October, 2025 -

Aberystwyth home solar PV panels with battery storage and electric vehicle connected for Vehicle-to-Load energy system.

October 27, 2025

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Solar PV, Battery Storage, and Vehicle-to-Load Technology in Aberystwyth

Introduction

Imagine powering your home with Solar PV, storing that energy with battery storage, and using your electric car with Vehicle-to-Load technology as a backup generator. This isn’t a vision of the future—it’s the reality for one household in Aberystwyth, Wales.

We were thrilled when a forward-thinking customer approached us with an ambitious goal: to create a fully integrated renewable energy system combining Solar PV, battery storage, and Vehicle-to-Load technology to maximize their independence from the grid. Their secret weapon? The cutting-edge V2L capabilities of their new electric vehicle.

The Ambition & The Challenge

Our customer didn’t want just solar panels, or just a battery. They wanted a seamless ecosystem where each component communicates with the others to optimize energy usage and provide ultimate resilience. The key components of their vision were:

Solar Generation: A 4.68 kWp solar PV array to capture clean, free energy from the Welsh sun.
Energy Storage: A 5.8 kWh battery system to store excess solar power for use at night or on cloudy days.
Mobile Power: Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Technology, allowing their electric vehicle to power their home during peak tariffs or a grid outage.

The primary hurdle wasn’t installing the individual parts, but ensuring they worked together as one intelligent system. Seamless communication between the solar inverter, the battery, and the EV2L system was crucial to avoid inefficiencies and unlock the full potential of their investment.

Our Solution & Remarkable Results

Our team designed and installed a bespoke system built on synergy:

The Heart of the Home: The 4.68 kWp solar array was installed to efficiently cover the roof, acting as the primary power plant.
The Energy Bank: The 5.8 kWh battery was integrated to store every possible watt of solar energy, minimizing grid import.
The Game-Changer: We implemented the EV2L capability, turning the customer’s electric vehicle into a mobile, high-capacity power reservoir. Now, when the battery is low or grid prices are high, the car can effortlessly supply power to the house.

The Results:

Dramatic Cost Savings: 66% reduction in electricity bills from April to May.
Unprecedented Energy Independence: The solar PV and battery combo covers the vast majority of daily needs.
Total Peace of Mind: EV2L system provides a powerful backup solution during power cuts or peak-time electricity tariffs.

This project in Aberystwyth is a blueprint for the modern, resilient, and efficient home. It proves that by intelligently integrating solar PV, battery storage, and electric vehicle technology, homeowners can achieve significant financial savings and complete energy security.

Solax Inverter and Battery storage MCS installation Solar Save Renewables Wales

Aberystwyth home solar PV panels with battery storage and EV connected for Vehicle-to-Load energy system

October 21, 2025

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Best Ways to Use Solar Panels at Home: Experience the Real Magic of Solar

You probably already know that solar panels are a smart way to cut your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. But if you think that’s all they do, you’re only seeing part of the picture. The real power of solar comes from integrating it with other modern home technologies. By pairing your panels with a battery, heat pump, or EV charger, you can create a home that is more self-sufficient, environmentally friendly, and economical.

Solar Panels and Batteries: Store Your Energy for Later

Here’s a common solar dilemma: your panels produce the most electricity when you’re least likely to be home to use it. Without a way to capture that surplus, it simply flows back to the grid.

This is where a solar battery can help. Think of it as your personal energy reservoir—storing clean, free power during the day so you can use it in the evening when you need it most, for lights, appliances, and family entertainment.

Why it’s worth considering:

Power when you need it: Use stored energy at night or during peak times.
Reduced grid reliance: Rely less on electricity from your provider.
Extra income: Sell surplus energy back to the grid.

