“Free solar PV” – Not all deals are the same?

As the market for solar PV grows, more and more companies are offering free solar PV to both the domestic and commercial markets.

Currently, there are (typically) two offers available, with a third (probably?) on it’s way:

1). The investor funds the whole installation – They take the FIT and export payments, and “sell” the building owner the electricity used at a reduced rate.

2). As above, but the building owner gets all energy generated and used for free.

3). As above, and additionally the building owner gets a share of the FIT payments… However, whilst this has been suggested, we have yet to find a company offering this. But, we are sure that it will come?

Now, let’s say a couple of companies offered you option 2, you’d probably think that you’d save the same amount of money?

In most instances, you’d be wrong!

Solar panels come in many sizes, with differing levels of performance, and then we have the inverter to consider.

There’s a key difference between “paid for” solar, and “free” solar – If you were paying for it yourself, you’d probably want the best value system? However, if you were “renting” your roof out, you’d want the best performing system?

For example, not every 20kwp system will produce the same returns? Even if the same panels are used. If the inverter differs, this can make a difference of around 10% in terms of performance!

It’s a complicated scenario?

So if you want independent advice and help in this matter? Then contact Viridis on 0845 437 4484, or email info@viridisec.co.uk

---