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Stupid solar policy
It has been estimated that all of the solar power produced by "traffic calming" and other displays, paid for by us, over the country would be enough to allow the closing of one coal fired power station.
The technology exists to supply solar power to any house with the capability to provide, at least, all the hot water requirements and, at best, excess electricity that could be sent to the national grid. If the government ruled that, together with the the increasing insulation demands, every new built house must have solar power then we would reduce power requirements and pollution from the power stations. The only downside is that this may increase the cost of new builds but it may be only marginal in this competitive sector. The decrease in energy costs, together with any income from supplying electricity to the grid, should more than offset additional build costs and the mortgage companies should take this in to account.
SOLAR PANEL FACTS
In a single hour the sun transmits more energy to the earth`s surface than the whole of mankind uses in a year.
There a many manufacturers of solar panels, with varying outputs, and some of the best are produced in the UK. We are confident that a system or 4/5 top output panels with an inverter to produce AC current for the grid can be purchased, retail, for less than £4000. A system of this size should produce the average requirement for a 3 bed house.
Planning permission should not be a problem unless your building is listed or in a conservation area. £2,500 grants are, in theory, available.
Systems that return surplus electricity to the national grid are readily available but you may need to change supplier if your current supplier does not subscribe to this.
Solar panels are simple, effective, have no moving parts, require no maintenance and are guaranteed on performance for 20 years + and have a lifespan of 30years +.
You may be confused by all the predictions of global warming but one fact is certainly true and measurable – the vast increase in recent years in CO 2 emissions. This must have consequences and any measure to help should be implemented. Anyone who remembers the London smogs, and other towns and cities, before the legislative introduction of smokeless fuels will understand.
It is time for the government to get on board with this and simplify/abolish planning permission. Ruth Kelly promised to abolish planning permissions on the 4th April 2007. We should also expect to see solar panels on all non listed government buildings and possibly tax breaks/incentives to UK manufacturers to reduce costs. Removing VAT on all solar products and installation would also help. We would expect all electricity supplied to the national grid by solar to be at the same premium above cost that wind turbine power has been granted.
