How often is solar energy used?
Energy generated by solar PV is being used more and more around the world. Many homes, businesses, and factories have now installed solar panels to produce electricity and reduce their reliance on the UK Grid Network. As technology improves and unit costs go down, solar power is becoming a popular choice for energy needs.
Current stage of solar energy usage
The use of solar energy is rapidly increasing worldwide. In 2023, renewables accounted for a record 86% of global power additions, with solar power alone contributing nearly three-quarters of these additions, totalling a record 346 GW. [1] The growth for solar PV has been based on technological advancements, cost reductions, and supportive government policies. For instance, the International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that renewable energy consumption in the power, heat, and transport sectors is expected to increase by nearly 60% over 2024-2030, boosting the share of renewables in final energy consumption to nearly 20% by 2030, up from 13% in 2023. [2]
What benefits do UK businesses see from solar PV?
Mypower’s customers typically generate around 30–40% of their annual electricity needs from their solar PV systems. The effective cost of this solar electricity is just 4-5p/kWh significantly lower than the typical 2025 grid rate of around 20p/kWh.
This cost advantage, combined with income from exported electricity, means most systems achieve payback within 3-4 years (even before accounting for potential Capital Allowance benefits), delivering a return on investment of 20-30%. By securing a substantial proportion of their electricity needs from their own rooftops at a fixed cost thanks to the free input fuel (sunlight), businesses are also significantly reducing their exposure to future energy price rises.
Seasonal trends of solar energy usage
The amount of solar power generated depends on the amount of sunlight available. As the year progresses and the seasons change, so does the length of time sunlight hits the earth. For example, during the winter months, the UK has shorter daylight hours and lower sun angles which can reduce your solar output. But on the other hand, during the summer months, longer days (more daylight hours) and higher sun angles can increase solar energy production. These seasonal variations are important considerations when designing a solar PV system.
What limits solar energy usage?
Despite its benefits, there are some challenges which can limit the option of installing solar PV to generate clean energy:
- Weather Dependence: Cloudy days, heavy snowfall, and other weather conditions can reduce solar panel efficiency.
- Space Requirements: Installing solar panels requires adequate space, which can be a problem in densely populated urban areas.
- Energy Storage Costs: While battery storage technology is advancing, the startup costs remain relatively high, making it challenging to store excess energy for use during nighttime or cloudy periods.
- Grid Infrastructure: In some regions, the electrical grid infrastructure is not equipped to handle the flexibility and distributed nature of solar power, leading to challenges in integration. [3]
Expected growth of solar energy usage
As the popularity in renewable energy continues to grow, so will the electricity generated, amount of systems installed and the awareness of the benefits solar PV can bring. By 2030, IEA forecasts that the amount of renewable energy people use is expected to increase by nearly 60% and most of this will come from sources like solar and wind power. [4] This growth is because more than 130 countries worldwide are supporting clean energy, solar panels are getting cheaper, and more things—like cars and home heating—are switching to electricity. Plus, better solar technology and batteries will make solar power energy easier to use for homes and businesses.
Mypower solar panel services
Mypower provides high-quality solar panel installations for businesses across the UK. We help customers reduce energy bills and become more sustainable. Our expert team ensures efficient installation and long-term support. If you’re considering solar energy, Mypower can guide you through the process and help you make the switch to clean energy.
Switching to solar energy is a smart choice for the future. With growing demand and better technology, solar power is set to play a key role in global energy solutions. Contact Mypower today to discuss your solar future.
