How Does Solar Power Work?

Solar power works by capturing the energy from the sun to create clean sustainable power.
The sun's energy can be captured in two different ways, to produce either free electricity, or to create free hot water for use in your house. A different system is required for each method.

Solar Electricity (PV)

To produce electricity energy from the sun is captured using solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, which create an electric current when solar radiation falls on them. This DC current is fed to an inverter, which changes the DC current into the standard AC current which is used in the home. This is fed through a meter, which measures the amount of power generated, into the consumer unit (fuse box) for the house, allowing it to be used in the normal way.

Your energy provider will pay you for all the electricity generated, even if you use it yourself. Any electricity which is generated which is not required is fed back into the National Grid and is paid for by the energy supplier at an agreed tariff. If at any time more electricity is required than is being generated, this is drawn from the grid in the normal way, at your usual cost. At night, electricity is drawn from the grid in the normal way, so it makes sense to adjust usage to daylight hours wherever possible.

How much does it cost?

For standard installations the cost for Wickes Solar PV systems is shown below.

Solar panel array	System Output KW p	Selling Price inc. vat
3	0.71	£5,499.00
6	1.41	£7,999.00
8	1.88	£9,499.00
9	2.12	£9,999.00
10	2.35	£10,499.00
12	2.82	£12,499.00
14	3.29	£13,499.00
16	3.76	£15,499.00
18	4.23	£15,999.00

Because every system is designed for the property that it is installed on, depending on the size of the system, the layout of the roof and the connection of the system, additional costs for fitting may be required.

Before any work commences, you will receive a detailed quotation showing what is included. The money from the Feed in Tariff will help offset the cost of this, together with any additional monies from the export tariff and your offset fuel costs. Typically the costs of the system will be covered in approximately ten years. This gives a further 15 years of guaranteed income from the FiT, which will rise with the cost of living (RPI). As energy costs are also expected to rise your offset benefits should also rise. Over 25 years a typical 2.1KWp system should deliver nearly £20,000 profit.

How much can I save?

Feed In Tariffs.

In February 2010 the government announced new Feed In Tariffs ( FiTs) for the generation of electricity from microgeneration schemes, such as solar PV systems. These rates are guaranteed by the government for 25 years and will also rise with the cost of living. The amount payable is dependent on the power output of the installed system, as follows:

System Size	Feed in Tariff Rate, until April 2012
Up to 4 KW on a current property	41.3 pence per KWh
Up to 4 KW on a new build property under construction.	36.1 pence per KWh
Between 4 and 10 KW	36.1 pence per KWh
Above 10 KW	31.4 pence per KWh

The good news for householders is that the FiT is payable even if the electricity is used in the house. So if you are currently paying 13p per KWh for your electricity, then each KWh generated which you use is worth 54.3 pence ( 41.3 p plus 13 p = 54.3 p). If you do not use the electricity at the time, then your supplier will pay what is called an export tariff for all the electricity which goes back into the grid. This tariff is currently 3p per KWh. In this case, each KWh you generate is worth 44.3pence ( 41.3p plus 3 p= 44.3p).

To qualify for the FiT it is a requirement that all components and all installation meet the Micro-generation Scheme certificate standards, which the Wickes service does.

The current FiT rates are fixed until April 2012, after which the rate offered will decline each year. If you apply before then, you can lock into the current rates, which will also increase with the cost of living.( RPI)

- www.energysavingtrust.org.uk

How the Feed in Tariff can help save money.

A combination of the income that you receive from the FiT, the income from the export tariff and the saving made on the electricity purchased from your supplier, all contribute to offset the cost of the Solar PV installation. In fact, over the 25 year lifetime of the panels, you stand to make a considerable tax free profit from the generation of solar electricity. ( See the table below on how you can save). In addition you can contribute to a reduction in CO2 production by generating clean renewable electricity. Your house value may also increase, should you wish to move, as you have installed a valuable asset. Should you move, the new owner of your home can continue to claim the FiT.

