Are you solar ready? Let's find out!

 

I know I often talk about renewable energy and preparing for the future but this topic is really important and should be at the forefront of our minds, especially if we have the means to implement some of these techniques.  Unfortunately not everyone is currently in the position to do so, but if you are, where should you start? One of the simplest ways to improve your home and benefit from eco living is to provide solar panels. These can be fitted to existing properties as well as be integrated into a new build.  Your home, whether it's an existing build or new build will need to meet certain criteria in order to work with the solar energy system.  You will have to think about things like the location of the building and whether or not it receives enough sunlight, where the sun rises and where the panels would be best placed. If you're thinking of enhancing your home then you really need to make sure that you have the optimal positioning for your new system.  A solar energy system takes all of its energy from the sun, so it goes without saying that you must ensure that your build isn't surrounded by shade; tall trees, tall buildings etc. These systems can be excellent and really enhance your property as well as reduce your energy bills and if something is worth doing, its worth doing right.  There are a few places where you can fit your solar energy system; the most popular is to install the panels on your roof. If this is your preferred option then you really need to think about the structure and material of your roof and if it has the strength to withhold the weight of the panels. Houses that were built without these systems obviously didn't have to factor in this extra weight. If you're building from scratch then this is something you will need to consider.  There are other ways to install a solar energy system.  Some people opt to put the panels on the ground and this works well if you have a large outside space which has little shade. There is also the option of solar tiles, so there are plenty of ideas to suit various needs. You just need to work out what suits you, your property and your budget most.  You will have to think about where to place the rest of the equipment as there is obviously a lot more to your solar energy system than just the panels. You will need  to know how the panels are going to be fitted, where the electrical conduits are to be placed and where you will position the inverter and safety equipment so it can be integrated seamlessly into your design.  You will also have to decide whether you want an uninterrupted electricity supply or whether you will need to be able to store your electricity.  A lot of these answers can be based upon how big your house is, what you use electricity for and what you might need from it in the future. It is important to consider your future in this home; the last thing you want is to install a solar energy system that works for now but that isn't fit for years to come.  There are a few things to consider when thinking about any type of update to your home. Remember, improvements are not just about getting things done right for the present but they must be able to withstand any future additions and extensions.