Sun still shining on solar

 

Government changes to the amount of money that home owners receive from the power generated by solar panels fitted to their properties have clouded some people’s judgement, according to SkyEnergy, which is based in Four Crosses.

 

The company says the ruling has resulted in some mixed messaging for the industry which saw thousands of home owners rush to have solar panels placed on their roofs with the promise of more than 10% returns annually.

 

“It has been a turbulent year for the industry but the change in Feed-in Tariffs has been offset by the lower cost of installation so it still represents a very healthy investment with returns in excess of 6%,” said John McNicholas, from SkyEnergy.

 

“The initial rates provided were simply not sustainable. The industry has had to evolve quickly and we have introduced many new products and services to help people decide what is best for them.”

 

“SkyEnergy firmly believes that the changes made to the Feed-in Tariffs provide a strong, sustainable foundation for growth for the solar sector, providing the industry with longevity and certainty.”

 

“There are still two months left to install solar panels and receive around a 10% return on investment during the next 25 years before the new 16p Feed-in Tariff starts.”

 

Mr McNicholas also pointed out that there is a misconception that it needs to be sunny in order to cash in on solar.

 

“Many people think that solar panels require hot sunny weather. This is not the case with modern solar photovoltaic panels which can produce electricity in all weather conditions.”