It's Your World: Solar’s so good for property values

Sep 2 2009 by Jade Wright, Birkenhead News

“This figure will increase each year as electricity prices increase, as may the amount he’s paid for his exported electricity,” explains David.

“The panels are guaranteed for 25 years. Plus the main tariff for income is fixed for 25 years though, it will not go down. So during the 25 years, if electricity prices do not change the payback will be £20,748.25. But we all know what is happening to electricity prices. The government works on a basis of 10% increase annually, but this is, we think, conservative.”

So, over 25 years, the investment will more than double.

“It also adds value to your home, the Nationwide suggest as much as 10%,” says David.

And, in the Crosby example, the panels will offset over 1 tonne of CO² that would otherwise have been used.

David started the company after becoming disillusioned with the rat race.

“For 12 years I was a head-hunter, recruiting for senior level roles, nationally and internationally,” he says. “I took an 18-month sabbatical working as a corporate fundraiser for Barnardo’s looking at many Liverpool businesses.

“I’ve always had a passion for environmental issues and I’m currently studying part-time for an Open University degree in environmental science. It was from that the idea for Eco Environments was born.”

The company is currently working to help homeowners get grants before the current scheme runs out in March. But there are also other sources of funding.

“For schools, charities, faith and community groups we can get 50% grant funding,” he explains. “For businesses we can help and advise on a variety of grants available from the NWDA and other sources. The bottom line is there is support out there for people wanting to install renewable energy.”

And since the government announcement about buying back surplus power, enquiries and bookings have gone through the roof.

“There is certainly a lot more awareness of about renewable energy, but generally people are not well informed.”

For more information on using renewable energy, contact the Merseyside-based Energy Saving Trust advice centre on 0800 512 012 or visit the website at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk. Contact Eco Environments Ltd on 0151 922 5936 or www.eco-environments.co.uk.