Solar Panels and Heat Pumps: Keeping Your Home Comfortable

Heating and cooling often account for the largest portion of home energy bills. Pairing solar panels with an air source heat pump (ASHP) is one of the most effective ways to tackle these costs. Because heat pumps run on electricity, your solar system can power your home’s heating and cooling directly, making the most of renewable energy. Benefits of combining solar with a heat pump:

Lower energy bills: Solar can cover 50–80% of a heat pump’s electricity needs.
Smart energy use: Modern systems can prioritise solar energy during daylight hours.
Faster payback: Combining solar with an ASHP can reduce your system’s payback from eight to five years.

Things to consider:

Roof space: The number of panels depends on your home and heat pump size.
Battery storage: Optional, but useful for storing energy for nighttime heating.
Example: A 3-bedroom home with a 9kW heat pump might need 12–16 solar panels (around 4kW) to cover 60–80% of its energy needs.

Even in winter, modern heat pumps work efficiently down to -15°C. Solar panels produce less during these months, but grid electricity can back up your system at a lower cost than gas.

Solar Panels and EV Charging: Using Your Solar for Everyday Driving

If you own an electric vehicle (EV), charging it with solar power is a great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. Typical solar EV setup in the UK:

Panels: 6–12 (2–4kW system) to generate clean energy.
EV charger: Solar-compatible models like the zappi.
Battery storage (optional): Charge overnight with stored solar energy.
Example: A 4kW system in Wales could provide roughly 8,000 miles of driving per year for a Nissan Leaf.

Why install a home EV charger?

Convenience: Wake up to a fully charged car every morning.
Cost savings: Up to 80% cheaper than public chargers.
Energy independence: Charge whenever it suits you, without relying on public infrastructure.
Eco-friendly: Drive using renewable energy.

By combining solar panels with a battery, heat pump, or EV charger, you can make your home more energy-efficient, flexible, and less dependent on the grid. It’s all about using the electricity your panels generate in the smartest way—whether that’s keeping your home warm, storing power for later, or charging your car. With a setup that fits your home and lifestyle, solar energy can become a simple, everyday part of how you live more sustainably.

October 10, 2025

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The Truth About How Many Solar Panels You Need

Planning to install solar panels at home but not sure how many you need? The answer depends on your household’s energy use, roof size, and future plans. While most UK homes require around 10–14 panels, this guide will help you estimate the right system size for your property and understand what factors to consider before installation.

Real-Life Example

The Davies family from Llandeilo have a four-bedroom detached home using 4,800 kWh per year. After installing a 13-panel solar system, they now cover 92% of their annual electricity needs. Their battery stores excess energy for evening use, so they only buy electricity during the coldest winter months.

Step-by-Step Calculation for Wales

1. Find Your Annual Electricity Usage (kWh)

This is the most important starting point — you’ll find it on your electricity bill. UK averages (Ofgem 2024):

Small, energy-efficient flat: 1,800–2,000 kWh per year
Typical 3-bedroom house: 3,100–4,200 kWh per year
Large home with electric heating or EV: 8,000–12,000+ kWh per year

For this example, let’s use a typical 3-bedroom Welsh home consuming 3,600 kWh per year.

2. Estimate Your Ideal System Size (kWp)

We can estimate system size using this simplified formula, adjusted for Welsh solar conditions: System size (kWp) = Annual electricity use (kWh) ÷ (Annual sunlight hours × System efficiency)

Average annual sunlight hours in Wales: 3.0 hours/day × 365 = 1,095 hours
System efficiency: typically 85% (0.85), accounting for inverter and temperature losses

Calculation: 3,600 ÷ (1,095 × 0.85) = 3,600 ÷ 930 = ≈ 3.9 kWp

3. Calculate How Many Panels You Need

Modern high-efficiency panels in the UK range from 350W–450W. Number of panels = System size (kW) ÷ Panel wattage (kW) Using a 415W (0.415 kW) panel: 3.9 ÷ 0.415 = ≈ 9.4 panels You’d therefore need around 10 panels to meet this household’s annual electricity needs — forming a 4 kWp system.

