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Solar panels as a retirement investment

Peter White examines claims that solar panels could be a sensible investment ahead of retirement. Would prices go up or down if Scotland were to become independent?

The energy minister, Greg Barker, has suggested that installing solar panels on your home could be a good way to invest for your retirement. He believes they could deliver a better return than a traditional pension. But what are the risks, and what are the best predictions for the long term return on your investment?

Most people know they should switch off the data signal on their mobile phone to avoid big bills when going abroad, but after receiving a Β£250 pound bill, one You & Yours listener has been told to switch off his 3G every time he goes into his own house.

What are the implications for consumers if Scotland were to become independent? There have been many claims and counter claims during the referendum debate. But are any of these predictions a useful guide to voters?

A disability charity claims that nine out of 10 disabled people feel discriminated against when they buy tickets to watch live music, because the booking systems are so inaccessible. We hear the challenges faced by disabled concert-goers, and how the industry plans to improve access.

Sales of alcohol are falling in the UK, but an exception is sparkling wine. We explore the British passion for bubbly.

Producer: Jonathan Hallewell
Presenter: Peter White.

Available now

55 minutes

Chapters

  • SCOTLAND CONSUMER

    What would be the impact on consumers of an independent Scotland?

    Duration: 06:07

  • VODAFONE 3G ROW

    The couple stung by a bill after using a gadget to improve the mobile signal in his house

    Duration: 04:56

  • CORNISH POWER PKG

    The experience of living through power cuts in the south west of England

    Duration: 06:52

  • EE HANDSET SCAM

    The couple who faced hefty phone bills for calls they didn't make.

    Duration: 06:31

  • DISABLED TICKETS

    A claimed 90% of disabled people felt discriminated against when buying tickets for gigs.

    Duration: 09:05

  • INTERNET SAFETY

    Samantha Fenwick talks about cyber bullying and internet safety.

    Duration: 04:03

  • PAY PHONES

    How the cost of using your a credit card in a BT phonebox rose to Β£6.50

    Duration: 02:53

  • WINE FAFA

    Sales of sparkling wine are on the up as wine sales overall fall

    Duration: 03:39

  • SOLAR PANEL PENSION

    A minister claims solar panels on your roof can be a better investment than a pension.

    Duration: 10:09

Broadcasts

  • Fri 7 Feb 2014 12:00
  • Fri 7 Feb 2014 12:04

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