DIY solar panels for home use

In this section you will find additional information on how to buy and install your own solar panels. You may choose to install home- made panels or panels  bought from a shop.Before you attempt to install any home energy generation technologies, it is essential to minimise your energy demand by ensuring your home is fully insulated, and using energy efficient lighting and appliances.  These are the most cost effective ways of reducing your energy use. 

The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) is responsible for statistical data in respect of the monthly, quarterly and annual production and consumption of coal, electricity, gas, oil and total energy. These allow trends to be monitored, as well as providing a detailed and comprehensive picture of energy production and consumption in recent years. Annual energy consumption statistical data in total, and by the transport, domestic, industrial and service sectors are also collected. These include an analysis of the factors driving the changes in energy consumption, the impact of increasing activity, increased efficiency, and structural change in the economy.

The Government has introduced Feed-in Tariff to encourage people to generate their own low carbon energy. How Feed-in Tariff works: You could be paid for every kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity you generate from a renewable source - even if you use it. Additionally you will also get paid extra for the electricity you don't use as it will be fed into the National Grid. Feed-in Tariff means you could be paid for at least the next 20 years for the electricity you generate from a renewable source (25 years for solar photovoltaic (PV) panels).

And remember, any payments are in addition to the savings you'll make by not having to buy all your electricity from your supplier.

The gas and electricity regulator Ofgem have produced a guide on the feed-in tariffs
Do you want to know what your carbon footprint really looks like? Try out the Energy Saving Trust  carbon cutter to find out. You'll also get a personalised action plan to help you do your bit to fight climate change. Have your energy bills, annual mileage and miles per gallon (if you drive) to hand and you�re sure to get a more accurate carbon footprint, based on your lifestyle. The carbon cutter uses the official data and carbon factors used in the ACT ON CO2 Calculator to give you your carbon footprint based on your lifestyle.

The National Energy Foundation campaigns to reduce their carbon emissions and counter climate change through energy efficiency and the use of sustainable energy sources. Click here for their guide on solar energy.

The consumer publication  Which have produced a helpful guide for buying solar panels.

Frequently Asked Solar Questions/ Definitions/ Terminology

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