Will rural photovoltaic panels be stolen

Are solar panels stolen?

By way of example, in August, solar panels worth approximately £10 500 were stolen from an energy farm in Northamptonshire. Solar panel theft is not limited to large scale and commercial solar farms either – homes in remote areas are also vulnerable, with thieves reportedly swiping panels from people’s roofs. Why?

Are solar panels causing a rise in solar crime?

A rise in solar crime means eco-conscious homeowners and farmers who have diversified into renewables should check their security and insurance. The warning comes after police figures revealed a 48 per cent rise in solar panel and cabling theft from 2021 to 2022.¹

Is solar theft a problem in the UK?

Rural theft has long been an issue in the UK. It is a sinister practice, with repercussions that are as much emotional, as they are commercial. After all, for a small farm, solar panels are a huge investment. Not only that, but if solar theft is not brought under control, it will delay the country from reaching its net zero goals.

Why are residential solar panels becoming more popular?

Increased energy prices, the ‘cost of living’ crisis, and the fact that properties with solar panels attract eco-conscious buyers, have contributed to a growth in residential solar panel installations. Homeowners typically install between 10 and 15 panels, with a value of around £7,000.

What if solar theft is not brought under control?

Not only that, but if solar theft is not brought under control, it will delay the country from reaching its net zero goals. With nights growing darker earlier from October, the risk of theft increases, so action must be taken around this issue, and fast.

Why are solar panels so expensive?

One reason is that solar panels include a number of valuable materials, like copper cabling, which is currently very expensive and is, as always, in strong demand. Ironically, the demand comes in part from the renewables sector itself.