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    Solar Panel Facts: Everything You Need to Know

    Key facts and statistics about solar panels in the UK — from efficiency and lifespan to costs and environmental impact.

    Performance Facts

    Modern solar panels are 20-22% efficient and generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sunshine. A 4kW system produces 3,400-4,000 kWh/year in the UK — enough to cover most household electricity needs. Panels degrade just 0.3-0.5% per year.

    Financial Facts

    Solar panels save £500-£1,100/year on electricity bills. Payback period is 6-9 years. Solar adds 4-14% to property value. 0% VAT since April 2022. The Smart Export Guarantee pays 3-15p/kWh for surplus energy exported to the grid.

    Environmental Facts

    A typical home solar system prevents 1-1.5 tonnes of CO2 per year. Solar panels are 95% recyclable. The energy used in manufacturing is recovered within 1-2 years of operation. Solar is now the cheapest form of electricity generation globally.

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