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Energy supplier releases details on the UK’s cheapest fixed tariff

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Utility Warehouse introduces the ‘Fixed Saver 7’ energy plan, presenting customers with the opportunity to secure their energy costs at £1,775 until November 2024, which is £59 less than the current October price cap, making it the most affordable fixed energy tariff in the UK.

Utility Warehouse (UW) has introduced a comprehensive three-service tariff called ‘Fixed Saver 7,’ assuring customers that their energy bills will remain steady at £1,775 until November 2024. This offer notably comes in at £59 below the current October price cap.

To access this offer, customers are required to choose energy and switch at least two of their existing mobile, broadband, or insurance services to UW. Furthermore, new customers who subscribe to a UW bundle through a UW Partner can enjoy an extra £50 reduction on their UW utility bill, according to the company.

For those who prefer flexibility, UW provides the ‘Fixed 7’ tariff, allowing customers to lock in their energy costs at £1,900 until November 2024 with the requirement of choosing energy and just one other service from UW.

Claiming the title of the UK’s most affordable open market fixed energy tariff, the ‘Fixed Saver 7’ tariff outperforms the price cap projected for January.

Stuart Burnett, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Utility Warehouse, commented, “Despite the price cap decreasing, we recognize that energy costs remain volatile, and there are expectations of a price cap increase in January.”

Rooftop Solar Power in the UK is at an all time high

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New data reveals that the UK has achieved a remarkable surge in rooftop solar power installations in 2023, surpassing the total installations for the entire preceding year, setting new records in solar energy uptake.

In 2023, the United Kingdom has witnessed a substantial surge in rooftop solar power installations, surpassing the total installations for the entire year of 2022, as per data from MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme).

The statistics reveal that a total of 138,336 solar photovoltaic installations have been registered since December, slightly surpassing the 137,926 recorded during the previous year. These statistics specifically pertain to installations with a capacity of 50kW and below, typically found on residential buildings, schools, and small businesses. A typical domestic installation usually boasts a capacity of around 4kW.

The current trajectory suggests that the UK may exceed the all-time installation record of 203,120, established during the peak of the Feed-in Tariffs regime in 2011. This government scheme was discontinued at the end of 2019, with the rationale that it had effectively achieved its goal of reducing photovoltaic energy costs.

The rapid growth in solar installations is underscored by the fact that over half of the capacity installed over the past four and a half years has been added in the last 13 months.

Ian Rippin, Chief Executive of MCS, remarked, “Small-scale solar provides home and business owners with energy independence and security against ever-increasing electricity costs. There is still more work to be done to make the transition to low carbon technology even easier for UK consumers, but 2023 is already the most successful year in our history for solar installations on the roofs of homes and businesses.”

Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, stated, “The reasons behind the extraordinary pace of rooftop solar deployment are simple. Power from the grid remains expensive, whereas solar is cheap, paying back in a handful of years in most circumstances. It’s one of the best investments that home and small business owners can make. Coupled with growing concern over climate change and record temperatures around the world, it’s no wonder that so many people have taken the plunge to decarbonize.”

The Benefits of Energy-Saving Installations for UK Homes

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UK Homeowners

The United Kingdom is embarking on a transformative journey towards sustainable living. At the forefront of this change are energy-saving installations. A major player in the industry, Save Energy UK, sheds light on how UK homeowners can benefit from these revolutionary systems. In this article, we explore the myriad advantages of energy-saving installations, specifically the solar panels that are quickly becoming a staple in homes across Bournemouth and the rest of the country.

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Cost-Efficiency in the Long Run

There’s an adage: “You have to spend money to save money.” The initial investment in solar panels may appear significant, but when you break down the numbers, the savings are substantial. With the ever-rising energy costs in the UK, having a solar panel installation can drastically reduce electricity bills. Over time, as you generate your own power, the cost per unit becomes far less than what energy providers charge.

Boost to Property Value

Properties that have energy-saving installations, particularly solar panels, tend to have a higher market value. With the growing demand for sustainable homes in areas such as Bournemouth, houses with solar installations are a prime catch. Potential buyers appreciate the fact that these homes offer long-term energy savings. Furthermore, a solar installer from Save Energy UK ensures a professional set-up, further elevating the property’s appeal.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

One of the most compelling reasons for many homeowners to switch to solar panels in Bournemouth and across the UK is the environmental impact. Solar panels produce clean, green energy, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For every household that opts for solar energy, we move one step closer to a greener, more sustainable planet.

