http://www.yougen.co.uk/ YouGen Blog, latest 20 items Thu, 17 May 2012 07:28:26 +0000 en http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1906/Solar+PV+remains+one+of+the+best+investments+around+say+trade+bodies/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1906/Solar+PV+remains+one+of+the+best+investments+around+say+trade+bodies/ Wed, 16 May 2012 08:40:01 +0000
The outline the following facts about solar power a[...]]]>
The outline the following facts about solar power and the feed-in tariff:
-         Costs have fallen more rapidly in solar over the past 12 months than any other energy technology.
-         With investment today mainstream analysts expect solar power to be cheaper than buying electricity off the grid before the end of the decade, saving all consumers money in future.
 -         A 4kWp system, the largest size for which the highest tariff is available, can be purchased today for under £9,000, whereas only one year ago it would have cost upwards of £15,000.  An average domestic system is around 2.5kWp.
-         Solar does have a bright future in the UK. It is an exciting and popular technology. Tariffs will reduce over time in line with these significant cost reductions, with the industry keen to keep rates of return roughly within the same target range.
-         Solar PV continues to offer very attractive returns in comparison to other investment options available to consumers.
-         50% of UK housing stock already meets the energy efficiency requirement for the higher tariff, so if your home has decent insulation, it’s highly likely to be eligible today.
-         For those homes that don’t yet meet the EPC-D, the Government’s Carbon Emissions Reduction Target scheme places an obligation on energy providers to subsidise domestic energy efficiency measures, up to 100% of the cost in the case of low income households.

Reza Shaybani, chairman of the British Photovoltaic Association, comments:
“Around a quarter of the UK’s aging power generation capacity is due to close over the coming decade. We must cut our dependency to fossil fuel which we have no control over its security of supply or price. Solar PV can offer the clean, affordable and secure energy that we need for the future of the United Kingdom. We see investing in clean and green energy as a national duty.”



Dave Sowden, chief executive of the Micropower Council, comments:
“Solar PV still offers attractive returns for consumers, in excess of many alternative investment products. Improving consumer understanding of solar PV and the Feed-in Tariff scheme is likely to be key to restoring healthy uptake levels. We are pleased that the policy framework is now on a more stable footing and are optimistic that this will signal a new dawn of consumer confidence in the microgeneration sector.”

Gaynor Hartnell, chief executive of the Renewable Energy Association, comments:
“With gas and electricity prices on the rise yet again, returns for today's investors in solar power are likely to be better than expected.  By the end of this decade, solar energy costs are expected to fall to the point where it costs the same to generate your own power as it does to buy it from the grid. A technology with this potential is bound to transform our energy future.”

Paul Barwell, chief executive of the Solar Trade Association, comments:
“There is no financial explanation for the low installation levels we’re currently seeing. The main reason seems to be a lack of clear information for the public – an informational deficit which industry is today seeking to redress.”



]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1891/Solar+PV+Installers+can+benefit+twice+if+they+invest+in+training+to+be+a+Domestic+Energy+Assessor-|/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1891/Solar+PV+Installers+can+benefit+twice+if+they+invest+in+training+to+be+a+Domestic+Energy+Assessor-|/ Mon, 14 May 2012 09:40:01 +0000

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirement for feed-in tariffs came into force on 1 April. To claim the full rate of feed-in tariff owners of systems installed after this date must prove that the building they are mounted on or wired to meet the EPC band D or above st[...]]]>

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirement for feed-in tariffs came into force on 1 April. To claim the full rate of feed-in tariff owners of systems installed after this date must prove that the building they are mounted on or wired to meet the EPC band D or above standard.


This banding is measured after the Solar PV has been installed and, in some instances, the installation of solar PV will take the property from a lower band into band D. If it does not, other measures will need to be taken before applying for the feed-in tariff.


If a feed-in tariff application is submitted showing an EPC below band D, the owner will receive a generation rate of just 9p/kWh. If the property is band D or above then the householder will receive the full 21p/kWh (for a system of 4kWp and below).


The most important thing to go through with the end user, when applying for the feed-in tariff now is to send in the final EPC certificate with the application. If the application is sent with an EPC showing that the property is below band D, the consumer will not receive the higher rate of feed-in tariff, even if they subsequently submit an improved EPC following home improvements. Therefore, if a customer is are thinking of making energy efficiency improvements to their property, they should wait until all the work is complete before making their Feed in Tariff application.


From October this year, the Green Deal will offer householders loans linked to energy savings, to finance home improvements such as cavity wall insulation, double glazing and Solar PV. This gives Solar PV installers a double incentive to qualify as domestic energy assessors. Not only will they be able to undertake EPCs for feed-in tariff customers, but following a Green Deal upgrade course, they will be able to apply to be Green Deal Advisors.


Green Deal Advisors will assess properties to determine the most appropriate energy efficiency improvements which will then be installed by the Green Deal Installer. By undertaking your training now you can ensure you are at the front of the pack when it comes to the Green Deal.


Photo by VoxPhoto


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1853/How+to+choose+a+tumble+dryer'3A+vented+or+condenser'3F/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1853/How+to+choose+a+tumble+dryer'3A+vented+or+condenser'3F/ Fri, 11 May 2012 09:21:01 +0000 OK, we know the most energy efficient way to dry our clothes is outdoors, but modern lifestyles don’t always allow for this, and a tumble dryer, for a busy family, is often seen as a necessity. But should you choose a vented or a condenser tumble dryer? And what else should you look for?


Vented machines have those wiggly hoses that take the damp air produced by the drying process outside, so you are restricted where you can put them. You either have to put a[...]]]> OK, we know the most energy efficient way to dry our clothes is outdoors, but modern lifestyles don’t always allow for this, and a tumble dryer, for a busy family, is often seen as a necessity. But should you choose a vented or a condenser tumble dryer? And what else should you look for?


Vented machines have those wiggly hoses that take the damp air produced by the drying process outside, so you are restricted where you can put them. You either have to put a large hole in an outside wall, or dangle the hose attractively out of an open window. Vented machines are often cheaper to buy than condenser models and sometimes cost less to run. Not all machines come with a venting kit, so check this out before you buy.



The bonus of a condenser tumble dryer, is that they don’t need venting so can be put in almost any well-ventilated spot. They work by converting the moist air into water, diverting it to a tank, which is then emptied. However, a full water reservoir can weigh up to 6kg! They have improved in energy efficiency in recent years and now condenser models rank top on sust-it. But that doesn’t mean all models cost less to run, and you may need to pay a bit more for a decent appliance.


Energy efficiency


A tumble dryer can be one of the most energy-guzzling appliances in our homes, with some appliances having an average running cost of over £150 per year. All machines are given an energy and drying performance grading of A-G, A being the most efficient.


You can help cut down on energy use by not overloading and drying similar fabrics together. Also look for appliances that have a sensor that turns off the heater when clothes are dry.

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1902/How+to+choose+the+best+low+energy+lighting/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1902/How+to+choose+the+best+low+energy+lighting/ Wed, 09 May 2012 09:14:01 +0000

A 100 watt incandescent bulb needed 100 watts of electricity to light it. As a result it was brighter than a 40 watt bulb. To get the best low energy lighting, we need to know more. The goal is to get the right brightness, for the lowest energy[...]]]>

A 100 watt incandescent bulb needed 100 watts of electricity to light it. As a result it was brighter than a 40 watt bulb. To get the best low energy lighting, we need to know more. The goal is to get the right brightness, for the lowest energy use. So this is a guide to the measures you need to be aware of when you buy low energy lights.



Brightness:

Lumens are a measure of the light given out by a lamp. The higher the lumens, the brighter the lamp. A traditional 40 watt bulb gave out around 450 lumens. As a general guide:
Incandescent lamps give out 10-12 lumens per watt
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) give out 50-60 lum/w
Light emitting diodes (LED) give out fomr 40-90 lum/w



Colour temperature:

The colour of light is measured in degrees Kelvin. The colour is what results in us perceiving light as warm or cold; harsh or soft. Cold light will have more blue in it and warm white has more yellow.
Daylight is 5,000 Kelvin
Cool white is 4,200k
Warm white is 2,700k
In the UK, most lamps are between 2,700k and 3,500k.


There is another colour measurement, the colour rendering index or CRI. This measures the quality of a light source compared with sunlight. Sunlight is given the maximum CRI value of 100. The closer a lamp is to that, the better its ability to show true colours. This is important in art galleries and shops, but is not critical for optimal light levels in homes. Lamps for domestic use can have a CRI level as low as 60 (which means they are less expensive to produce and buy).



Energy use:

On the packaging this is measured in two ways. There will be a number of watts. This tells you how many watts are needed to power the lamp. The lower the number, the better for your purse. There will also be an energy rating, where A is the best, and G is the worst.


See also this blog about comparative costs of lighting



Photo: tp24.com


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1905/Comparing+light+bulbs'3A+upfront+costs+vs+running+costs/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1905/Comparing+light+bulbs'3A+upfront+costs+vs+running+costs/ Tue, 08 May 2012 09:10:01 +0000

I didn't, until I visited the tp24 stand at Ecobuild this year. What would you guess? Twice as much? Five times? Ten times more expensive? Well double it. Yes, the cost of lighting your house with halogens is twenty times as much per year a[...]]]>

I didn't, until I visited the tp24 stand at Ecobuild this year. What would you guess? Twice as much? Five times? Ten times more expensive? Well double it. Yes, the cost of lighting your house with halogens is twenty times as much per year as the cost of lighting it with LEDs.



The difference is not as great with CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) but it is still four and a half times cheaper.


There are three elements to take into account when you do these calculations. The upfront cost of the bulb; the cost of the electricity used to run it; and the life of the bulb. Incandescent and halogen lamps are much the cheapest to buy, but they fall down on everything else.


TP24 did its calculations based on a typical modern kitchen which would have 5 halogen lights. It compared the costs of these with the equivalent CFLs and LEDs. Its figures are based on the lights being on for 8 hours a day, 7 days a week for a year. I suspect that most of us don't have them on that much, but if you do the figures may prompt you to turn them off more!


