Energy regulator Ofgem has reported that since April over 10,000 solar systems have been installed with increasing numbers month after month. One main problem is whether supply can keep up with demand; although there are reports that an easing in the shortage of inverters will be implemented into the industry. If this UK market continues to grow, it is a key issue for professional installers to part themselves from high pressure sales tactics. However, the recent fit subsidy review could potentially put hundreds of UK solar panel projects at risk.
There is still questioning of how much price elasticity there s in the market. Many installers are, for example are offering ‘free’ solar panels in exchange for long-term income provided by the feed-in tariff. This is brought about as a way to prove the question of price elasticity, as installations rise alongside cost reductions.
Technology and legislation continues to develop, especially in the UK solar market. There are aims to change the MCS (Micro-generation Certification Scheme) to accommodate building-integrated solar installations.