Independence from Grid Fluctuations

The energy grid is prone to fluctuations and outages. However, with solar batteries, UK homes can store excess energy generated during sunny days. This stored energy acts as a backup during cloudy days or peak consumption hours, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply. The combination of solar panels and solar batteries provides homeowners a certain level of energy independence.

Government Incentives

The UK government recognises the importance of renewable energy sources and offers various incentives and schemes. Homeowners who invest in solar panel installations and other energy-saving services can avail of tax rebates, grants, and feed-in tariffs. These incentives significantly offset the initial installation costs, making it even more appealing for homeowners.

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Technology Advancements

The solar technology landscape is continually evolving. Companies like Save Energy UK are at the forefront, bringing in state-of-the-art solar panels and batteries to the market. These technological advancements ensure better energy capture, more efficient storage, and overall improved energy-saving services for UK households.

The UK is embarking on a transformative journey towards sustainable living. At the forefront of this change are energy-saving installations.

The Science Behind Photovoltaic Cells and Solar Panels

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PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS

Harnessing the boundless energy of the sun has always been an aspiration for humankind. With the dire need to shift towards more sustainable energy sources, this aspiration has quickly turned into a reality. But how exactly do solar panels convert sunlight into electricity? Welcome to the wondrous world of photovoltaic cells.

The Basics of Photovoltaic Cells:

A photovoltaic (PV) cell, or solar cell, is a device that converts sunlight directly into electricity by a process called the photovoltaic effect. At its core, a PV cell is made up of semiconductor materials, typically silicon, which have properties allowing them to absorb sunlight and release electrons.

When photons (light particles) from the sun strike these semiconductor materials, they can release electrons from their atoms. Once these electrons are free, they can be directed and captured as electric current, effectively generating electricity.

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How a Solar Panel is Structured:

A solar panel or photovoltaic module is not merely one cell but a combination of many cells connected together. This assembly ensures that a significant amount of electricity can be generated. Here’s a basic breakdown:

  • Front and Back Layers: These are typically made of glass or clear plastic, offering protection without obstructing sunlight.
  • PV Cells: They’re arranged in a grid pattern, capturing sunlight and turning it into electricity.
  • Back Sheet and Frame: Offering structural support and protection against various weather conditions.

Converting Sunlight into Electricity:

  • Absorption: The first step in the solar panel installation process starts with ensuring optimal sunlight absorption. As sunlight hits the PV cell, the energy of the absorbed photons is transferred to electrons in the semiconductor material.
  • Creation of Electron-Hole Pairs: When these electrons gain enough energy, they break free from their normal position in the atoms to become a part of an electric current. This leaves behind what we call “holes”.

The Role of Save Energy UK:

If you’re looking to leverage the science of solar panels to your advantage, choosing the right solar installer is crucial. Save Energy UK has a distinguished reputation as a leading solar panel installation company. With keywords such as “solar panel installation near me” or “solar panels Poole”, you’re likely to come across this trusted name.

For businesses looking to make a larger environmental impact, seeking “commercial solar panel installers” will also lead you to Save Energy UK, offering solutions tailored to large-scale energy needs

Beyond Solar Panels: The Solar Storage Battery:

The sun doesn’t shine all the time, so how do you ensure a steady power supply even during the night or cloudy days? Enter the solar storage battery. This technology allows you to store excess energy generated during sunny days to be used when sunlight is scarce.

Save Energy UK recognises the importance of this technology and incorporates it into their solutions, ensuring that users get the most out of their solar panel installations. So, alongside generating power, storing it efficiently is also a crucial aspect to consider.

Solar in Poole and Beyond:

For residents in Poole and surrounding areas, the move to solar energy has never been easier. With dedicated services like “solar panels Poole”, Save Energy UK ensures localised solutions tailored to specific needs. Such dedicated services make solar panel installation a seamless experience, no matter where you are.

Conclusion

The science behind photovoltaic cells and solar panels is not just fascinating but offers a promising solution to the world’s growing energy needs. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business, solar solutions offer a sustainable and efficient way to save energy and reduce carbon footprints.

As you consider embarking on this renewable journey, remember to opt for professionals who not only understand the science but also the art of installation. With companies like Save Energy UK, you can be assured of top-notch solar panel installations, bringing the power of the sun right to your doorstep.