Result Summary

Description	Value
Annual usage	3,600 kWh
Average Welsh sunlight	1,095 hours
System size	~3.9 kWp
Panel size	415W
Panels needed	10
Roof area required	18–20 m² (approx.)

In short: A typical three-bedroom home in Wales would need around 10 high-efficiency panels (≈4 kWp) to meet its annual energy needs, depending on roof orientation and lifestyle.

Recommended System Size by Property Type

Property Type	Recommended System	Panels (440–450W)	Roof Space Needed
1–2 bed terraced	2.5 kW	6	10–12 m²
3 bed semi-detached	4 kW	9	16–18 m²
4 bed detached	5.5 kW	13	23–26 m²
5+ bed detached	8 kW+	18+	32 m²+

Expected Annual Energy Generation

Property Type	Annual Generation
1–2 bed terraced	2,125–2,250 kWh
3 bed semi-detached	3,400–3,600 kWh
4 bed detached	4,675–5,000 kWh
5+ bed detached	6,800–7,200+ kWh

UK & Wales-Specific Considerations

1. Roof Orientation Matters

South-facing (ideal): Generates the most electricity.
East or West-facing (good): Expect around 15–25% lower efficiency — you may need one or two extra panels.
North-facing: Usually not cost-effective for solar PV.

2. Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

Under the UK’s SEG scheme, you’re paid for the surplus electricity your system exports to the grid.

Typical rates: 1p–15p per kWh exported
Grid import cost: around 28p per kWh

It’s therefore more beneficial to use your solar energy in real time — for example, by running appliances during daylight hours.

Enhance Your System with Battery Storage

“Adding battery storage was the best decision we made. During an October storm, our lights stayed on while neighbours were in the dark. The system paid for itself that week alone.” — The Morgan Family, Brecon (8.2kW system with 13.5kWh storage)

Battery Benefits

Use solar energy at night and during peak times
Charge your EV from stored solar power
Backup during power cuts
Optimise costs using smart tariffs

Your Action Plan

Check your energy bills – find your exact annual kWh usage.
Use a UK calculator – the Energy Saving Trust offers reliable solar sizing tools.
Get local quotes – trusted Welsh installers can:
- Use satellite data to assess your roof’s tilt, direction, and shading
- Provide accurate generation forecasts for your location
- Advise on the best SEG tariffs and battery options

Choosing the right solar panel setup isn’t about guessing — it’s about understanding how your home uses energy and what your roof can deliver. Taking time to match your system size to your real needs means better performance, lower costs, and a smoother path to long-term savings. Whether you’re just starting your research or ready to plan, understanding your ideal system size is the best first step towards making solar work for you.

October 10, 2025

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Solar Panels Explained: A Homeowner’s Guide to Savings & Energy Independence

Most people think solar panels are complicated, expensive, or only for eco-warriors. The truth? With the right guidance, they’re a practical, smart way to take control of your energy — and even earn money along the way.

At Solar Save Renewables, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Wales and England unlock the benefits of solar power. This guide provides clear, professional insights into how solar panels work, the true costs and potential savings, how to select the right system for your home, and the benefits of adding battery storage.

What are Solar Panels?

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, convert sunlight into electricity, making them a popular and eco-friendly choice for generating your own power.

Think of a solar panel as a collection of cells that work together to capture sunlight.

Most panels are made from silicon, a material known for its durability and efficiency. Since there are no moving parts, solar panels can operate for a very long time without wearing out. Plus, they produce electricity – a practical and valuable form of energy for your home.

What happens when light hits the solar panel?

Imagine sunlight as a stream of tiny energy particles called photons. When these photons hit your solar panels, they transfer their energy to the electrons inside. This process is like giving the electrons a boost, making them jump to a higher energy level.

This energy transfer is what we call the photovoltaic effect, which is why solar panels are named photovoltaic (PV) panels. Essentially, the panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity.