The annual amount added to your electricity bill for running those five lamps would be £95.37 for halogen, £20.98 for CFL and £4.77 for LED. Add to that the fact that LEDs last for 20,000 hours, CFLs for 10,000 hours and halogens for just 1,000 hours and changing them rises speedily up the priority list.


The upfront costs for LEDs and CFLs are more: £9.95 for 5 halogen lamps; £24.96 for CFL and £34.92 for LED. But even at these prices, you're saving money six months after you've bought them. Click on the table above to enlarge it and see all the figures.



LEDs are increasing in performance at an incredible rate. Two years ago you could get 25-30 lumens per watt. Now they are generating between 65 and 100 lumens per watt. You may want to test one bulb to make sure you're happy with the light it gives before investing in large quantities. You can buy lamps that plug straight into the halogen fittings.



The one complication is if you have your existing halogens or incandescent bulbs on a dimmer switch. You can get dimmable LEDs, but they cost much more (between £20 and £45 each compared with £7 to £9 for standard LEDs). Alternatively you could get an electrician to change the switch to a simple on/off one.


See also how to choose the best low energy lights.


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1831/Switch+energy+supplier+to+get+the+best+deal/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1831/Switch+energy+supplier+to+get+the+best+deal/ Fri, 04 May 2012 09:31:01 +0000

The good news is that most people who haven't switched supplier can save a lot. Switchers averaged £237 saving a year for a dual fuel account. And it's much easier than you think. There are lots of "switching" websites around, and you can move your account at the click of a button.


We recommend Which? Switch* because we like its independence, and that it is owned by the Consumers Association. It's also accredited by Consumer Focus. We also like the knowledge that it enables you to make choices that are based on more than price. If you want your electricity to be renewable, or if you are interested in finding out about service ratings of the various suppliers, Which? Switch* can help.



Bills have been rising at an extraordinary rate over the past decade. Households analysed** for the Committee on Climate Change last year found average bills rose by £455 between 2004 and 2010. Of this around £290 was due to increase in wholesale gas prices. Around £30 was to support investment in low carbon generation, and £45 for energy efficiency improvements in homes.


To minimise your energy bill pain, make sure that you're not spending over the odds. Click here* to check whether you are getting the best rates.



*This is an affiliate link. If you switch having clicked this link we will get a small commission which contributes to the costs of running this website.Renewable energy subsidies are often blamed for the significant upward trend in household energy bills over the past five years. But it's not true. The real cause is the increased cost of wholesale gas. 



**The 21 million that have dual fuel energy bills.


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1903/Rumours+of+solar+PVs+death+have+been+greatly+exaggerated/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1903/Rumours+of+solar+PVs+death+have+been+greatly+exaggerated/ Wed, 02 May 2012 09:26:01 +0000

It has been suggested in the press and by some in our industry that the recent cuts will kill the industry. Some said a 50 per cent cut to the feed-in tariff (FIT) would kill the industry back in December 2011, but, as I suspected[...]]]>

It has been suggested in the press and by some in our industry that the recent cuts will kill the industry. Some said a 50 per cent cut to the feed-in tariff (FIT) would kill the industry back in December 2011, but, as I suspected, this did not materialise. Unfortunately the suggestion that the cuts would kill off the industry is what has dominated the press coverage.


So is this why do customers not seem to be placing orders?


The first reason is because customers are confused by the conflicting information that is being peddled about. They may also be fed up with the constant changes and tinkering by the Government.


But, to put the situation in context, the FIT scheme was always meant to be temporary to support a new fledgling industry. It was always designed to be reduced in line with costs.


The fact is the current rate of 21p works. As an industry we need to focus on reassuring the public that solar still provides great returns. The current tariff of 21p/kWh for domestic schemes is producing a sound annual return of up to 10%; thanks to the reduction in PV component prices - which is still guaranteed for 25 years and linked to inflation.


That is equivalent to the return we could provide a year ago when people were queuing up to buy solar PV systems! We just need to ensure that the costs and benefits stay in line going forward.


Secondly customers believe that the EPC requirements will make a solar energy system prohibitive. To put customer’s minds at rest we have now installed quite a few systems following an EPC. This EPC can be organised in days and, in more cases than not, simply comes up with a ‘D’ result following the installation of the solar PV system or a few simple measures. These could be a temperature thermostat on the hot water cylinder, thermostatic valves on the radiators, or loft insulation. Most buildings (domestic and commercial) pass without fuss.


So we need to be positive and extol the huge benefits of PV because we recognise that we have a great technology that has delivered astonishing cost reductions in recent months and years – and will continue to do so.


Photo by Allan Henderson


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1893/New+MCS+heat+pump+standard+should+improve+performance/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1893/New+MCS+heat+pump+standard+should+improve+performance/ Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:11:01 +0000

Snappily titled “MIS3005 v3.1a”, the new standard affects all new heat pump systems since 1 March 2012 and is here to ensure consistently high performance for domestic and light commercial applications by introducing more detailed rules for the way heat pump systems are designed.
[...]]]>

Snappily titled “MIS3005 v3.1a”, the new standard affects all new heat pump systems since 1 March 2012 and is here to ensure consistently high performance for domestic and light commercial applications by introducing more detailed rules for the way heat pump systems are designed.


