We spoke to Charlie, a My Home Made Better client who was considering installing solar panels but needed a bit of guidance. Here's what she had to say.
"I had a feeling my house would be well suited to solar panels. Parts of it get incredibly hot when the sun is out, so it seemed clear that the aspect was right for solar, and that we should be putting that sunshine to good use.
"When I started looking into solar, I got quotes from two different installers. What surprised me was just how different they were. One quote was much higher than the other, and I didn't really understand why. I was concerned about making an expensive mistake and, to be honest, I think I probably would have given up at that point because I was worried about making the wrong decision.
"Things changed when I attended a local talk and met Stu, a My Home Made Better adviser. We arranged an advice call, and he helped me understand the differences between the quotes and what I should be looking for. Being able to talk things through with someone independent was very reassuring. It gave me the confidence to move ahead with the installation, knowing I was making an informed decision.
"From there, the process was very straightforward. The installation itself was easy, and I'm so pleased I decided to go ahead with it.
"One of my favourite things about having solar panels is the app. I love being able to see when I'm generating electricity and thinking about how I can make the best use of it around the house. It's really satisfying to know that I'm producing my own renewable energy.
"I'm also just getting set up with the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), so I'll soon be able to receive payments for electricity I export back to the grid."
"My next goal is to move away from gas and install a heat pump. I just need to convince my husband first!
"As a volunteer, I'm really looking forward to speaking to other people about my experience. I think a lot of people on my estate are in a very similar position. Now is a great time for people in Whiteley to be thinking about solar. For those who already have solar panels installed, it's also worth checking that you’re signed up to an export tariff so you can receive payments for any electricity you export back to the grid.
"Having access to trusted advice made all the difference for me. It helped turn something that felt confusing and overwhelming into a decision I felt confident making. Looking back, I'm so glad I went ahead, and I'm excited to help others do the same."
