Solar Panel Grants

Want to increase the value of your home, cut your energy costs by 50%, and reduce greenhouse gases and your dependence on fossil fuels? Get Solar Panel Grants! The sun transmits more energy to the earth's surface in one hour than humans use in an entire year, but at present we don't make the most of this free and abundant resource.

Don't dismiss solar panels out of turn as too expensive, there are solar panel grants out there, particularly in the United States, and the UK (Sustainable Energy Ireland is an excellent resource). When you consider the benefits, it is well worth your time and energy to pursue solar panel grants and tax incentives.

Before searching for solar panel grants, it is crucial to decide the type of solar energy you are pursuing. There are two main types of solar collectors: solar water heating a photovoltaic’s (PV). This is important, because the type of solar collector will affect the type of solar panel grants you will be eligible for.

As the name suggests, solar water heating heats up water for use around your house (for bathing, washing laundry, dishwashers, etc.). The old solar panel technology heated an antifreeze mixture which then was used to heat your water, but the new standard is to directly heat the water you use. This direct heating is more eco-friendly and energy efficient.

Direct water heating evacuated tubes can often be used with your existing water heater and there are no moving parts so there is little to no maintenance involved. In most cases, evacuated tubes can provide for a family of 4-5 people. The tubes simply heat up the hot water and return it to your hot water tank. This type of solar energy can work in winter months and cloudy days too, as long as you have good southern exposure.

There are many good websites out there that can connect you with professional installers in your area. There are also do-it-yourself kits available for ambitious homeowners desiring to switch to solar water heating. But please check with your government before installing panels yourself, because in some areas (the UK for instance) receiving solar panel grants is contingent on getting professional installation.

Photovoltaic's generates electricity (rather than just heating your water) from solar energy. It is more costly to install and is often seen on larger buildings and offices, although it's becoming more common to find PV panels on regular households. PV requires only daylight, not direct sunlight to generate electricity, so it can still power your appliances and lights on cloudy days.

Photovoltaic systems use cells to convert sunlight into electricity. The PV cell consists of one or two layers of semi-conducting material, usually silicone. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers causing electricity to flow. The greater the intensity of light, the greater the electricity. PV cells are referred to in terms of the amount of energy they generate in full sunlight, known as kilowatt peak or kWp.

To be eligible for a PV solar panel grant, you will need to use a certified installer and products. You may also want to look into a solar panel grant to reinforce your roof as PV solar panels are not light and the roof must be strong enough to withstand their weight.