Shell Energy purchased by Octopus

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Octopus Energy is on track to ascend as the UK’s second-largest home energy supplier, following an agreement to purchase Shell’s domestic electricity and gas operations in the UK.

Octopus Energy is gearing up to become the UK’s second-largest residential energy supplier by taking over Shell’s domestic electricity and gas unit, expanding its customer base significantly.

The acquisition will result in Octopus providing energy services to 6.5 million homes, incorporating the 1.4 million customers currently with Shell Energy.

Octopus Energy’s recent growth has been largely fuelled by taking on customers from defunct energy companies, such as Avro and Bulb.

Industry analysts emphasize the importance of a competitive market for sustaining high levels of service quality and affordable pricing.

Natalie Mathie, an energy specialist at Uswitch, voiced concern over Shell Energy’s exit, citing its position as a viable competitor to larger market players.

Mathie remarked, “It’s unfortunate that Shell Energy is leaving the market; they’ve been a significant contender against larger energy companies. Maintaining robust competition is crucial for the industry’s long-term health, ensuring that providers continue to offer excellent service and competitive prices.”

Emily Seymour, Energy Editor at Which?, reassured Shell Energy customers saying, “Those currently with Shell Energy may have concerns about what the transition to a new provider means for them. There’s no cause for alarm—your utilities won’t be disrupted and your existing credit is secure. Typically, the customer transition process lasts a few weeks, and you’ll be informed by your new provider about the details of your new plan, payment arrangements, and any credit refunds.”

Consumers are encouraged to record meter readings, monitor any existing credit, and refrain from changing suppliers during the switch to ensure a seamless transition and proper credit settlement.

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Energy bills may soar to over £2,000 once again

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A report suggests that the expected January 1st price cap could drive annual energy bills up to £2,083.

According to recent projections by Investec, an asset management firm, annual energy bills may soon exceed £2,000 once more in the upcoming year. This expectation arises from the forthcoming energy price cap set to take effect on January 1st, which is anticipated to elevate the average cost of gas and electricity to £2,083. This would constitute an 8% increase compared to the current cap level.

Earlier, Cornwall Insight consultancy had predicted that the January price cap would likely rise to around £2,000 from its October level. Currently, the October cap is set at £1,923, representing the first time it has fallen below the £2,000 mark since last summer.

The exact amount of the January price cap has yet to be finalised and will be announced later this year.

If you would like to discuss this article or anything to do with your energy bills and how we can save you money, please get in touch with us now.

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To learn more about how we can work with you to supply solar panels, battery storage or insulation for your project, fill out this form and we’ll be in touch as soon as we can.

EV drivers save £1000 with solar

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The only smart solution for EV owners is a solar-compatible EV charger.

myenergi, manufacturer of the oft considered numero uno solar EV charger zappi, has called for UK households to seriously consider installing EV chargers that integrate with solar generation, to maximise future savings.

“While there are a number of excellent products available to specify, we believe that consumers should be thinking about the future. Charging your EV with mains electricity is typical today, but with decentralised domestic energy generation becoming ever-more commonplace across the UK, drivers should specify a device compatible with renewables to prevent buying twice,” said head of corporate communications at myenergi, Tom Callo.

“At myenergi, we believe that any EV driver who either has solar panels – or has the opportunity to install them in the future – should invest in a solar-compatible charger. With ongoing concerns around the rising cost of energy, taking advantage of solar power to keep costs down has become a hugely desirable option.

“Any EV driver installing a non-compatible device may come to regret their choice, as they will need to replace it if they choose to invest in renewables. Car manufacturers and leasing companies that are recommending non-solar chargers should therefore be making it clear that these chargers will not necessarily be future-proof for many.”

Find out more about the solar-compatible Zappi EV solution we offer.

Talk to us about the solar-compatible Zappi EV charger that we can install for you today!

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To learn more about how we can work with you to supply solar panels, battery storage or insulation for your project, fill out this form and we’ll be in touch as soon as we can.

EV drivers could face £1,000 replacement fee by failing to use solar compatible charger

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News source: https://www.current-news.co.uk/

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers may be costing themselves £1,000 in the long run by failing to install solar-compatible chargepoints, home tech manufacturer myenergi has warned.

As domestic solar installation rates continue to rise – rates in 2022 tripled to those in 2021 – myenergi has called for UK households to seriously consider installing EV chargers that integrate with solar generation, to maximise future savings.