The electricity your panels generate can power everything from lights and appliances to electric vehicles. It’s like having a mini power station right on your roof or in your backyard, all fueled by the sun!

Finding the Right Solar Panel System for You

At Solar Save Renewables, we understand that choosing the right solar system for your home can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ll guide you through every step of the process. From assessing your energy needs to selecting the perfect panels, we’re here to make the journey simple and stress-free.

Select Your Solar Panels

Based on efficiency, durability, and cost to match your energy needs and budget.

Choose the Right Inverter

The control centre of your PV system that maximises performance and efficiency.

Decide on Mounting Options

Choose from ground-mounted, on-roof, or in-roof systems to suit your property.

Consider Adding a Battery

Store excess energy for use when the sun isn’t shining and increase your independence.

How to Choose the Best Solar Panels

Solar panels are crucial for converting sunlight into electricity. Choosing the right panels can seem complicated, but we’re here to guide you through the process.

When the staff at the local school in Newcastle Emlyn reached out to us, they were unsure about which solar panels would best suit their needs. After assessing their large, south-facing roof and high daytime energy consumption, we recommended high-efficiency Q CELLS panels. “The difference was noticeable right from the first sunny day,” said the school’s headteacher. “Our system produced 15% more than the nearby school that opted for more budget-friendly panels.”

Affordable Panels

Trina Solar
Canadian Solar
LONGi Solar

Mid-Range Panels

JinkoSolar
JA Solar

High-Efficiency Panels

SolarEdge
Q CELLS

Solar Panel Appearance

Most panels have black cells with white backs and silver frames. For a seamless look, choose all-black panels with black frames — perfect for slate roofs or integrated installations.

Transparent Look at Solar Installation Costs

When you invest in solar energy, it’s important to understand how your money is spent. At Solar Save Renewables, we prioritise transparency because we know it builds trust. Here’s how costs are typically distributed:

Equipment: Solar panels, inverter, mounting system
Installation: Labour and specialist equipment
Certification: MCS certification and compliance

“We were initially hesitant about the upfront cost, but Solar Save Renewables broke everything down clearly. Our system has already cut our electricity bills by 60% in just 6 months!” — Brian, from Llan-gain Carmarthen

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Tariff Overview

Who is the SEG for? The scheme is designed for individuals with systems like solar PV, wind, micro-CHP, hydro, or AD with a capacity of up to 5MW or up to 50kW.

About the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): To qualify, your installation and installer must be certified through the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) or equivalent. As fully MCS accredited installers, we provide an MCS certificate upon completing your solar PV and battery storage installation. This ensures your installation meets the highest standards using MCS certified products.

Benefits of the SEG

Earn money by exporting any excess electricity you generate to

Heat Pump - energy-efficient heating technology for homes.

October 8, 2025

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Heat Pumps vs. Boilers: How to Win Your Home Heating Battle

As energy costs rise and environmental concerns grow, homeowners in Wales are increasingly looking for sustainable and cost-effective heating solutions. Many still rely on traditional gas and oil boilers, but heat pumps vs. boilers is becoming a key consideration for those exploring modern alternatives. In this post, we’ll compare heat pumps and traditional heating systems in terms of efficiency, running costs, and environmental impact. We’ll also discuss how integrating solar panels and battery storage can further enhance your home’s energy efficiency.

If your boiler is ageing, or you’re tired of unpredictable energy bills, you’re not alone. For decades, Welsh homeowners have relied on gas or oil—but there’s a smarter, cleaner, and more efficient alternative: the air source heat pump.

And thanks to the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme, switching to a modern, low-carbon system has never been more achievable for homes across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Swansea, Mid Wales, and Powys.

This guide breaks down the key differences between heat pumps and traditional systems, highlighting practical benefits, costs, and what makes a heat pump a genuinely sustainable choice for Welsh homes.

