Climate

Harness the Sun and reap the savings with a Solar Power system

Published

3 years ago

October 18, 2023

Celtic Green Energy answers your most burning questions about Solar

Cross Hands based Celtic Green Energy are one of Wales leading renewable energy specialists who have been serving the whole of mid, south and west Wales for the last 10 years. With a small team of energy experts and installers, the company prides itself on experience, best value, best prices, high quality and aftercare service. As an early adopter, the company identified early on the huge benefits of solar power for carbon reduction and long term cost savings – last year’s energy crisis certainly highlighted the nations vulnerability to fuel security. With a growing anxiety of rising energy costs, Celtic Green Energy addressed the consumers’ confusion around solar and embarked on a summer roadshow attending regional shows, exhibitions and shopping centres. It was clearly evident that most consumers shared the same concerns, and their team of energy advisors were able to help shed some light on these issues. The most common issues are revealed here.

1. Why should I consider solar power?

The sun is a freely available natural resource that is used to energise Solar Photovoltaic panels. The panels are made up of a number of wafer thin silicon solar cells encased in a durable self cleaning weather resistant panel which in turn are linked to an inverter that generates electricity. Solar PV panel technology has been widely popularised in recent years with huge improvements in performance and cost reductions making them an affordable solution for everyone who uses electricity. If you are a high energy user such as a business, farmer or holiday home owner, a solar panel system will offer you significant reductions in your future energy costs and help sustain your business. We learn in the press of family bakers and butchers being forced out of business simply on their unsustainable rocketing electricity prices.

2. Is solar energy reliable?

Commercial solar panel systems are a relatively new phenomenon having been popularised only within the last 15 years. The solar PV panels absorb the sun’s rays during daylight including cloudy or overcast weather – if it’s daylight, they are working! Even after dark, there is a solution with Solar Batteries where excess generated electricity is stored and retrieved at night dispensing with the need for expensive National Grid power. With continually emerging technology and improving performance, Solar PV panels are guaranteed to last at least 25 years so represent excellent value for money. As there are no moving parts and performance degradation is miniscule, the solar panel system offers excellent reliability. The Solar Battery and inverters are usually guaranteed for 15 years with extended warranty programmes readily available.

3. Will it be a burden on my finances?

Purchasing a solar power system is an investment that does carry a significant upfront cost, however, this will be soon outweighed with the long term benefits and assured fuel security. As every home or business is unique, so is the design of a solar power system – the solar installer will tailor a scheme to best suit your individual circumstances including a site visit to identify the location parameters and discuss the customer’s needs. Most schemes will see the investment repaid within 4 years, some commercial schemes could be repaid in as little as 14 months, so you will no longer be subject to soaring energy prices and be reassured your investment was worthwhile. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may even be eligible for funding assistance with various prevailing Government schemes to install a solar power system.

4. How do I choose the right provider?

The million dollar question! The Solar Power industry is seeing a deluge in businesses offering installations, from the main utility providers to ‘have-a-go-Jo’s’ ready to make a quick buck. The Solar industry does have very strict regulatory guidelines and consumers are advised to check out MCS accreditation for their local suppliers. If their supplier does not offer MCS certification, they may find that their system may not be compliant with the National Grid and excludes connection and any warranty privileges. Consumers are also reminded that the cheapest solution is not always the best option, we are learning of rogue dealers ‘plug and run’ practices, leaving customers in the lurch with ineffective installations, no aftercare or warranty. Thankfully Celtic Green Energy has a longstanding provenance of quality workmanship and exemplary aftercare with the necessary credentials to provide the best possible solutions for their customers.

5. What about maintenance?

Solar Photovoltaic panels are relatively maintenance free as they have no moving parts and are self cleaning. Depending on certain locations however, some installations are advised to have annual maintenance checks for any signs of wear and tear such as extreme weather damage, moss growth, birds, detritus and traffic pollution. Given the high technology construction, the panels are relatively durable within normal conditions, but consumers are advised not attempt to maintain them themselves as this could cause unnecessary damage such as invasive pressure washers etc. Most reputable installers offer maintenance and service packages.

Sum up…

Next time you awake to a fresh morning cuppa and look out to a sunny day, remember that sunshine could be providing you with free electricity to power your kettle – as well as your washing machine, cooker, television, charging your electric car and lots, lots more! The possibilities for solar power are endless, so if you are concerned about your rising energy costs and want to do something about it, make your next step be a phone call to Celtic Green Energy who will be able to advise you on the best way forward. You can call their energy helpline 01269 500388 or learn more and visit their website at www.celticgreenenergy.co.uk

Here’s to brighter tomorrows and sunnier savings!

Climate

Offshore wind offers ‘positive route’ for Wales’ energy future

Published

2 hours ago

June 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Countryside charity says renewables must be built in the right places

A WELSH countryside charity has backed offshore wind as a major opportunity for Wales, saying it can deliver clean energy, skilled jobs and coastal regeneration without putting unnecessary pressure on rural landscapes.

CPRW, The Welsh Countryside Charity, said comments by Cabinet Minister Adam Price in support of offshore wind marked a positive direction for Wales’ renewable energy future.

The charity said offshore wind offered one of the clearest ways for Wales to meet its future electricity needs while reducing pressure for large-scale onshore developments in sensitive upland areas, peatlands, productive farmland and rural communities.

The issue has become increasingly prominent across Wales as communities respond to major renewable energy proposals, including new-generation wind turbines, pylons, substations and grid infrastructure.

CPRW said it supported the transition to renewable energy, but argued that Wales needed a planned national strategy rather than a system which left rural communities reacting to speculative applications.

