Solar FAQs

Solar Panels
  • A south facing roof will attract the most solar gain across the year, however, a roof that faces east or west would also be suitable for a solar panel installation and will still generate a significant amount of solar energy.

  • Yes, solar panels can be installed on a flat roof. Special mounting systems are used to position the panels at the optimal angle to capture sunlight, ensuring maximum efficiency and energy production.

  • For solar panels to be effective, your roof should receive ample sunlight without significant shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions. Solar panels perform best in direct sunlight, so it's essential to evaluate any potential shading issues. A solar assessment can help determine if your roof gets sufficient sunlight throughout the year.

  • Yes, solar panels will work 365 days of the year. The highest solar gain is in the summer months when we have longer, brighter days. Even in winter months, on a bright clear day, you will still generate a significant amount of solar energy.

  • Absolutely, you can install solar panels in your garden. Ground-mounted solar panels are a great option if your roof isn't suitable or if you have ample space in your garden. They offer flexibility in placement and can be adjusted for optimal sun exposure.

  • Solar panels come with a 20 year performance warranty and the typical life expectancy is around 25 years.

  • To determine if you have enough space for solar panels, consider the size and layout of your roof or the available ground area. Solar panels require a clear, unobstructed surface to capture sunlight effectively. Generally, a typical residential solar panel system requires about 200 to 400 square feet of roof space. Additionally, ground-mounted systems can be an alternative if your roof space is limited.

  • Yes you can. This is a great way of increasing the benefits from your current solar panel system and doesn't affect your Feed in Tariff. You can store the excess energy from your solar generation.

  • A south facing 4kW Solar panel system will produce on average 3500kWh per annum, the average domestic property uses around 4000kWh.

  • In many cases, solar panel installations on residential properties do not require planning permission, especially if the panels are installed flush with the roof. However, if you live in a conservation area, a listed building, or plan to install a ground-mounted system, you might need to seek permission. It's always best to check with your local planning authority to ensure compliance with any regulations.

Solar Batteries
  • The answer depends on a number of factors, including the size of your existing solar panel system and how much electricity you generate. Plus, how much of the generated electricity you export back to the grid throughout the day. It also depends on the size of the battery system itself.

  • The size of solar batteries varies depending on their capacity and design. Residential solar batteries, like the Tesla Powerwall, typically measure around 45 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 6 inches deep. The Fox Ess and Lux Power batteries are smaller.

  • Solar batteries can be installed in various locations depending on space and accessibility. Common options include garages and utility rooms.

  • Depending on the manufacturer, solar batteries will last between 10-15 years.

  • Yes, we can simply swap the old battery with a new battery with minimal disruption.

  • Yes, solar panels can work without battery storage. Without batteries, you rely on grid power when your solar panels aren’t producing electricity, such as at night or on cloudy days. While battery storage is not required, it offers benefits like increased energy independence.

  • Yes, the battery system can be easily retrofitted onto existing systems without any disruption to the solar panel generation.

  • Yes, the stored energy can be used to provide electricity to a whole range of appliances, including electric vehicles.

  • The AC and DC coupled ‘stacked’ system will charge and discharge dependent on the grid code applied for on the installation and the battery/hybrid inverter size. Most common and hassle free is to charge and discharge at 3.6kw rate max.

  • Yes, solar batteries can work during a power outage, but this depends on your system setup. If your solar battery system includes a backup power feature or a hybrid inverter, it can provide power to your home even when the grid is down. Not all solar battery systems offer this capability, so it's important to verify whether your specific setup includes backup power functionality.

  • Some systems have incentives of paying no VAT on the system. Speak to a member of the team to find out more.

  • A solar inverter is a crucial component of a solar power system that converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is used to power household appliances and is compatible with the grid.

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