Fact Check: "Installations with capacities of 10 kW to 50 kW had a median cost of GBP 1,256 per kW, down 11% on the previous year."
What We Know
The claim states that installations with capacities of 10 kW to 50 kW had a median cost of GBP 1,256 per kW, which represents an 11% decrease compared to the previous year. This information appears to be corroborated by a source that mentions this specific median cost and percentage decrease, indicating a trend in the cost of solar installations in the UK (source-6).
However, the context and methodology behind this data are not fully detailed in the source. The claim lacks comprehensive backing from a more authoritative source that provides a broader analysis of the market trends, inflation adjustments, and comparisons to other capacity ranges.
Analysis
The source of the claim (source-6) is a user-generated post on Reddit, which raises concerns about its reliability. While it presents a specific figure and percentage change, Reddit posts can often lack rigorous verification processes and may not be representative of broader market data.
In contrast, the 2023 CLEAN & RENEWABLE ENERGY REPORT from Connecticut (source-1) provides a more formal analysis of renewable energy costs but does not specifically address the claim about the GBP 1,256 per kW figure or the 11% decrease. This suggests that while the claim may have some basis, it is not sufficiently supported by robust data from reputable sources.
Moreover, the USDA report (source-2) discusses various solar projects but does not provide a direct correlation to the claim regarding costs for specific installation capacities.
Overall, the lack of multiple credible sources confirming the claim and the reliance on a user-generated post on Reddit diminishes the overall reliability of the claim.
Conclusion
Verdict: Needs Research
The claim regarding the median cost of installations with capacities of 10 kW to 50 kW being GBP 1,256 per kW and a decrease of 11% from the previous year lacks sufficient verification from authoritative sources. While there is a mention of this data, it primarily comes from a less reliable source. More comprehensive research and corroboration from established industry reports or studies are necessary to validate this claim.