The Welsh Government has also identified offshore wind as a key economic opportunity, particularly around ports, supply chains, manufacturing, maintenance, skills and long-term energy infrastructure.

Floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea is seen as especially important for south west Wales, with Milford Haven and Port Talbot both linked to future green energy and port development.

Dr Jonathan Dean, CPRW energy specialist, said: “Adam Price is making some very encouraging noises. Wales absolutely needs renewable energy, but we also need to be strategic about where it goes.

“Offshore wind has the potential to revitalise the economy in both north and south Wales, with genuine long-term service and support jobs linked to ports, maintenance, skills and supply chains.

“It can deliver clean electricity at the scale Wales needs, without forcing unnecessary trade-offs with our most valued landscapes, upland peat, rare habitats and rural communities.

“This should be the direction of travel for Wales: ambitious, strategic and offshore-led.”

CPRW said Wales must ensure that renewable energy development brings lasting benefit to Welsh communities, rather than simply exporting power and profit elsewhere.

Jonty Colchester, Chair of CPRW, said: “CPRW strongly supports the transition to renewable energy, but it must be planned properly and in the public interest.

“Offshore wind gives Wales a major opportunity to lead: creating skilled jobs, supporting coastal communities and delivering clean energy, while helping to protect the countryside and landscapes that are central to our national identity.

“We welcome the Minister’s comments and urge Welsh Government to put offshore wind, marine energy, grid modernisation and Welsh supply-chain benefit at the heart of a clear national energy strategy.”

The charity said offshore wind should sit alongside marine energy, grid upgrades and stronger community benefit arrangements.

It added that a strategic approach was needed to protect landscapes, nature and rural communities while still delivering the scale of clean power needed for the future.

CPRW, formerly known as the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales, has worked for nearly 100 years to protect rural landscapes and promote sustainable development.

Climate

Offshore wind ‘could bring new generation of jobs to Milford Haven’

Published

1 day ago

June 17, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Pembrokeshire ports and Celtic Sea projects placed at centre of Wales’ green energy ambitions

MILFORD HAVEN and Pembroke Dock could be at the heart of a new offshore wind boom after Wales’ new energy minister said the sector could drive jobs, investment and coastal regeneration.

Adam Price, the Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, told the Global Offshore Wind 2026 conference that Wales was “open for business” and ready to work with industry, the UK Government and The Crown Estate.

For Pembrokeshire, the announcement is particularly significant. The Milford Haven Waterway is already being positioned as a key base for floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, with Pembroke Port earmarked as a major renewables hub. Plans for a dedicated floating offshore wind storage compound at Pembroke Dock have already secured planning permission.

Mr Price said: “I believe that the offshore wind sector has the potential to deliver high quality sustainable career opportunities for people in Wales.

“The offshore wind sector has a key role to play in bringing about the regeneration of coastal communities in both north and south Wales.

“Our role is to remove the blockers faced by the sector — whether in planning, access to finance or infrastructure.”

The Celtic Sea floating wind programme is expected to create major supply chain opportunities for Welsh ports, engineering firms, vessel operators and training providers. Marine Energy Wales has said the first 4.5GW of floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea could create more than 5,300 jobs during construction.

The Port of Milford Haven has previously said the Haven’s existing energy expertise, heavy engineering base and deep-water port facilities make it well placed to support the industry.

Mr Price also welcomed UK Government support for Port Talbot, but Pembrokeshire businesses will be watching closely to ensure Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock receive a fair share of the investment.

Jessica Hooper, Director of RenewableUK Cymru, said offshore wind was “Wales’ next big industrial opportunity”, adding that it could be worth almost £5bn to Welsh businesses and deliver more than 3,000 long-term secure jobs.

For Milford Haven, long associated with oil, gas and marine industry, floating offshore wind could mark the next chapter in the Haven’s energy story.

Climate

Royal Welsh Show visitors urged to travel sustainably

Published

1 week ago

June 11, 2026

Tom Sinclair

VISITORS to this year’s Royal Welsh Show are being encouraged to use public transport as organisers look to ease congestion and promote more sustainable travel.

The show takes place at the Royal Welsh Showground in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, from July 20 to 23, and is expected to attract thousands of people from across Wales and beyond.

The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society said rail and bus services would provide convenient options for showgoers, with free shuttle buses running from Builth Road railway station to the showground, which is just over a mile away.

Discounted admission

Visitors travelling on the Heart of Wales Line with a valid rail ticket will be able to buy discounted show admission tickets from conductors and ticket offices along the route.

The discounted prices are £35 for adults and £11 for children. Children under 16 can travel free by train when accompanied by a fare-paying adult.

Transport for Wales said rail services would connect visitors from across Wales and the borders, including routes from Cardiff through some of Wales’ most scenic countryside. TrawsCymru bus services will also provide another option for those travelling to the event.

Family activities

Transport for Wales and Network Rail will also have an interactive stand at the show, offering family-friendly rail safety activities and entertainment.

Activities will include VR headset experiences, story time sessions, badge-making classes and rail safety performances. Builth Wells Male Voice Choir is also due to visit the stand on the first day of the show.

Children under 16 travelling to the show by train on the Heart of Wales Line will be able to collect a free activity sheet on board and hand in their completed artwork at the Transport for Wales stand for a chance to win a prize.

Visitors are being urged to plan their journeys in advance through the Transport for Wales website and journey planner.

Travel encouraged:

Visitors to the Royal Welsh Show are being urged to consider rail and bus services this year (Pic: RWAS).