In truth the changes represent the “best practice” levels that any responsible installer should have been working to in the past anyway, but with these rules now clearly defined within MCS it means that customers should be able more easily compare quotes between one supplier and another and be confident that proposals are designed to a common standard.


So what are the changes? The standard introduces a number of steps which must now be followed:


1.    An accurate heat loss calculation must be produced, to prevent the system being “under sized” and running inefficiently.


2.    A new “100% sizing rule” means heat pumps must be capable of meeting the full heating load down to a specified minimum outside temperature without the use of supplementary electric heaters. This is especially important for the sizing and selection of air source heat pumps - where the output reduces as the air temperature drops - to prevent high running costs by over reliance on electric back up heating.


3.    Where the heat pump provides domestic hot water, the cylinder must be sized correctly for the number of occupants and have a suitably sized heat exchange coil for use with the lower water temperatures heat pumps produce.


4.    Selection and sizing of heat emitters (eg radiators, fan convectors, underfloor heating) needs to demonstrate that they can meet the heat losses of each room at the water temperature the system is being designed for.  A new “Temperature Star Rating” also allows you to see how efficient the proposed system will actually be and what could be done to improve it.  A handy Heat Emitter Guide (clicking this link will download a pdf to your computer) has been produced to help installers and customers with this.


5.    System efficiency performance calculations are now a requirement of all installer quotes and these must be produced using a standard format and calculation method to explain to customers the expected system efficiency and running costs.


6.    For ground source heat pump systems a new guide has been produced for the sizing of ground collectors, which installers must demonstrate they are adhering to, preventing danger of undersized and inefficient ground loops or boreholes.


Ultimately the purpose of MCS is to provide protection to the consumer and the tightening up of the design and installation standards for heat pumps can only help with this, leading to systems that perform well and are as efficient as possible.
So if you’re about to install a heat pump, make sure you use an MCS installer and ask him about MIS3005!


Photo by Bryn Pinzgauer


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1899/Readers+tips+of+the+month+-+April+2012/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1899/Readers+tips+of+the+month+-+April+2012/ Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:10:01 +0000
Chemeng says: "Our
PV system has reduced our annual grid electricity usage by about a
third, following also replacing our windows and doors with A-rated
glazing using argon fill, soft spacers and Planibel coating.

"Our annual gas [...]]]>
Chemeng says: "Our
PV system has reduced our annual grid electricity usage by about a
third, following also replacing our windows and doors with A-rated
glazing using argon fill, soft spacers and Planibel coating.

"Our annual gas usage has fallen by 40% after replacing the system
boiler with a Viessman 200W with modulating burner and weather
compensation and eliminating use of a single wall thermostat. Use of
radiator thermostatic valves gives room by room temperature control and a
much more even temperature throughout the house."

Roger20 advises: "Get an inverter that offers Bluetooth communication with a PC/laptop." (If you like data this is ideal - you can manipulate it to your heart's content.)

He adds: "Go for a panel manufacturer that will be around in 25 years time! Look carefully at T&Cs - particularly warranty/deposit protection. Be aware that the inverter will possibly/probably need to be replaced within the 25 year feed-in tariff period.

David Burton reports a noticeable improvement in temperature from
cavity wall insulation. He also points out that light tunnels are very good for providing natural
light where there are no windows.

Photo by Bryn Pitzgauer
]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1894/Wattson+Solar+Plus+helps+me+to+get+the+most+out+of+my+solar+PV/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1894/Wattson+Solar+Plus+helps+me+to+get+the+most+out+of+my+solar+PV/ Thu, 26 Apr 2012 07:45:01 +0000

Of course, this isn't always possible. If you want to relax in front of the telly in the evening, the sun's probably gone down already. Similarly for boiling a kettle of water after your evening meal. But, if you're at home and flexible, there are things that you can do to maximise your return[...]]]>

Of course, this isn't always possible. If you want to relax in front of the telly in the evening, the sun's probably gone down already. Similarly for boiling a kettle of water after your evening meal. But, if you're at home and flexible, there are things that you can do to maximise your return.


If your inverter is in the loft, or the garage it's not convenient to keep popping out for a look. This is why I've been testing an energy monitor that tells you what your panels are doing.


The Wattson Solar Plus* measures both the energy produced by your solar panels and the energy used in your home or business. It displays the results using colours and numbers, so you can use either or both according to your preference.


If you are generating more electricity than you are using - net export - you can see at a glance as the unit glows green (or the box displays a negative number). A blue light indicates that you're using less than average, purple equals average, and if you're using more than average it throws out a bright red glow.



I've found it fascinating. Whenever the usage goes up a notch I start wondering what's on - especially when it goes into the red. I've learned that our so-called Eco Kettle gobbles up a lot of kWs. But the biggest surprise was how much the oven uses, and how often we use it. Having always been rather suspicious of microwaves, I'm suddenly becoming a convert.


