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Install solar panels and get paid for saving energy

• Feed-in Tariffs scheme information site Opens new window

People across the UK are rapidly installing solar panels and making money for saving energy.

The government introduced 'Feed-in Tariffs' or FITS at the beginning of April. Since then, the uptake of solar panel installations registered with the scheme has increased every month.

According to figures recorded by FITS administrator Ofgem, 412 installations were made in the first month. And in the following months this has increased to 944 in May, 1,406 in June, 1,751 in July and 3,642 in August.

The scheme rewards people who generate their own energy. Households and communities who install technology like small wind turbines or solar panels will be able to claim payment for the low carbon electricity they generate and any extra electricity generated can be sold back to the National Grid.

A typical 2kW domestic solar electricity system, fitted on an existing property, generating an average of 1666kWh per year, could attract:

• £688 per year, from the Generation Tariff
• £25 per year, from the Export Tariff and
• £110 per year reduction in electricity bills
• giving a total saving of around £823 per year

You can apply for the Feed-in Tariff from your electricity supplier. For more information about the scheme visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk (see link below).

More on Directgov

• Find out more about solar power (environment and greener living section)

Further information

• Feed-in Tariff scheme: Energy Saving Trust Opens new window