Actual cost of a PV installation varies according to the size of your household, the amount of electricity you use, the size and type of system you buy and any government incentives available.

80% of the cost is for the solar modules. Materials used vary widely in both type and quality and hence attribute for the large variations in cost.

Modules are priced per kW and generally reduce as the size of the installation increases.

As a rule:

• Prices reduce as market forces increase
  
  
• prices vary by region, depending on supply and demand. Often suppliers in one country will source from several countries. Always check warranties and standards meet those set by the IEC, and ensure you get detailed advice from qualified professionals
  
  
• Quality and type of components used vary.  More expensive components may be more efficient so this needs to be taken into consideration when doing the sums. Not all types of components will be suitable for your home.
  
  
• Solar tiles cost more than conventional panels but if you need major roof repairs, PV tiles can offset the cost of roof tiles
  
  
• Panels built into a roof are more expensive than those that sit on top
  
  
• Economy of scale: typically the cost per kw is between £4,500 and £8,000 but this will reduce as size increases

Typical UK scenario:

To install an average size 2.2kW PV solar electricity system,  assuming 50% of the electricity generated is exported. (The final  figure will vary depending on how much is exported)

Cost including installation £12,000 (including VAT at 5%)

LESS

• £770 per year from the Generation Tariff
• £30 per year from the Export Tariff
• £120 per year reduction in current electricity bills.

total saving = £920 per year, ROI payback time = 13 years.

Savings for next 12 years £11,040 

Net profit £11,040

The energy savings trust provides a cashback calculator which will give you a guidelines on savings. (UK) see http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Generate-your-own-energy/Cashback-Calculator

For more precise costs, we provide a FREE Quotation service from up to five vetted suppliers in your area (UK only....more coming shortly)

Maintenance

• The cost of maintenance is generally small. you'll need to keep the panels relatively clean of leaves, moss and bird droppings as these may impair the performance of the  pv system. Keep trees regularly pruned and make sure they don’t begin to overshadow the solar modules. Some manufacturers require regular professional maintenance, so you should check this when purchasing.
  
  
• Roofs with a pitch of more than 20 degrees will generally be self-cleaning.  Dust - the main contaminant is eliminated by the weather -  rain and snow.,  If the pitch is less than this, the modules are not cleaned as effectively.  Regions with low rainfall in the vicinity of farms, forests and bird breeding stations will generally accumulate more dirt.
  
  
• Monitor your costs! To check your system is working efficiently. On a monthly basis  note the revenue generated and compare this to the performance of other photovoltaic systems in the neighbourhood, or with data from the Internet. If at any time the yield drops request an inspection of your installation. 
  
  
• For peace of mind and ongoing trouble free performance, ensure an annual review is included in the maintenance contract. This should include a check of the electrical components such as the inverter, lightning protection, the actual pv system and any network connections.   Again check this is provided for in the purchase contract.
  
  
• Ensure specialists carry out cleaning and any fixes to reduce risk.

• DIY cleaning! If you are going to perform the cleaning yourself ensure you have adequate and safe roof access. Do not touch any electrical parts or overhead wires. Avoid strong cleaners even if diluted first. In most cases, a commercial glass or household cleaner is sufficient. Avoid high-pressure jet sprayers and buy high quality cleaning brushes or cloths.  Rain water collected in a bucket is preferential to chalky tap water and will avoid staining.

Insurance

• Insurance – check this is covered in general buildings insurance and what it is insured for – fire, storm, hail, lightning, water, snow. Also check liability if a panel falls of the roof and hits someone.
  
  
• There are specialist solar insurance schemes which cover “all-risks”, not always provided in standard buildings insurance. These typically include damage by natural forces , shorts, design errors, operator error, theft, vandalism, repairs and any revenue loss.

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