Miriam’s journey with solar energy

Miriam’s journey with solar energy

Miriam was unsure if solar panels were right for her home, but after accessing support through a local grant, she discovered they could make a real difference to her energy use and daily life.

House specifications:

House Type: Mid-Terrace Victorian
Number of bedrooms: 2

“I really was not interested in solar at all, but once it was explained to me I could see how it would benefit me.”

Miriam, Homeowner

Background

Miriam had lived in her home for many years and carefully managed her energy use. She monitored temperatures closely but did not believe solar panels were suitable for her property or lifestyle.

 

Assessment

After hearing about a scheme through the council, Miriam explored it further. A home visit helped explain how solar panels could work for her, changing her understanding of what might be possible.

 

Challenges

At the start, Miriam was not convinced that solar panels were right for her home. She believed the roof might not be suitable and assumed the benefits would take too long to see. Like many people, she also thought funding might only be available to those on specific benefits.

There were also concerns about disruption, particularly around work in the loft and how the installation would affect daily life. The process itself could feel unclear at times, with different teams involved at different stages.

Despite these uncertainties, she remained open to learning more, which helped her move forward with greater confidence.

 

Solutions

Through the grant scheme, Miriam was able to install solar panels with financial support. Guidance from advisors helped her understand how the system would work in her home and what benefits to expect.

The installation process involved several stages, including loft work and electrical upgrades. While this did bring some disruption, each part was managed by specialist teams who completed the work in phases.

With support in place and clearer information, the improvements became more accessible and easier to move forward with.

Results

Since the installation, Miriam has seen practical benefits in her day to day energy use. Even small things, like running appliances, now feel more efficient, and she has greater awareness of how energy is used in her home.

There is also reassurance in knowing that some electricity is being generated on site, helping reduce reliance on external supply. The improvements have shown that even homes that may not seem suitable at first can still benefit.

For Miriam, the experience has shifted her perspective, showing that support is available and that making changes can be both achievable and worthwhile.

Who can apply

Anyone can improve the energy efficiency of their home. If you’re looking for funding or support, eligibility can vary depending on where you live and income. Visit our eligibility page to find the guidance and schemes available in your area

Find out more