Solar panels have been around for many decades, but it's only in recent years that their popularity has skyrocketed. With the growing concern for the environment and the need to reduce carbon emissions, solar panels have become a hot topic in the world of renewable energy. They are an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint, save money on energy bills, and support the transition to a cleaner energy future. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of solar panels and how the ECO scheme can help fund them.
1. Reduce Energy Bills
One of the biggest benefits of installing solar panels is that they can help you save money on your energy bills. Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, which can then be used to power your home. This means that you'll no longer have to rely on traditional energy sources, which can be expensive and contribute to climate change. Instead, you'll be able to produce your own clean, renewable energy, which can save you hundreds of pounds every year.
2. Reduce Carbon Emissions
Another benefit of solar panels is that they reduce carbon emissions. Traditional energy sources, such as coal, oil, and gas, release greenhouse gases when burned, which contribute to climate change. Solar panels, on the other hand, produce clean, renewable energy that does not release harmful emissions. This makes them an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and support the transition to a cleaner energy future.
3. Increase Home Value
Installing solar panels can also increase the value of your home. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, homes with solar panels sell faster and for more money than homes without. This is because solar panels are seen as a desirable feature by many home buyers, and they can help lower energy bills and reduce carbon emissions.
4. The ECO Scheme
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme is a government-led initiative designed to help reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty. The scheme requires energy companies to provide funding for energy-efficient measures, such as insulation and boilers, to low-income households. Solar panels are also eligible for funding under the ECO scheme, which means that you may be able to get financial support to install them. Direct Savings are an accredited installer under the scheme and can help you secure funding, simply fill in our contact form and one of our experts will get in touch.
The qualifying criteria for ECO4 are as follows:
Homeowner or Tenant Status: You must be a homeowner or tenant in a private or social rented property to qualify for ECO4 funding.
Income: You must be in receipt of certain means-tested benefits, such as income support, jobseeker's allowance, or tax credits.
Property Type: Your property must be a domestic property, i.e. a single household home.
Energy Efficiency: Your property must have a low energy efficiency rating, as measured by an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
It's worth noting that these are the general qualifying criteria for ECO4 funding, and there may be additional eligibility criteria specific to your energy supplier. If you're unsure whether you qualify for ECO4 funding, you can contact Direct Savings for more information.
In conclusion, solar panels offer numerous benefits, from reducing energy bills to reducing carbon emissions and increasing home value. The ECO scheme is also an excellent way to fund the installation of solar panels, making them more accessible to low-income households. By making the switch to solar energy, you'll not only save money, but you'll also be doing your part to support the transition to a cleaner energy future.