System Array	Power output	System cost	Savings on electricity year 1 (50% used, 50% exported)	Cash back from FiT and export tariff. Year 1	Tax free profit over 25 years
6 PANELS	1.41 KWp	£7,999	£76.40	£512.96	£11,591.65
9 PANELS	2.12 KWp	£9.999	£114.88	£771.26	£19,456.44
12 PANELS	2.82 KWp	£12,499	£152.81	£1,025.92	£26,682.30
14 PANELS	3.29 KWp	£13,499	£178.28	£1196.90	£32,212.52

Pricing Example Table Explanation:

1. System Size (kWp) = The generation capacity of the system mesured in kilo watt peak.

2. System cost = Standardised cost for on-roof installations.

3. Savings on Electricity Bill (Year 1) = Savings assume half of the electricity produced by the system is used in the home. Savings on electricity bill due to reduced imported electricity following solar electricity system install, as of year 1. Savings will increase over the systems lifetime due to domestic electricity price rises.*

4. Tax Free Cash Back (Year 1) = Total income through the Feed-in-Tariff (Generation Tariff and Export tariff) following year 1 of install. Export is assumed at 50% of generated electricity.

5. Tax Free Profit (After 25 Years) = The sum of total tax free cash back plus savings on electricity bill after 25 years, taking into consideration inflation rise of 2.4%, solar electricity system decline in efficiency (losses each year of 0.5%) and electricity price rises of 5% per annum. Profit is effective following the payback period for the system's initial cost.

Please note:
* Savings assume half of the electricity produced by the system is used in the home. Energy output is assumed at UK average of 850 kWh for every 1 kWp installed. Domestic electricity costs for this example is set at 12.75 p/kWh. Location and angle of the system will affect the efficiency of the system. Under the rules no export meter is required, so customers are deemed to export 50% of electricity they generate in our examples. RPI is set at 2.4% and raises the tariff rates only. You may have to pay energy bills in winter, but benefit from large cash backs in the summer. These figures are for guidelines only and should not be relied upon

What is included?

The Wickes Solar Installations service is a complete service, using one of the UK's most experienced national installers The service is designed to provide the reassurance that you will get the most appropriate system for your needs, that your investment in your home will provide the expected benefits and that the product quality and installation service are what you expect. After you have applied for your site survey, everything is taken care of for you. Our service includes:

• Free, no obligation site survey, assessment and discussion of your requirements
• System design and quotation to your requirements. The quotation will detail everything which is included and will also highlight any costs outside the standard charge, for example, extra scaffolding, or additional wiring, or upgrades.
• Full terms and conditions will be provided with the quotation.
• System installation using MSC approved, guaranteed components
• Commission of the system and demonstration of how to use efficiently.
• Final payment on completion and to your satisfaction.
• Supply of Manufacturers guarantees.
• Supply of Installation guarantees.
• After care service

Wickes Solar Solutions is provided on behalf of Wickes by:
Mark Group is a family-owned international business which has been providing energy saving solutions to homes since 1974.
Each week Mark Group makes more than 6,000 homes more energy efficient, whilst maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.
Mark Group is an ISO 9001 quality assured company and a certified member of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) , the Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency (CIGA), The British Board of Agreement (BBA) and the National Insulation Association (NIA) - providing peace of mind for its customers.

System specifications & guarantees

Solar PV panels are made by Yingli, one of the largest manufacturers in the world.

The panels have a performance guarantee to produce at least 100% of stated output for 20 years and 80% of stated output for 25 years and a 5 year warranty.

The Inverters have a 5 year warranty and may need replacing during the lifetime of the system.

0.71kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 1 x row of 3 in portrait, Schletter mounting system and Mastervolt inverter

1.41kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 2 x row of 3 in portrait, Schletter mounting system and Fronius inverter

1.88kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 2 x row of 4 in portrait, Schletter mounting system and Fronius inverter

2.12kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 3 x row of 3 in portrait, Schletter mounting system and Fronius inverter

2.35kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 2 x row of 5 in portrait, Schletter mounting system and Fronius inverter

2.82kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 3 x row of 4 in portrait, Schletter mounting system and SMA inverter

3.29kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 2 x row of 7 in portrait, Schletter mounting system and SMA inverter

3.76kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 4 x row of 4 in landscape, Schletter mounting system and Fronius inverter

4.23kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 3 x row of 6 in portrait, Schletter mounting system and Fronius inverter

