Who are RGV and what do they do?

RGV was started in 1967 by my father’s associate Ron, Gary my father, and my Uncle Vic – hence the name RGV.  Over the years we have provided Wiltshire and neighbouring counties with expertise in Plumbing Heating and Electrical services.  We offer a quality service ranging from a minor domestic property fault to commercial Design and Build of over £1m.  We also have an established separate Renewables division specialising in Solar PV and Heat Pumps.

Which Renewables are available from RGV?

We are government accredited under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) to design and install Solar PV (Self generation of electricity), and Heat Pumps (Air and Ground Source).

How do Solar Photovoltaic (PV) cells work?

PV cells are panels you can attach to your roof or walls. Each cell is made from one or two layers of semiconducting material, usually silicon. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers. The stronger the sunshine, the more electricity is produced. PV cells come in a variety of shapes and colours, from grey “solar tiles” that look like roof tiles to panels and transparent cells that you can use on conservatories and glass. The strength of a PV cell is measured in kilowatt peak (kWp). This is the amount of energy (free electricity) the cell generates in full sunlight.

What are the benefits and incentives for installing Renewables?

Installing an MCS certified Solar PV System by RGV has a guaranteed 25 year payment return as illustrated below. Heat Pumps will have a similar incentive, which is to be announced late 2011.  Full details will be listed on our web site when DECC (Department of Energy and Climate Change) confirm.

Why install Renewable products?

Primarily for the financial benefits but also by installing Renewables it has a benefit to everyone in the UK and its future, as we need to reduce the carbon footprint in the production of energy all highlighted daily in the news.

Energy bills are set to increase by 60% by the year 2016*, this has been highlighted by the issues in the Middle East at present.  Supply and Security of energy imports from countries such as Russia are also becoming a greater concern.  By installing Solar PV, basically you turn your property into a mini power station which ultimately alleviates the UK requirements for high cost imports reducing our dependency from other countries.  With returns on investment of 13% (40% tax payer) for installing a 3.68kWp system, this makes it an extremely attractive investment.

* Source Ofgem (2009)