Thomas Edison 1931
Panel Range Over 50kW
Any array over 50kWp will need to be looked at on a job by job basis. At this level the costs can vary much more than on smaller arrays due to extra costs. For example the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) may need to upgrade the network in order to except the electricity or on a ground array an environmental impact assessment may need to be carried out or a long planning process may increase costs.
GHE Solar have been involved in 5 major developments around the 500kWp mark (See Thatcham Solar Park case study) and therefore can advise with some authority on these arrays.
Our advice at the present moment is not to look at anything over 50kWp as the government are in the process of a fast track review looking to reduce the tariffs over this level in order to stop large scale ground arrays springing up all over the country.
The tariffs at present are as follows:-
| Scale | 2011 tariffs including first RPI rise | Duration of tariff |
| >50-250 kW | 12.9p/kWh | 25 years |
| >250 kW | 8.9p/kWh | 25 years |
| Standalone | 8.9p/kWh | 25 years |