4.70kWp using Yingli 235W modules in 5 x row of 4 in landscape, Schletter mounting system and Fronius inverter

System installation includes

• PV modules. Complete Schletter mounting system for system sizes (set size and shape as A x modules in B x rows as stated)
• Inverter (Mastervolt/SMA/Fronius)
• Electrical kit including - DC isolator, AC isolator(s), generation meter, electrical schematic

The Supplier will provide the following where necessary:

• DC cable, AC cable, Warning labels.
• Any other consumables as required for standard installations such as fireproof board, conduit, trunking, fuse for distribution board, screws, cable clips, cabling, connectors etc.
• MSC certification will be provided.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Does solar power work in the British climate?

A. Yes, even in the British climate it should still be possible to produce up to 60 % of your hot water and up to 50% of your electricity per annum.

Q. What happens when it is not sunny?

A. PV systems only require daylight, so they will also work on cloudy days (although not as efficiently) and on cold sunny winter days. Solar Hot Water Systems require heat, not daylight to work and the panels are designed to be as efficient as possible in absorbing heat.

Q. What are the benefits of the Wickes Solar Power Service?

A. The Wickes Solar Power Service is a complete end to end service provided by the country's largest and most experienced installer and is fully guaranteed. There is a no obligation free site assessment and a system design service to meet your requirements. Installation is done at an agreed time and there is no payment until you have agreed the quotation. Final payment will be on completion to your satisfaction. You will be provided with all the necessary certification and guarantees to obtain the FiT payments with the reassurance of an after sales service.

Q. Is solar power suitable for my property?

A. Solar Power works best if you have south facing roof. Systems can be designed which will work if your house is on an east / west axis, but some additional costs may be involved. The roof should not be shaded by any tall buildings or overhanging trees at any time. Systems work best if the angle of the roof is between 30 to 40 degrees to the horizontal, but solutions may be possible for different angles to this. If you are interested in a Solar Hot Water system then you must have room to install the correct size of twin coil hot water cylinder. The roof must be sufficiently large and strong enough to support the required number of panels. When you contact the customer support telephone line ( freephone 0800 111 4964) you will be asked a number of questions to help establish if your property is suitable. The free no obligation site survey will allow any specific issues to be answered.

Q. Do I need planning permission?

A. Solar Panel installations fall under the designation of permitted developments and should not require planning permission, except for listed buildings, or in a conservation area, or National Park. We recommend that you should always contact your local planning department to check the requirements. If necessary, you should apply for permission before installation commences.

Q. Is the system guaranteed?

A. Each component carries a manufactures guarantee and the installation is also guaranteed by REIGA, to provide you with peace of mind.

Q. Will any maintenance or servicing be required?

A. In line with best MSC practice a health check should be undertaken every 2 years. Your installer can provide details.

Q. Will anyone need to come into my property?

A. During the site assessment the surveyor will need access to your property and to the roof space. They will need access to the loft and to your current consumer unit and/or hot water boiler. During installation access will be required to the roof and to the loft space and to make electrical and or plumbing connections. All installers will travel in vehicles clearly branded Mark Group and will carry identification cards, which you can request to see. The installers will require access for their vehicle to park close to the property. It is important that an adult is available at the premises to allow access.

Q. How long will it take?

A. Installations will take about 2 days, depending on the size and complexity of the installation. If you have a solar PV installation, it will be necessary to install scaffolding to give safe roof access and this will take about half a day, done in advance. During installation of Solar PV systems, it will be necessary to switch off the power for short periods.

Q. Will I need to do anything before or during installation?

A. If necessary , you should obtain planning consent prior to installation. Before the installers arrive you should carry out any works agreed with the surveyor. For example, clear your airing cupboard for your cylinder, or ensure the loft space is cleared and freely accessible. The installer will need to be able to park a vehicle close to the property and any space agreed for the scaffolding should also be cleared. During the install, the installers will not require anything as the will have all the equipment and tools required.

Q. Will there be a lot of mess?

A. The fully trained installers will keep any mess to a minimum. During installation, the panels will be mounted onto mounting frames, which will be securely fitted to the roof timbers, by lifting the necessary roof tiles, or slates. All of these will be correctly replaced . Any other mess caused during installation will be cleared, as they go, by the installers and any scaffolding will be removed and collected promptly.

