I'm in the process of arranging to have solar panels put onto the garage roof (photovoltaic cells) so that we can generate electricity to use and feed into the grid.  Does anyone have any experience of how to sign up for the feed-in tariff?  I am using a certified installer, but I'm just not sure how to get everything registered so that I get some pay-back (if the sun shines).

Am I mad to think that selling electricity to the national grid is a good idea?

Toffeeapple, I had heard about these companies on the radio - however, I am looking at this as a bit of an investment, so by 'investing' the cost of the solar panels I should be able recoup the investment in approx 10 years and then make a profit (as well as reducing my electricity bills).  This relies on the new government continuing the existing scheme, but then there is always a risk with investing.  I am really excited by the idea of being able to do something green as well as hopefully reduce my reliance on being a wage slave in the future.  I do realise that solar panels alone will not mean I can give up work tomorrow ..... but it's all about little steps isn't it?

I saw a similar article from the Sunday Times a few weeks ago, it seems that if someone else pays (and takes the profit from the feed-in tariff) that you are basically renting your roof space.  But if you have a suitable roof you do get some free electricity for minimal effort.  That is where my concerns start - I have always believed that if something seems to be too good to be true, then it usually is - but, I really would like to think that renewable energy should play a part in the future.  I'm having the technical survey for my system next week, so all being well I may have some practical experience of the scheme to share in a while.

Hi Danny

A thread on microgeneration would be great, especially if there is a resident expert (extensive research = expert in my book).  The survey for my solar PV installation was OK, so I'm eagerly awaiting a date for work to start.