Will I be stuck with one energy supplier if I put solar panels on my roof?

Lisa Greenfield, energy analyst at Confused.com answers the latest energy question.

Question: I am in the early stages of thinking about putting solar PV panels on my roof. I understand the basics and the benefits of the feed-in tariff schemes - but I have one little worry.

I would be paid a fixed amount for electricity generated by my panels and an extra 3p per unit for electricity passed back into the grid. But would I be tied to a single supplier for my 'normal' grid-supplied electricity? Would I end up paying a bit more for each kWh of 'normal' electricity used?

Answer: It’s good to hear someone so ‘switched on’ about their energy usage!

From what I believe to be correct, it seems you’re free to switch to any supplier.  The only limitation you may have is that only the bigger suppliers - those with more than 50,000 customers - are running this scheme at the moment. 

It also seems you don’t  need to have one supplier for both your ‘imported’ and ‘exported’ electricity, in fact, you’re free to switch to any tariff you like for your ‘imported’ electricity and can choose another for the electricity you’re passing back to the grid.

The following links may also be useful:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQx1wVeDroI

http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Generate-your-own-energy/Solar-electricity

http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Generate-your-own-energy/Sell-your-own-energy

Feed-in tariffs: make your energy pay

You may also want to contact the Energy Saving Trust on: 0800 512 012.

Comments

[plumbing]

Solar panels work in two different ways. There are solar cells that convert light energy into electricity. This is a little on the expensive side, which doesn't make it as popular as the way energy is used now. However, they are found on a number of products. Space shuttles and satellites use them. Parts of these are covered in solar panels.

[Jean]

I don't even know what to say, this made things so much eiaser!

[yhllrjm]

BET373 ybcckjwskman

[solar energy]

Most probably, yes. You can always change your supplier but it would be a difficult process and there are a lot of things to consider. I suggest you just stick with one supplier.