Solar Energy in Devon: The Facts

Devon enjoys some of the best solar potential in the UK. But is the investment worthwhile? Let's examine the real figures.

Solar Panel Basics

How Solar Works

Panels convert sunlight to DC electricity
Inverter converts DC to AC (usable power)
You use the power or export to grid
Smart meter tracks import/export

Devon's Solar Advantage

Factor	Devon vs UK Average
Solar irradiance	1,050 kWh/m²
Panel output	10-15% better than Midlands

Solar Panel Costs 2025

System Size	Typical Cost	Annual Output
4kW (10 panels)	£6,000 - £8,500	3,700 kWh
6kW (15 panels)	£8,000 - £11,000	5,500 kWh
8kW (20 panels)	£10,000 - £14,000	7,400 kWh

Prices include installation and grid connection

What Affects Cost?

Roof access and scaffolding
Tile type (slate costs more)
Number of roof faces used
Inverter type (string vs micro)
Any electrical upgrades needed

Battery Storage Options

Why Add Battery Storage?

Without battery:

You export excess to grid at ~5p/kWh
You buy it back at ~25p/kWh (evening)

With battery:

Store excess for evening use
Maximise self-consumption
Charge from cheap overnight rates

Battery Costs 2025

Capacity	Typical Cost	Stores
10kWh	£5,500 - £7,500	2 evenings' power
13.5kWh (Tesla Powerwall)	£8,500 - £10,500	2-3 evenings' power

Popular Battery Options

Tesla Powerwall

13.5kWh capacity
10-year warranty
Excellent app/integration
Higher price point

GivEnergy

Modular 5-13kWh
Good value option
Expandable later
UK-based support

Pylontech

Budget-friendly
Stackable modules
Popular with installers

Real Savings Analysis

Example: 4kW System + 6kWh Battery

Costs:

Solar system: £7,500
Battery: £4,000
Total: £11,500

Annual Savings:

Electricity offset: £850
Export income (SEG): £100
Total: £950/year

Payback Period: ~12 years

Without Battery (4kW Solar Only)

Costs: £7,500

Annual Savings:

Electricity offset: £450 (less self-consumption)
Export income: £150 (more export)
Total: £600/year

Payback Period: ~12.5 years

Factors Affecting Returns

Positive Factors

South-facing roof (ideal)
Daytime electricity use
EV charging from solar
Rising electricity prices
Working from home

Negative Factors

North-facing roof (poor)
Shading from trees/buildings
Low daytime consumption
Older property with access issues

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

The government scheme that pays you for exported electricity:

Supplier	Rate (p/kWh)
EDF	5.0p
British Gas	3.5p
Ovo	4.0p

Rates as of December 2024

EV Charging with Solar

Major benefit for Devon EV owners:

Generate your own "fuel"
Solar + EV charger = significant savings
Smart chargers prioritise solar power
Zappi automatically uses excess solar

Example calculation:

Drive 10,000 miles/year
Using 3,000 kWh
Solar provides half = 1,500 kWh
Saving: £375/year on "fuel"

Is Solar Worth It in Devon?

Yes If:

You own your home
Have suitable roof space
Plan to stay 10+ years
Use significant daytime electricity
Have or plan EV
Want energy independence

Maybe Not If:

Renting
Moving soon
Heavily shaded property
North-facing roof only
Limited budget

Electrical Work Involved

As electricians, we handle:

Consumer unit assessment/upgrade
AC/DC wiring installation
Inverter connection
Smart meter integration
G99 application if needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need planning permission?

Usually no for residential installations. Listed buildings require consent.

How long do solar panels last?

25-30 years with minimal degradation (80%+ output at 25 years).

Can I add battery later?

Yes, "solar-ready" installations make this easy.

What about cloudy days?

Panels still generate (less), and battery/grid provide backup.

Considering solar or battery storage in Devon? Call Grant's Electrical Solutions on 01626 374 059 for honest advice and electrical installation.

Solar Panels and Battery Storage: Is It Worth It in Devon?