Solar Energy
Home Renewables Team
REAP’s Solar Project
Our project runs from April 2011 and aims to supply and install competitively priced solar panel systems to homes and community buildings throughout the Moray region plus Nairn and Huntly. This will displace on average 950kgs of CO2 per installation annually and increase the usage of renewable energy – while saving money for local consumers
We have already conducted over 90 free solar surveys throughout the area.
Why choose REAP solar panels for hot water or electricity generation?
- Our project is a registered charity and social enterprise and is impartial and unbiassed – no hard sell
- Our solar thermal panels are built locally in Forres by AES Solar , Scotland’s only and long standing manufacturer of solar panels. They are MCS accredited
- Our panels are often cheaper than the competition
- Free survey to determine whether you roof or site is suitable for solar technologies
The benefits of solar energy
Solar thermal panels, sited on a south or near south facing, unshaded roof can deliver 90-100% of your hot water needs in summer and around 50% of your needs over the year. Those who benefit most are those with families and with high daytime and early evening hot water use. You need to have space for the slightly larger water tank required for a solar thermal system. Our surveyors will help you decide whether your house is suitable during our free surveys. If you decide to install, you may be eligible for a Renewable Heat Premium Payment and/or the new Renewable Heat Incentive in 2012 . See www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland for more information.
Solar photovoltaic panels, situated on a suitable roof or site, produce electricity from the sun and newer ones are efficient at generating even in non-direct sunlight. If you use electricity throughout the daytime you will save more on your electricity bills by installing panels over the 25 year lifetime of the panels, though the amounts generated are unlikely to replace more than a fifth of your electricity consumption. Our panels are eligible for the Feed in Tariffs which can help you pay back the initial outlay in around 11 years. Over the 25 year lifetime of the panels, a typical array can make you £11,000 – £13,000.
See www.cat.org.uk for details about solar thermal (hot water) and solar photovoltaic panels
Advice on Energy Efficiency Measures
Our staff are all trained in energy efficiency advice as well as solar surveys and can help you to access grants, advise on insulation, heating systems and other home energy measures, so feel free to ask them when they come out to do your solar survey. If you would prefer to talk directly to our insulation team, please contact them on insulation@reapscotland.org.uk. If you are involved with a community building or project that may require energy advice or help in deciding on renewable technologies, please contact our community buildings officer on ann@reapscotland.org.uk
For more information please fill in the contact form. Thank you.
Newsletter Subscription