The Merrill Family

The Merrill family, pleased with the installation of their C21e solar electric roof tiles

When the Merrill family from Somerset decide to re-roof their home in May 2006, they also chose to power their home with C21e solar electric roof tiles. Integrating seamlessly with normal roof tiles the solar installation consisted of 40 solar tiles, covering 15m² of roof space.

The Merrill family chose the solar tiles as an effective way to reduce their carbon footprint and their electricity bill, without altering the appearance of their home.

“We really wanted to minimise our carbon emissions by generating our own clean power” says David Merrill. “We liked the solar tiles because they’re a great innovation and very practical.”

The performance of the PV system also outstripped their expectations, generating 1,745 kWh of inflation-proof electricity in the first six months. According to Energy Savings Trust, the average household consumes 3,300 kWh per year.

Since their C21e tiles were installed the Merrill family have consumed an average of 2,406kWh per year, a third less than the average household. Most significantly they have cut their electricity bill by two thirds, down from £150 quarter, to £50 a quarter; a saving of £400 a year.

Mr Merrill is particularly impressed by the impact of the tiles on their house value. Since the installation, the Merrills have had their house re-valued and found their home to be worth 6 per cent more because of the tiles alone. “We’re delighted that our low carbon lifestyle is paying dividends. The financial gains are a fantastic bonus.”

Inside the home a small display unit on the kitchen table shows how much energy is being generated. “The display is a real talking point when the neighbours pop round. It’s certainly taught the kids a thing or two about energy” says Mel.

The Merrills have found that the family have become significantly more aware of their energy consumption, and energy efficiency of their household appliances. “It would be crazy to have the tiles and then waste the clean energy with an inefficient fridge” says Mel.

David Merrill believes the whole family has changed their behaviour to help save energy, even if the kids need a reminder to turn the TV off every once in a while.

In the first six months of installation, the Merrills' roof tiles prevented more than one tonne of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. “At the end of the day I’m saving money and doing my bit to protect the kids' future” concludes David.