The washing machine isn't as greedy as I expected, and on a sunny day, there are only brief periods when it's using more electricity than we're generating, where I'd expected it to be a heavy user for the whole cycle.


Mostly my Wattson sits in the kitchen, as it's from there that I notice most of the big energy uses. However, you can pick it up and take it from room to room, so you can see the impact of turning lights or the TV on and off.


Once you've got it set up it's really simple to use, but I found it quite difficult to set up. There's a clear picture of which cables you put all the clips round, but my cables had all been neatly hidden away in some trunking by my installer. Luckily an electrician friend called round while I was busy scratching my head about it, otherwise I'd have been stuck (he clipped them around cables on the other side of the fuse box, but without his help I wouldn't have been able to tell them apart).



For those of you who are keen on spreadsheets and like lots of figures, you can upload data from the Wattson to your computer using special Holmes software. I'm still getting used to this and will review it in a separate blog in a few weeks time.


*This is an affiliate link, which means that we get a small commission if you click through and buy the Wattson Solar Plus.





]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1898/The+feed-in+tariff+is+still+alive+'26+paying+out+-+so+why+do+so+many+people+believe+it'27s+finished'3F/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1898/The+feed-in+tariff+is+still+alive+'26+paying+out+-+so+why+do+so+many+people+believe+it'27s+finished'3F/ Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:42:01 +0000


This couldn't be further from the truth. Read yesterday's blog post to find out that while returns don't quite meet the highs of the goldrush at the the end of last year, there are still excellent returns to be [...]]]>


This couldn't be further from the truth. Read yesterday's blog post to find out that while returns don't quite meet the highs of the goldrush at the the end of last year, there are still excellent returns to be made: they are way higher the government's target - and way higher than you'll get from the bank.


So what is the word on the street? Yesterday I was speaking to someone who had been planning to install solar PV on his house in earlier this year. The various legal challenges led to it being on, then off, on, off - and he gave up. Until we spoke he thought that the feed-in tariff had ended on 1 April.


I also spoke to an installer earlier this week, whose mother-in-law - an educated woman working in the media - was convinced that it had ended. And this is despite having a specialist in the family.


Another installer was exhibiting at an event I attended last week. It was full of green activists. Yet they too thought that the feed-in tariff had ended.



The challenge now is to debunk the myth and let people know that the feed-in tariff is still open for business; still generous (until the end of June, when the rate of return will reduce); that prices are lower than they have ever been; and installers are waiting for their phones to ring.


So now is the time to check out your local YouGen members, see what their previous customers have to say about them, and give three of them a ring and invite them round to survey your property and give you a quote. Just click here to get started.


Photo by Jaydee


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1896/The+feed-in+tariff+still+offers+good+rates+of+return+-+so+why+have+solar+PV+installations+dried+up'3F/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1896/The+feed-in+tariff+still+offers+good+rates+of+return+-+so+why+have+solar+PV+installations+dried+up'3F/ Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:02:01 +0000

In this time five companies have resigned their YouGen membership - two going into liquidation, one ceased trading, one changing direction. Others find that the phone isn't ringing. One company I spoke to this week says they have had no enquiries for the past two weeks - before that the [...]]]>

In this time five companies have resigned their YouGen membership - two going into liquidation, one ceased trading, one changing direction. Others find that the phone isn't ringing. One company I spoke to this week says they have had no enquiries for the past two weeks - before that the phone was ringing "all the time". Another reports enquiries have dropped from an average 50 a week to just 11. A third is snowed under with CVs from people being laid off by both small and large companies.


This is truly bizarre, because at 21p generation tariff for installations up to and including 4kWp solar PV is still a really attractive proposition. I installed solar PV in the early days of the feed-in tariff, and because costs have fallen radically since then, people installing today can get a better return on investment than I did back then.


The trouble seems to be that people think that the feed-in tariff ended on the first of April . That is not true. It's still there. It still gives rates of return much higher than you'll get from a bank. And the capital costs of installation have more or less halved, making it accessible to more people.


To illustrate that I'd like to compare what you get today with my installation - which was done right at the beginning of the feed-in tariff. I have a 2.1kW system, predicted to generate 1,672kWh (although it actually produces more, so for ease of rounding I'll use 1,700 in the calculations below).


Cost of installation: £9,000 (this included panels at cost, so most people installing then paid more)
Annual output: 1,700 kWh
Feed-in tariff generation rate @41.3p/kWh: £702.10
Used in the home: 850 kWh
Savings from electricity bill @12p/kWh: £102
Exported: 850 kWh
Income from export @3p/kWh: £25.50
Total return: £829.60
Return on investment: 9.2%


Now you can get a 4kWp system for less than I paid for my 2.1kW system. So here are the same calculations run again for a bigger system.


Cost of installation: £8,500
Annual output: 3,400 kWh
Feed-in tariff generation rate @21p/kWh: £714
Used in the home: 1,700 kWh
Savings from electricity bill @14p/kWh: £238
Exported: 850 kWh
Income from export @3p/kWh: £51
Total return: £1003
Return on investment: 11.8%


These calculations are very rough guides only, as they do not allow for any maintenance costs, and do not annualise or levelise the capital expenditure. Click here to see the Department of Energy and Climate Change's method of calculating rate of return.