Feature	Air Source Heat Pump	Gas Boiler	Oil Boiler
Efficiency	300–400%	85–95%	85–94%
Environmental Impact	Low carbon	High carbon	Very high carbon
Running Costs	Low	Moderate	High
Lifespan	20–25 years	10–15 years	10–15 years

What this means for your Welsh home:

Efficiency: Heat pumps move existing heat instead of creating it by burning fuel, giving you 3–4 units of warmth for every unit of electricity.

Lower running costs: High efficiency translates to real savings, especially when replacing old oil or LPG systems.

Long-term value: A heat pump lasts almost twice as long as a conventional boiler.

Sustainable living: Dramatically reduce your household carbon footprint while keeping your home cosy year-round.

Beyond the Numbers: Real Benefits for Homeowners

Modern heat pumps offer far more than just efficiency:

Energy savings you can feel: In summer, households with well-designed systems can see electricity bills drop to as little as £5 per month, even while charging an electric car.

Income from surplus energy: Pair your heat pump with solar panels, and any excess energy can be sold back to the grid, generating £2–3 per day during sunny months.

Cleaner, healthier homes: Fully electric heating eliminates on-site combustion, improving indoor air quality.

Intuitive control: Modern systems offer smartphone apps for easy temperature and energy management—comfort and control at your fingertips.

Key Considerations for a Heat Pump in Wales

To ensure your system performs at its best, keep these factors in mind:

Insulation matters: Well-insulated Welsh homes get the most from heat pumps, with stable warmth and minimal energy waste.
Maximise your investment: Combining a heat pump with solar PV and battery storage creates a home energy ecosystem that slashes bills and carbon output.
Align with your values: If reducing your carbon footprint is important, a heat pump is the most effective home upgrade.
Financial support: The £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme helps offset upfront costs, making the transition far more accessible.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Choosing a heating system isn’t just about technology—it’s about comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind. For most Welsh homeowners, a heat pump is an investment that:

Delivers consistent, low-cost heating and cooling.
Offers long-term savings and a longer lifespan than conventional boilers.
Supports sustainable living with lower carbon emissions.

Even if your home currently has gas or oil heating, a heat pump—especially when combined with solar and battery storage—can future-proof your home and reduce ongoing running costs.

Introduction

The Ambition & The Challenge

Our Solution & Remarkable Results

Solar Panels and Batteries: Store Your Energy for Later

Solar Panels and Heat Pumps: Keeping Your Home Comfortable

Solar Panels and EV Charging: Using Your Solar for Everyday Driving

Real-Life Example

Step-by-Step Calculation for Wales

1. Find Your Annual Electricity Usage (kWh)

2. Estimate Your Ideal System Size (kWp)

3. Calculate How Many Panels You Need

Result Summary

Recommended System Size by Property Type

Expected Annual Energy Generation

UK & Wales-Specific Considerations

1. Roof Orientation Matters

2. Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

Enhance Your System with Battery Storage

Battery Benefits

Your Action Plan

What are Solar Panels?

What happens when light hits the solar panel?

Finding the Right Solar Panel System for You

Select Your Solar Panels

Choose the Right Inverter

Decide on Mounting Options

Consider Adding a Battery

How to Choose the Best Solar Panels

Affordable Panels

Mid-Range Panels

High-Efficiency Panels

Solar Panel Appearance

Transparent Look at Solar Installation Costs

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Tariff Overview

Benefits of the SEG

Heat Pumps vs. Boilers: How to Win Your Home Heating Battle

A Smarter Way to Heat Your Home in Wales

Head-to-Head Comparison: Heat Pump vs Gas & Oil Boilers

What this means for your Welsh home:

Beyond the Numbers: Real Benefits for Homeowners

Key Considerations for a Heat Pump in Wales

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Choosing a heating system isn’t just about technology—it’s about comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind. For most Welsh homeowners, a heat pump is an investment that:

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