By reducing their dependence on the National Grid, Mr Kinch says that households could benefit not only the environment but other households by helping to bring prices down.
Switchd, and MakeMyHouseGreen uses smart data to calculate savings made by green technologies. Kinch says on average, 40-50 percent of the electricity used to supply the UK is generated by gas, citing one day in August as an example of how people are missing out on generating their own energy and cutting bills.
“On Wednesday 10 August at 12:50pm, 43 percent of electricity was generated using gas” Mr Kinch said. “Only 24 percent was generated from industrial solar. This was despite the Met Office reporting clear sun for all of the UK except the northern parts of Scotland. Even without the environment in mind, soaring gas prices should incentivise households to get solar - the more they generate themselves, the less they have to depend on gas.”
In 2021 home solar panels produced 3GW of electricity in 2021, this is expected to increase dramatically this year.
Finding ways to cut energy costs has become an imperative for many in the UK struggling with the cost of living.
One recent forecast predicts the energy price cap could rise to a massive £4,266 from January 2023. A small solar system of eight panel could cost £5,500, with savings of £749 a year, but individual factors will influence these figures.
While those lucky enough to afford solar panels are able to take control over their energy generation, even those without sufficient funds can benefit.
“By reducing their personal demand on the National Grid, households reduce overall demand, which lowers prices for everyone” Kinch added. “This means households aren’t just helping themselves, they’re helping other families too.”
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