The assumption on generation is based on a SAP calculation for Sheffield, and is an under estimate many systems. The electricity cost of the first example is based on prices in early 2010, and the second is based on prices now. Both workings assume that you use half of what is generated, and export the rest. This is probably not the case, and most domestic installations are likely to export more than half. However, commercial installations with heavy daytime on-site electricity use will bet a better rate of return as they will use more than half, and save more on their electricity costs.


Even so, these calculations demonstrate that solar PV is still attractive, and as electricity prices continue to rise, it will become more attractive, so why have enquiries ground to a halt?


Since 1 April, the government has introduced a requirement for all buildings to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of level D or above to claim the feed-in tariff. For many people this shouldn't put them off, as about half the housing stock already meets the criterion, and for many others it is easily achievable - the solar PV counts towards the improvement.


So there is a two month window of opportunity to still get solar PV before the rates reduce again. It's not as attractive as it was pre 12 December last year when the returns were getting on for silly money, but it's still a good insurance against the steadily increasing energy prices.


Don't leave it until the last two weeks of June to ring an installer. They've proved that they are good at reacting to deadlines, but if you leave it too late, they may have laid off their staff. Click here to find a recommended solar PV installer near you.

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1892/Take+time+out+from+your+day+to+be+inspired/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1892/Take+time+out+from+your+day+to+be+inspired/ Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:34:01 +0000

Martin Luther King didn't say "I have a nightmare" pointed out N[...]]]>

Martin Luther King didn't say "I have a nightmare" pointed out Nic Marks, of the New Economics Foundation in his talk about the Happy Planet Index. He's so right. And spending a day hearing about other people's dreams - and what they are doing to make them come true is thoroughly uplifting.


Satish Kumar took it further, quoting Ghandi, he advised that we should "be the change we want to see in the world". He introduced an new trinity for our time: soil, soul and society. He argued that the soil is nature's bank, and an apple seed will give a better return than HSBC - pointing out that when you pick an apple, the tree will never ask you for your Visa card.


His theme of putting nature at the centre of things was also key to Tony Juniper's talk: what has nature ever done for us? He called for the economy to be seen as a wholly owned subsidiary of ecology, rather than dominate all decisions as it does now.


This was a theme which would be returned to later when Nic Marks attacked the way economics measures success. Quoting Robert Kennedy he said "Gross National Product measures everything except that which makes life worthwhile".


Tony Juniper has a dream too. It's that a natural history GCSE is introduced as a compulsory part of the curriculum, and to recognise that humans are at the centre of it - not outside.


Peter Cox, a climate scientist at Exeter University, outlined how there were some quick wins in slowing climate change, if we focus on reducing methane emissions instead of carbon dioxide in the short term. 40% of these escape from landfill and traditional power stations, and could be prevented. Dealing with this would give us 10 more years to deal with reducing carbon dioxide emissions he said.


We returned to the theme of the importance of ecology at the end of the day when Polly Higgins spoke about her dream of introducing a law of ecocide as the 5th crime against peace. We should prioritise people and planet above profit, she said. But currently it is the law that companies must put profit first. A law of ecocide would supercede that.



This is just a snapshot of some of the talks. They will all be loaded to the TED website in due course, should you want to be inspired too. But I will leave you with the one that is most relevant to the theme of this blog: William Kamkwamba from Malawi spoke about how he harnessed the wind. Watch and be inspired:







Photo: TEDxExeter


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1890/Retrofit+of+Victorian+terrace+house+reduces+energy+bills+by+89'25/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1890/Retrofit+of+Victorian+terrace+house+reduces+energy+bills+by+89'25/ Fri, 20 Apr 2012 07:38:01 +0000

Due to planning restrictions in the local conservation area, the exterior of the house had to be kept unchanged in appearance. As such, all insulation was applied internally on floors, walls
and ceilings, with floor joists re[...]]]>

Due to planning restrictions in the local conservation area, the exterior of the house had to be kept unchanged in appearance. As such, all insulation was applied internally on floors, walls
and ceilings, with floor joists rehung to avoid penetration of the insulation. The renovation works were used as an opportunity to redecorate the interior, remedy structural defects in the fabric and extend the house at ground and third floor levels. 
















Special features


- Ground-to-air heat exchanger below existing basement floor
- Integrated solar thermal system for hot water, backed up by air-source heat pump
- Exhaust-air heat pump inside ventilation system for all space heating
- Green roof
- Specially designed triple-glazed sash imitation windows for conservation area
- Thermal bridges cut off by extensive detailing and rehanging of floors


Metered energy use for the first six months of occupation was 1.78MWh (including space heating, DHW, auxiliary and household electricity). Projected forwards, this gives an annual energy consumption of approximately 5.35MWh, or a saving of 89% against the most recent metered energy consumption from the house before the
renovation works.


The values above correspond to a PassivHouse specific primary energy demand of 54.8kWh/m2a. This is well below the predicted energy consumption, despite the presence of a baby and young child (and hence very intensive use of the washing machine). Close monitoring of the house continues.


