Renewable energy companies in Yorkshire are experiencing a surge in demand for solar panels, driven by rising oil prices following the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Firms have reported a dramatic spike in inquiries, with some seeing a tenfold increase compared to normal.
Mark Houldsworth, managing director of Solar Plus Yorkshire Ltd in Boroughbridge, said his company typically receives around 15 inquiries per month but has fielded approximately 150 so far in April. He noted that while customers often mention environmental benefits, the primary motivations are cost savings and a desire for greater control over their energy supply.
“We have been busy since the Ukraine war began,” Houldsworth said. “That had a big impact, and Covid also drove a surge when energy bills shot up. But this is on another level now.”
Gavin Andrews of Leeds Solar reported a similar trend, with a 50% increase in inquiries since the start of the Iran war, doubling the number from the same period last year.
Homeowner Chris Simpson, who accelerated his plans to install solar panels on his Great Ouseburn home, explained: “All these geopolitical events are well outside my control. But I can control what my house does. Generating my own energy makes me less reliant on global instability.”
The conflict has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, pushing crude prices higher.
However, experts caution that solar panels are not suitable for every home. Emily Seymour, energy editor at Which?, advised consumers to obtain independent solar feasibility surveys and compare quotes from multiple installers before committing.
A potential downside is supply chain disruption, as most solar panels are manufactured in China and shipped to the UK. Houldsworth warned that stock shortages could slow installations if the conflict persists.
“It’ll probably take a nosedive if stock isn’t available for a while,” he said. “Anything like that will have a dramatic effect, and it’s impossible to predict.”