Most People Think Solar Panels are the Future of Home Improvement

Recently, we carried out a survey among UK homeowners to understand their views on home energy upgrades. Surprisingly, 63% of respondents expressed a preference for solar panels when considering renewable energy solutions for their homes. Coming in second place, ground source heat pumps garnered support from 25% of participants.

Hydro/biomass systems and domestic wind turbines were the least favored options, selected by only 6.1% and 5.2% respectively.

 

Changing Perspectives Amid Lockdowns

The UK's nationwide lockdowns, prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, have also influenced homeowners' willingness to make modifications to their properties. Nearly 40% of those surveyed stated that these lockdowns had altered their perspective on their homes, leading them to desire improvements. Interestingly, this shift in mindset was more pronounced than the seasonal cold, with only 29% citing winter weather as a motivating factor for making similar changes to enhance their homes’ energy efficiency.

The UK has experienced three national lockdowns so far – starting on March 23, 2020, followed by additional ones in November 2020 and January 2021. With more time spent at home during the day, people naturally became more conscious of their energy usage and costs. Advanced renewable technologies paired with decreasing costs have made sustainable home energy solutions increasingly attractive to homeowners.

 

Shifting Habits Due to the Pandemic

As many of us continue to work remotely, energy consumption and costs have become central concerns, particularly given the financial challenges faced by many households. Studies show that sleep patterns have shifted, pushing morning routines like using kitchen appliances later in the day.

Data collected from tens of thousands of smart meters, as reported by Sky News, indicates a noticeable uptick in energy usage during afternoons compared to mornings, a time when most individuals would typically be at work. Notably, London saw a substantial rise in electricity consumption, likely due to more residents working from home. However, during periods of enforced lockdowns, energy usage dipped as people ventured outside before returning under stricter restrictions.

It remains unclear whether these habits will revert once the pandemic subsides or how swiftly—if ever—we will return to pre-pandemic norms. For now, energy consumption continues to be a focal point as people explore sustainable alternatives.

 

Solar Panels Boost Property Value by £32,459

According to research by Effectivehome.co.uk, installing solar panels in a residential property has boosted UK property values by an average of £32,459. Published in August 2020, this study strengthens the case for homeowners to adopt solar technology, including solar panels and batteries, at their homes.

This significant increase stems directly from the long-term savings homeowners enjoy post-installation—up to £27,500 saved on electricity bills over a 30-year span!

 

Benefits of Solar Panels

There are numerous reasons to install solar panels at your home. These include:

• Enhancing your home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
• Reducing your carbon footprint.
• Combating global warming.
• Ensuring energy security for your family.
• Becoming your own clean, green power station.

 

First developed in the mid-1950s and introduced domestically in the mid-1970s, solar panel technology in 2021 provides a reliable and financially sound method to boost energy efficiency and save money over the long term.

Additionally, with over 73,000 terawatts of solar energy striking the Earth daily from the sun—more than 10,000 times the world’s total energy usage—the argument for accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels becomes increasingly compelling.

 

Fun Facts About Solar Energy

• Did you know solar panels are more efficient in cooler climates and still generate power even on cloudy days? This often alleviates concerns for UK residents considering investment.
• Did you know Associated British Ports is the UK’s most solar-committed commercial entity? Marks and Spencer, Amazon, Aviva, and Facebook round out the top five.
• Did you know the Eiffel Tower features solar panels? There’s even a floating solar farm in the UK. Check out our article on quirky solar farms.

 

Boost Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Are you considering enhancing your home’s energy efficiency with solar panels? Contact Project Solar today and take the first step toward a greener future.

Our team comprises highly skilled installers and an award-winning customer service department. We uphold the highest standards of quality throughout every project.

Still Undecided? Explore our 2021 guide to home improvement here.