The user experiences are overwhelmingly positive and the owner describes the house as a “fabulous living environment… exceptionally comfortable”.

]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1889/New+feed-in+tariff+rate+from+July+'22probably+won'27t+be+13p'22/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1889/New+feed-in+tariff+rate+from+July+'22probably+won'27t+be+13p'22/ Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:15:01 +0000
This refers to the lowest of the three tariff rate options that DECC is now consulting on, which would ma[...]]]>
This refers to the lowest of the three tariff rate options that DECC is now consulting on, which would mark a significant cut from the current 21p rate of generation tariff for installations of 4kW or less from 1 July 2012. However, before you start skipping for joy, she added: "the most difficult thing for us is to pull out as much deployment as we can, as cheaply as possible, so final tariffs will probably be disappointing for industry."

Design of a degression system (how the feed-in tariff rates will decrease over time in relation to reductions in costs) was a key feature of the 2A consultation. Solomon-Williams reported that estimated costs of solar PV installation have fallen by 50% since the start of the scheme. However, predicting future cost reductions is not easy, so DECC is aiming to design a degression scheme that copes with the uncertainty.

Contributors from the audience agreed with respondents to the consultation that the estimates for future cost reductions outlined in the consultation document are ambitiously low. Solomon-Williams assured them that this is a message that DECC is getting loud and clear.

One of the proposals was to have regular six monthly degression with the option of a fast track degression if installations were much higher than anticipated in any period. "Feedback on the fast track degression was pretty negative," said Solomon-Williams. "A fixed time is more important than a a fixed amount."

As a result, DECC is looking at the possibility of having three levels for each degression point, dependent on deployment a month or two before. It also is looking at more frequent degression points, and will "definitely improve the way it does data publication".

Asked if FIT tariff rates would rise if costs of installation rose, Solomon-Williams said "I don't think it will work if we increase levels, but we may be able to offer no degression, and people will have to wait for prices to come down again." However, she added that skipping a degression is "a difficult one for ministers".

Solomon-Williams also  fed back on responses to other parts of the 2A consultation as follows:


People are OK about reducing the length of the solar PV feed-in tariff from 25 to 20 years 
Respondents like that the tariff is index-linked and want to keep that
Indications are that the export tariff should be higher, which is won't affect the generation tariff as it is funded differently, so this is a win-win.
]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1829/Prices+of+solar+PV+and+other+renewable+energy+vary+significantly'3A+always+get+three+quotes/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1829/Prices+of+solar+PV+and+other+renewable+energy+vary+significantly'3A+always+get+three+quotes/ Mon, 16 Apr 2012 09:32:01 +0000

It made sense, so it's something I just do now as a habit. So I was really surprised to find out that nearly half of the people who were cold called or doorstepped by solar PV installers chose the company that appr[...]]]>

It made sense, so it's something I just do now as a habit. So I was really surprised to find out that nearly half of the people who were cold called or doorstepped by solar PV installers chose the company that approached them to install their system*. I was even more taken aback to find many of them (70 per cent) didn't even bother to get a second quote.


The prices and quality of service for microgeneration vary significantly from installer to installer, so our advice is:



1. Get at least three quotes.


2. Ask friends or family for recommendations (and search the YouGen directory for installers recommended by previous customers).


3. Check that the company really is MCS certified.


4. Don't sign a contract on the day (If they offer you incentives to do so they may be breaking the REAL Assurance Scheme code).


5. If it feels like pressure selling, it is. Show them the door.



The research found that people who chose an installer who approached them speculatively are significantly less likely to be satisfied than those who did not (84 per cent satisfied compared to 95 per cent satisfied**). So, to be safe, do your research and seek out installers with a good reputation.



*Source: Green Deal: Cold Calling by Consumer Focus ** Keeping FIT, also from Consumer Focus



Photo: supermac1961


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1834/A+cautionary+tale+of+a+heat+pump+gone+wrong/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1834/A+cautionary+tale+of+a+heat+pump+gone+wrong/ Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:06:01 +0000

"So in 2009 we engaged a specialist company to evaluate the most appropriate system. They carried out what we assumed to be, at the time, a comprehensive survey and recommended a ground-sour[...]]]>

"So in 2009 we engaged a specialist company to evaluate the most appropriate system. They carried out what we assumed to be, at the time, a comprehensive survey and recommended a ground-source heat pump.

"What they failed to include were calculations relating to the electricity supply, which is relayed via underground cable some 440 metres from the meter. Over such a distance, this results in a voltage reduction.

"From enquiries made subsequently to several other suppliers, we’ve learned that they all evaluate the adequacy of the electricity supply as an integral part of initial surveys. This wasn’t done for us. At the time we hadn’t realised the importance of this: had we done so an alternative to this heating system would have been chosen. The installers refuse to accept any responsibility for omitting this essential element from their preliminary survey.

"As a result, far from the automatic system we expected, we have to monitor the heat pump daily. Tripping-out is frequent, sometimes requiring re-programming of the machine twice a day.


