FAQs

• What is renewable energy?
• What are the UK's commitments on renewables?
• How do I know if my farm is suitable for wind turbines?
• What happens if there is no wind?
• Do the turbines qualify for capital allowances?
• Does the turbine interfere with electrical equipment or TV and radio?
• What is Solar PV electricity?
• Do the PV Panels affect the environment?
• What's the difference between PV and other solar energy technologies?
• How much roof space do the panels require?
• Will the British weather impact on the effectiveness of the panels?
• How big are the panels?
• Will I need planning permission?

What is renewable energy?

Anything that can be used to make heat or electricity without unsustainable fuels and that does not make a net contribution of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. This includes wind power, waves and the tides, solar energy, geothermal energy and biomass. Nuclear power, although it is low-carbon, cannot be counted as a renewable source of energy because its fuel, uranium, is finite.

What are the UK's commitments on renewables?

The UK is committed to producing 15% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020 — this is equivalent to around 35% of its electricity.

(Source: The Department of Energy and Climate Change, 2011)

How do I know if my farm is suitable for wind turbines?

A large percentage of UK farms are ideal for wind turbines. However, choosing the correct site is of critical importance. A technical expert will need to undertake a feasibility study and complete a wind report to assess whether your land or location is suitable. We can help you arrange this.

What happens if there is no wind?

The turbine should produce power down to a wind speed of 3.5 m/s. Below that, no power will be generated. You will need an alternative source, such as batteries (which are charged when the turbine is operating) or a generator. If you have a Grid connected system, then you should be able to draw power from the National Grid.

Do the turbines qualify for capital allowances?

Capital costs should qualify for capital allowances, under the annual investment allowance or general allowances i.e. the cost of the turbine may potentially be deducted for tax purposes against the income stream. We understand that it is not possible to have a turbine in your pension scheme but that you can rent land from your scheme to a turbine operating business. We do recommend that you take specific independent advice if considering this option.

Does the turbine interfere with electrical equipment or TV and radio?

A small electromagnetic field is produced, however it should be of small enough magnitude to be negligible and should not interfere with any electrical equipment or with radio, TV, mobile telephones or similar devices.

What is Solar PV electricity?

Solar PV (photovoltaic) electricity uses panels, which convert sunlight directly into electricity. While they perform best in bright conditions, they will still produce electricity when it’s cloudy. Solar PV panels can be roof-mounted or sited on the ground. After installation, the panels are low maintenance and should produce electricity for at least 25 years.

Do the PV Panels affect the environment?

PV technology relies on daylight to operate and the semi-conductor material used to produce the PV cells is silicon, an element most commonly found in sand. There is no limitation to its availability as a raw material as silicon is the second most abundant raw material on the planet.

What’s the difference between PV and other solar energy technologies?

There are four main types of solar energy technologies:

• Photovoltaic (PV) systems, which convert sunlight directly to electricity by means of PV cells made of semiconductor materials.
• Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) systems, which concentrate the sun’s energy using reflective devices such as troughs or mirror panels to produce heat that is then used to generate electricity.
• Solar water heating systems, which contain a solar collector that faces the sun and either heats water directly or heats a working fluid that, in turn, is used to heat water.
• Transpired solar collectors, or solar walls, which use solar energy to preheat ventilation air for a building.

How much roof space do the panels require?

Enough panels to produce, say, 1 kW of energy would require approximately 10m2 of roof space.

Will the British weather impact on the effectiveness of the panels?

The panels work extremely well within the UK as they rely on daylight, not just sunlight.

How big are the panels?

The size will vary depending on hot water demand but typically 2m x 1.5m x 2m for basic standard equipment.

Will I need planning permission?

Yes, in most cases. Our team can offer guidance on this and, if necessary, put you in touch with a planning consultant.

Security may be required. Product fees may apply. Over 18s only.

ANY PROPERTY USED AS SECURITY, WHICH MAY INCLUDE YOUR HOME, MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP WITH REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT.