Commercial Roofing Contractor

The 2010 National Photovoltaic Survey

In association with IPS UK Ltd and K2 Solar

Introduction:

With the rising interest in protection of the environment and the development of the solar technology, photovotlaic cells represent an increasingly important type of renewable energy. Photovoltaic technology has been developed to the point it enables a significant part of the future energy supply to be produced in an environmentally friendly manner. PV cells provide a renewable energy source which contributes to climate protection whilst ensuring sustainable development.

In May of 2010, we invited a major sample of main contractors, councils, architects and project managers to take part in a national survey aimed at gauging the current level of understanding and opinion of photovoltaic cells in the construction industry.

The results of the survey follow and we are sure you will find them interesting.

We welcome any feedback, comments or questions about the results. You can present these by emailing info@ipsukltd.co.uk

1. Have you ever used photovoltaic systems on any of your previous projects?
   

   The majority of respondents have used photovoltaic systems on previous projects. However, almost a third have not.




2. Do you intend to use photovoltaic systems on any of your projects in the next 12 months?
   

   Just under a half of respondents intend to use photovoltaic systems on their projects in the coming year. Over a third of respondents are unsure if PV will have a place in these projects.




3. Do you think photovoltaic sustems provide a worthwhile return on investment for most consumers?
   

   These results would suggest that whilst there is some positivity about the ROI, there remains a great deal of uncertainty. The current governement estimates are available on the DECC website.




4. What percentage of your budget would you allocate to a photovoltaic system?
   




5. Are you aware of the difference between Monocrystalline/multicrystalline Silicon and Amorphous Silicon?
   

   There are different types of photovoltaic cell, each with its own merits. Different applications may require different PV technology.




6. What do you consider a suitable payback period in years?
   




7. Are the aesthetics an issue for yourself regarding photovltaic installations?
   

   The majority of respondents do consider the aesthetics of pv panels on their projects.




8. Would you consider upgrading your current roof, increasing the thermal efficiency and have a PV installed to give your roof a payback, plus also reduce your carbon output?
   




9. Do you consider the weight loading of photovoltaic systems when designing / constructing your building?
   




10. Are you aware that in addition to the feed in tariff, you can also be paid by your electrical supplier for electricity you produce and feedback into the grid?
    

    The majority of respondents are aware of the various financial incentives that are available for producing renewable electricity.