Renewed Interest in Solar Panels in Yorkshire
Renewable energy companies in Yorkshire have observed a significant increase in demand for solar panels, a trend attributed to the ongoing US-Israel conflict involving Iran.
With fuel prices escalating, many households are shifting away from traditional oil and gas energy sources. Energy supplier Octopus has reported a 50% increase in solar panel sales, a trend mirrored by local businesses in the region.
Mark Houldsworth, managing director of Boroughbridge-based Solar Plus Yorkshire Ltd, commented on the surge in inquiries.
"We normally get 15 inquiries a month, but we've had around 150 so far in April."
He noted that while customers expressed satisfaction in adopting greener energy solutions, the primary motivations were cost savings and a desire for greater control over their energy consumption.
The rise in crude oil prices, which affects diesel and petrol production, is linked to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage.
Approximately 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas supplies typically transit through this route.
Houldsworth, whose company has been installing solar panels for 16 years, remarked on previous spikes in interest.
"We have been busy since the Ukraine war,"
"That had a big impact similar to this, and also Covid when energy bills shot up - that had a fairly dramatic effect, but this is on another level now."
Similar Trends Reported by Other Providers
Gavin Andrews of Leeds Solar also reported a comparable increase in demand, noting a 50% rise in inquiries since the onset of the Iran conflict.
He added that this figure represents double the number of inquiries received during the same period last year.
Homeowners Respond to Geopolitical Uncertainty
Chris Simpson, a homeowner from Great Ouseburn, shared his perspective on the decision to install solar panels sooner than planned.
"All of these geopolitical events are well outside of what I can control,"
"But I can control what my house does so by being able to generate some energy myself, I'm less reliant on instability across the world."
Originally intending to install solar panels next year, Simpson accelerated his plans in response to the war.
Expert Advice on Solar Panel Investment
Emily Seymour, energy editor at consumer association Which?, advised potential buyers to conduct thorough research before committing to solar panel installations, noting that not all homes are suitable for such systems.
"I suggested getting an independent solar feasibility survey to help 'suss out how much money you might be able to make from solar panels on your roof'."
"If that goes ahead then look for three or four installers to get quotes from, see what they offer and how that's going to work for your home."
Potential Supply Chain Challenges
Despite increased demand, the ongoing conflict may impact supply chains, as most solar panels used in the UK are manufactured in China and imported.
Houldsworth identified supply disruption as the main potential drawback of the heightened interest.
"It'll probably take a bit of a nosedive if the stock isn't available for a while.
Anything like that will have a dramatic effect, and it's impossible to predict that."
Additional Resources
Listeners can access highlights from North Yorkshire on and catch up with the latest episode of Look North for further updates.
