UK energy consumers call for more incentives for renewables

Nearly 90% of UK energy consumers want more Government incentives to promote the use of renewable energy sources in their homes, according to new research by Solar Together.

With the upcoming general election, the study highlights the need for greater Government support to help households transition to renewable energy and assist the UK in meeting its net-zero targets.

The study’s findings reveal that the rising cost of living and increased awareness of the climate emergency are the primary factors driving the adoption of solar energy across the UK. However, the survey also shows that these efforts are being hindered by the perceived costs associated with installing solar panels, which have dissuaded 47% of households from making the switch.

Among those surveyed who have already installed solar panels, one-third cited their main motivation as addressing climate change and reducing their carbon emissions.

Another 31% installed solar panels to counter the effects of rising living costs and surging energy bills in the past two years. Following their installation, 47% of these households have seen their energy costs decrease significantly, while an additional 37% have experienced moderate reductions in their bills.

The research also discovered that the total number of households with solar panels in the UK increased by 30% in 2023. Additionally, 35% of respondents who do not currently have solar panels indicated that they are likely to switch to solar energy within the next five years. More than three-quarters of all respondents believe that renewable energy is as reliable and effective as traditional energy sources.

Energy consumption habits have also evolved as more households install solar panels. More than a quarter of solar panel owners have become more conscientious about their energy use, actively working to reduce consumption.

Nearly 70% of all respondents expressed concern about their current energy usage, reflecting a broader trend towards energy conservation.

"The overwhelming majority of solar panel adoptees never look back – and this survey highlights just some of the benefits that making the switch can bring. From savings on energy bills and greater awareness of energy consumption to taking pride in doing something positive for the environment, solar panels are helping UK households alleviate some of the pressures from the rising cost of living and putting them on a more sustainable path for the future," George Frost, UK Country Manager at iChoosr said.

Frost also acknowledged the challenges consumers face when considering solar panel installation.

"Through our conversations with energy-conscious consumers across the country, we understand that the perceived costs and practicalities to installing solar panels can be a barrier to adoption."

"However, there are now schemes such as Solar Together which deliver huge savings for households, and entire communities, and make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible when making the switch," he added.

Since 2015, iChoosr has collaborated with UK councils on the Solar Together programme to expedite the transition to renewable energy nationwide.

To date, Solar Together has facilitated over 31,700 installations, which are anticipated to reduce over 647,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over the next 25 years.