By Sarah Macklin 
We’re certainly in a climate crisis, and while we try to play our part as individuals, it sometimes doesn’t feel like we’re doing enough.
I certainly have climate change anxiety, and get worried about what our planet will look like in 10, 20, 50 years’ time. What will the environment look like for our children and grandchildren?
It seems I’m not alone in this either, as new data shows that 60% more solar panels were delivered in 2022 than in 2021. This not just beats the previous year’s record of 25%, but it smashes it. So what is the reason for such a large increase? Shiply, the people behind the data, reveal more.
Why are Brits now turning to renewable energy?
The UK has committed to a promise of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and, whilst the government is moving towards that goal, some Brits have decided to take matters into their own hands. Many are turning to renewable energy sources in an effort to not only help the environment and reduce their carbon footprint but also to try and reduce their energy bills in the ongoing cost of living crisis. Solar panels lead the way in renewable energy for consumers, with 2022 seeing 60 per cent more delivery requests than 2021.
The trend over the last five years shows a huge solar panel delivery increase of 285% (i.e. the number of solar panels delivered to UK homes by Shiply).
Shiply’s founder, Robert Matthams, commented: “With energy bills as high as they are at the moment, and public consciousness focused heavily on the climate crisis, it is no surprise to see a steady increase in the moving and purchasing of renewable energy sources such as solar panels. I expect to see an even greater increase in public interest over the next few years.”
Shiply, founded in 2008, is an online transport marketplace that aims to cut down on wasteful CO2 emissions. They utilise empty space in lorries and vans, finding people who have goods to move and matching them with lorries already going in that direction. Over 25% of lorries and vans run empty of cargo and 50% run only part-full. This is a huge waste of fuel, and Shiply aims to reduce such wastage.
The site allows users to list their delivery requests on the site and receive multiple quotes in return from transport services with space for delivery.
How do solar panels make a difference?
Solar panels have become increasingly popular because of the promise they can reduce your energy bills, and you’ll see a return on investment within 10 to 15 years of installation. After this time has passed, you’ll continue to save money on your bills and your panels will have paid for themselves.
They’ve become even more popular thanks to increased electrical technology, such as cars and heating systems. It’s likely that our homes will use more electricity than ever before, and the more electricity we use that has come from a renewable source, the better. And instead of sourcing it elsewhere, it’s more efficient to produce your own.
Solar panels can create enough electricity to power certain devices around your home. They likely won’t cover all of your electricity usage, but they’ll certainly be able to cope with a large percentage. Any you don’t use can be sold back to the National Grid, saving you even more on your bills.