Q. Will the system be tested after it is installed?

A. The installed system will be commissioned and tested by the installer and you will be shown how to operate it efficiently.

Q. When will I have to pay for my system?

A. You will asked for a deposit once you have received your quotation and then to pay 2/3rds of the total less your deposit, prior to work commencing. An invoice will be sent for the final balance once a satisfactory installation has been confirmed. Acceptable methods of payment are Credit card, Debit card, or cheque. A finance service is available, subject to certain conditions.

Q. How can I get the best from the system?

A. You will be shown how to operate your system and given full instructions. Solar PV systems are virtually maintenance free for the life of the system. Solar Hot water will need a routine health check every 2 years and further details on this are contained within the customer information pack left at the point of installation.

Q. Will I need to clean the panels?

A. The panels are made from a glass designed to be self cleaning. Panels should never be mounted under over hanging branches, or in other locations where debris may accumulate on the panels, or which shade them in any way.

Q. How do I obtain my FiT payments?

A. Once you have received your MCS certificate, you can contact your energy supplier to confirm that you are now eligible to receive FiT payments and to agree the generation and export tariffs.

Q. What happens if I produce more electricity than I need?

A. You will get paid for all the electricity that you produce, whether you use it in the home, or export it to the National Grid. In addition any electricity surplus to your requirements, which is exported back to the grid will attract your agreed offset tariff rate, currently this is an extra 3 pence per unit.

Q. Can I increase the size of my system at a later date?

A. If you have a large enough roof space, it should be possible to add more PV panels in the future, to create more electricity. However, as the Inverter is matched to the system, it will be necessary to upgrade this accordingly.

Q. What happens if I move house?

A. Your solar power installation is a valuable asset and should make your property more attractive to a purchaser. You will be able to pass your certification to the new purchaser, who will then be able to continue claiming the FiT payments.

Q. What happens during a power cut?

A. Solar PV systems continue to work, but have an automatic cut off to disconnect them from the grid to prevent electricity leaking back onto the grid and putting at risk anyone working to repair it. You will be shown how to switch your system back on.

Q. What happens if I need advice after the installation of my system?

A. The installer will provide details for the warranty and after care service in your information pack. If you have any questions, then you should call the customer service telephone number . Freephone 0800 111 4964

Q. What should I do if I have a question or technical issue which is not covered here?

A. If you have any questions, then you should call the customer service telephone number. Freephone 0800 111 4963

Q. Is this service available where I live?

A. This service is available in mainland Great Britain and the Isle of Wight. For more information please contact Mark Group directly on 0800 1114962.

Timeline for installation

The Wickes Solar Installation Service is designed to give you the best possible service and to work around your requirements. This is what you can expect:

• Within 3 days of your initial contact you will be contacted to follow up on your enquiry
• Within 7 days from your initial contact, your free of charge site survey should be booked
• Your survey should be completed in 21 days, or less. The survey will take approximately 1.5 hours.
• With 7 days of the survey and site assessment, you will receive detailed system plans, based on your requirements, together with a quotation for all works.
• Within 7 days of your order confirmation a date will be booked for your installation.
• Installation should be completed within a further 12 weeks. Installation should take about 2 days. Ideally this should be 2 consecutive days.
• After installation the system is commissioned and you will receive a customer information pack.
• Final payment is made on completion to your satisfaction.
• Within 2 weeks of installation, you may be contacted to arrange a free of charge system check.
• MSC certificates, REIGA Guarantee and Product guarantees will be sent to you directly.

For more information:

      or       Call Freephone 0800 111 4964

Government Incentive Schemes

As part of the government policy to encourage the use of renewable sustainable energy they have introduced an incentive to make it financially attractive to install Solar PV electrical systems. This is called the Feed-in Tariff (FiT). To find out more, visit The Energy Saving Trust Feed-in Tariff Guide.

The government has also proposed a scheme to support the installation of Solar Hot Water systems, but this is still under consultation. To find out more, visit The Energy Saving Trust Renewable Heat Incentive Guide.

How the Feed in Tariff can help save money.