Solar powered soulmates 💖

Samsam: Are you enjoying the benefits of your solar panels so far?

Keith: Yes, definitely. I’ve got batteries installed too, so I charge them during the cheaper electricity rates and use the stored power during the more expensive times in the day. So, my solar panels have allowed me to transform my home into a fully electric, sustainable space.

Samsam: Amazing! Have you had anything else installed alongside the solar panels?

Keith: Yes, I’ve got a heat pump as well. We’d been thinking about it for a couple of years, and when I decided to switch to all-electric, I thought, "Why not have solar panels, batteries and a heat pump too?" That way, I could generate power from the sun, use the batteries to save even more during peak times and offset the costs of my heat pump. It’s worked out really well!

Samsam: What inspired you to invest in all this green energy tech?

Keith: Initially, it was about being green and saving the planet - then it became about comfort. Heat pumps do that much better and longer than traditional boilers, not to mention cheaper! Once I decided on the heat pump, adding solar panels just made sense—it’s a way to massively cut costs and help the planet at the same time.

Samsam: That’s beautiful! What about savings—have you noticed a difference?

Keith: Definitely! Although, we haven’t had the solar panels for a full year yet, so I’m looking forward to seeing even more savings in the summer months. So far, I’ve already saved lots of money by generating power with my solar panels and storing them with my batteries during the off-peak hours. We’ve been able to keep a super toasty home every day and night this winter, for a fraction of what it cost us before! And as pensioners, that means everything!

Samsam: How did you find the install?

Keith: It was fine—no trouble at all. They got everything fitted and finished in about two or three days.

Samsam: Has it made a big difference in your home?

Keith: Absolutely. The heat pump keeps the house consistently warm, unlike the on-and-off heating of a traditional boiler. The radiators are warm to the touch, and the house feels comfortable all day. It feels great to be helping the planet, and saving money - without any drawbacks.

Samsam: Has it been worth the investment?

Keith: Absolutely! I used a small pension that wasn’t worth much—about £10 a week otherwise—and it covered around three-quarters of the cost. I thought it was a more sensible use of the money, and I’ve already saved more in energy costs than I would’ve received from the pension!

Samsam: What has been the best thing about having solar panels?

Keith: Alongside the batteries, they’ve really helped reduce my electricity costs.

I’m excited to see what the summer brings when the panels start generating more power—I’m hoping to be completely off-grid!

Samsam: How does being green factor into your lifestyle?

Samsam: It’s a big part of it. I recycle avidly - The solar panels and heat pump are just another way to do my bit for the environment while also saving money. I’m very happy with my decision.