“While there are a number of excellent products available to specify, we believe that consumers should be thinking about the future. Charging your EV with mains electricity is typical today, but with decentralised domestic energy generation becoming ever-more commonplace across the UK, drivers should specify a device compatible with renewables to prevent buying twice,” said head of corporate communications at myenergi, Tom Callo.

“At myenergi, we believe that any EV driver who either has solar panels – or has the opportunity to install them in the future – should invest in a solar-compatible charger. With ongoing concerns around the rising cost of energy, taking advantage of solar power to keep costs down has become a hugely desirable option.

“Any EV driver installing a non-compatible device may come to regret their choice, as they will need to replace it if they choose to invest in renewables. Car manufacturers and leasing companies that are recommending non-solar chargers should therefore be making it clear that these chargers will not necessarily be future-proof for many.”

Increasing the use of solar generated electricity to power EV chargepoints helps to tackle concerns surrounding energy supply for EVs and is bolstering support for solar’s integration into this market.

Find out more about the solar-compatible Zappi EV solution we offer.

Talk to Save Energy today about your solar-compatible Zappi EV installation.

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To learn more about how we can work with you to supply solar panels, battery storage or insulation for your project, fill out this form and we’ll be in touch as soon as we can.

Brits Set to Face Another Increase in Energy Bills

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Money guru Martin Lewis has issued a warning today regarding the government’s Energy Price Guarantee. This comes as we are all in the midst of cold and damp winter conditions.

The Energy Price Guarantee, which is currently capped at £2,500, is now set to increase in April to £3,000. The result of this will mean that, on average, people will spend more per unit of gas and electricity.

Many households are finding the constant increase in the cost of living unsustainable and are starting to consider more cost effective methods of sourcing energy into their homes.

One positive route is to consider installing a solar panel system for your home. Leading Dorset based solar installer, Save Energy have been at the forefront of clean energy for 17 years and have helped hundreds of households in the Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch and the surrounding areas to shrink their energy bills, whilst also making huge reductions on their carbon footprint.

On average our customers save up to £1,000 a year with a Save Energy solar system.

We pride ourselves on good products, good prices and good backup service. Find out how much you can save on your energy bills today!

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To learn more about how we can work with you to supply solar panels, battery storage or insulation for your project, fill out this form and we’ll be in touch as soon as we can.

Hydrogen-Producing Solar Panels Nearly Ready for Commercial Market

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Belgian researchers from KU Leuven have created a hydrogen panel that uses solar energy to convert water vapour into hydrogen gas. The panel was created as part of the Solhyd project, a long-term project intended to make green hydrogen accessible to everyone around the world.

The researchers claim the panels have an efficiency of 15%, meaning they can produce 250 litres of hydrogen a day. The panels are currently being developed from a prototype into a commercial product.

What is a hydrogen panel?

A hydrogen panel is a type of solar panel that uses sunlight to separate water molecules and produce hydrogen gas. They work much like electrical solar panels, but are connected via gas tubes rather than an electric cable.

Hydrogen panels are made up of a spongy material with a hygroscopic fluid. This liquid absorbs water molecules from the air, which are then split into hydrogen and oxygen gas via electrolysis.

hydrogen graphic

What is the potential of hydrogen panels?

The researchers claim their panels can convert ambient moisture into 99% pure hydrogen gas, working in areas with as little as 4% relative humidity. The panels would allow zero-carbon hydrogen to be produced even in regions where water on land is scarce.

Dr Gang Kevin Li, the study’s lead author, said that a prototype produced hydrogen for more than 12 consecutive days in a monitored trial: “[For] one of them, we left it to run by itself for eight months.”

When will hydrogen panels be ready for commercial use?

Although the prototypes are still small in size, the team plans to create 1 sq metre and 10 sq metres units in the coming year. They hope to scale up production to 5,000 panels a year by 2026.

The panels have been designed to plug directly into most commercial modern PV modules, so they can benefit from the ongoing developments and cost reductions in the solar PV industry.

The team are aiming to keep hydrogen panels affordable by using only non-precious materials. When they achieve mass production, they predict the price will be close to that of conventional solar panels on sale today.

Looking into a solar system for your home or business? Save Energy UK are a well-established Dorset-based business with over 400 positive reviews on Checkatrade. Whether you require solar panels or solar battery storage, our team can help! Book a consultation online or call us on 01202 986262 to get started!

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