Once the preserve of dedicated environmentalists, solar panels are now accessible to the general public and small businesses, which can buy them in high street shops.

The Telegraph notes that solar panels reduce power bills, add to the value of property and assist in saving the planet, too.

Rob Adams, who had solar panels fitted at his home, said:

"The ones we had installed are integrated, which means they take the place of roof tiles...they paid for themselves fairly quickly. I don't know anyone who has an electricity bill as low as us - it's £9 a month."