Anyone considering installing a mains operated heat pump on remote sites should therefore beware, lest they find themselves in a similarly expensive white elephant situation with little chance of remediation."


Appropriately installed, heat pumps can work well, but as the Energy Saving Trust found in its field trials, not all installations come up to scratch. Click the link to read our 12 tips for people thinking of installing a heat pump.



]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1851/Energy+efficiency+of+TVs+rises+by+60'25/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1851/Energy+efficiency+of+TVs+rises+by+60'25/ Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:02:01 +0000

The good news is that our research shows that TVs are now, on average, 60 per cent more efficient than they were five years ago. In 2006 a 42 inch[...]]]>

The good news is that our research shows that TVs are now, on average, 60 per cent more efficient than they were five years ago. In 2006 a 42 inch Plasma could have cost you £78.80 per year to run (at today’s prices). Now, thanks to public awareness and advances in technology, a similar model uses nearly six times less energy, produces 264.90 kg less carbon and costs only £13.76 to run per year.

We compared the running costs of 1,800 televisions and found that between October 2006 and July 2011, the average amount of energy flat screen TVs use has decreased and, in addition, the decrease in stand-by consumption is nearly 100 per cent.  This is good news for the environment, as TVs account for around 6-8% of the global domestic electricity usage, and for consumers' electricity bills.


While we welcome the stunning reduction in energy consumption of TVs, consumers need to be wary of old energy-hungry plasma models. They have become easier to spot since energy labels for TV’s become mandatory last December 2011. But my advice is go for an LED model.


Photo by rockcreek


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1886/Help'3A+I'27m+getting+conflicting+advice+about+split+aspect+solar+PV+and+inverters/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1886/Help'3A+I'27m+getting+conflicting+advice+about+split+aspect+solar+PV+and+inverters/ Tue, 10 Apr 2012 09:01:01 +0000

A: First, you won't get rid of your power bill unless you invest in a bank of ba[...]]]>

A: First, you won't get rid of your power bill unless you invest in a bank of batteries to store the power you generate for use when the sun is not shining and at night. Unless you live somewhere really remote and off grid, this does not make sense for most people. I'd be quite suspicious of anyone who told you that you would.


The system works so that when the sun is shining, you use the electricity generated by your panels, and any excess is exported to the grid and used by your neighbours. At night (and on cloudy days) you will continue to buy electricity from the grid.


The trick to getting the best out of your solar panels (or any other form of microgeneration) is to use as much of the solar electricity that you generate as possible, so that you don't have to buy as much from the grid. To do this, make sure that you do discretionary things like run the washing machine or Hoovering when the sun is out and the panels are generating.


As far as the inverters are concerned, there are three options for a split aspect system: A single inverter with two separate maximum power point tracking inputs; two separate inverters or micro inverters fitted on each solar panel. Click the links above to read more about each of them.


The third thing you need to consider is that by adding a 3kW system you will put yourself in the next bracket for the feed-in tariff, and will get a lower rate of feed-in tariff as a result. New installations of solar of 4kW or less will get 21p per kW, but because yours will be calculated to be 5kW in total, you will get 16.8p per kW on the new 3KW system. The export rate will be 3.1p per kW on both.


With a bit more knowledge under your belt, you may want to get a couple more installers round to quote. You can find local solar installers in our directory, and read what their existing customers have to say about their professionalism and customer service.


]]> http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1885/Feed-in+tariff+eligibility+dates'3A+make+sure+you+get+your+application+in+on+time/ http://www.yougen.co.uk/blog-entry/1885/Feed-in+tariff+eligibility+dates'3A+make+sure+you+get+your+application+in+on+time/ Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:01:01 +0000

I hoped and expected that the Government would lose this case and had solar panels installed on 25 February. The MCS Installer Certificate was issued on 27 February and I received it on 29 February. I submitted an applicati[...]]]>

I hoped and expected that the Government would lose this case and had solar panels installed on 25 February. The MCS Installer Certificate was issued on 27 February and I received it on 29 February. I submitted an application to my energy supplier (EDF Energy) but have been told by them that, as they did not receive my application by 2 March, I am only entitled to the lower rate of 21p.


Surely this cannot be right? The panels were installed seven days before 3 March. Clearly, as I had the certificate on 29 February, I could have used a guaranteed special delivery service or even hand-delivered the application to ensure that they received it before 3 March. The difference in the tariffs over 25 years is likely to be in the region of £15,000. What, if anything can be done?


A: I'm sorry to say that, while this seems horribly unfair, it is how the rules work. The key is what's called the eligibility date, which is "the later of the commissioning date or the application date". The application date is when all the paperwork is received by your feed-in tariff supplier.


I am very surprised that your installer did not tell you this, given that your installation was so close to the cut off date. As you say, you then could have used guaranteed delivery, or taken it round yourself.


I think that your installer should have made it clear that you needed to get the paperwork in before the deadline. However, I don't know if they can be held legally liable. They are members of the REAL Assurance Scheme, so it might be worth complaining to them. Also to NICEIC which is the body that accredited your installer for the MCS. Do let me know how you get on. 


Photo by Elliot Brown


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