Solar PV & Battery Storage

Solar panels work like a big sponge that soaks up sunlight and turns it into electricity that we can use in our homes or businesses.

• Sunlight hits the solar panels: The solar panels are made of special materials that “catch” the sunlight and turn it into energy.
• Turning sunlight into electricity: When the sunlight hits the panels, it makes tiny particles called electrons move around. These moving electrons create electricity.
• Inverter makes it usable: The electricity that the solar panels make is called “direct current” (DC). But most of our home appliances (like your TV or fridge) need “alternating current” (AC). So, the inverter changes DC into AC.
• Powering your home or business: After the electricity is turned into AC, it can power lights, fans, fridges, and other stuff you use every day. You can also store any extra electricity in batteries to use later.

So, solar panels take sunlight, turn it into electricity, and help power your home or business without needing to buy all that energy from the grid!

Battery storage alone can still offer several valuable benefits, especially for those who don’t have the space on their roof for solar panels or those who want a more straightforward, cost-effective solution without the need for scaffolding or installation hassles. By storing energy during off-peak hours, when electricity rates are cheaper, you can take advantage of lower energy costs, helping to reduce your monthly electricity bills. This can be particularly useful in areas where energy costs are high during peak demand times.

Another advantage of battery storage is its future-proof nature. If you decide to install solar panels at a later date, your battery system will already be set up to store the excess energy generated by your solar system, enhancing the overall efficiency and savings. Essentially, you can get started with energy independence now and transition to a full solar-powered system when the time is right.

Yes, solar panels can still generate electricity in cloudy weather or cold climates. While sunlight is less direct on cloudy days, panels can still capture diffuse sunlight. In colder climates, solar panels can actually perform better because they are more efficient at lower temperatures. However, snow buildup or very cloudy conditions can reduce efficiency temporarily.

The installation of solar panels typically takes between 2-7 days for your home and 1-3 weeks for your business, depending on the size of the system, roof type, and complexity of the installation. The process involves site assessment, panel mounting, wiring, and system testing. Installation time can vary based on weather conditions and the experience of the installer.

A solar system’s energy output depends on factors like system size, location, and the amount of sunlight received. On average, a 4kW domestic solar system in the UK can produce around 3,400 kWh of electricity annually, which is usually sufficient to meet the energy needs of a typical household.

For commercial solar installations, the energy output will be significantly higher. For example, a commercial system with 50 solar panels, each rated at 400W, can produce around 20,000 kWh annually. Similarly, with 250 solar panels at 400W, the total output can increase to about 100,000 kWh annually, depending on factors like roof orientation, shading, and geographical location.

Solar panels typically last between 25-30+ years. Over time, they experience slight degradation, losing about 0.5% to 1% of their efficiency each year. Most panels come with a 25-30 year warranty, which guarantees their performance will remain above a certain threshold for the majority of their lifespan.

Yes, solar panels can increase the value of your property. Studies show that homes with solar installations typically sell for more than those without. Solar panels can improve energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers, which makes the property more attractive on the market.

The payback period for solar panels typically ranges from 3 to 15 years, depending on the system size, location, and energy usage. After the payback period, the system can continue to generate free electricity for many years, providing substantial savings on energy bills.

To determine if your roof is suitable for solar panels, several important factors need to be evaluated, including:

• Roof Condition: A structurally sound roof is essential for supporting the weight of solar panels. Before installation, it’s crucial to inspect not only the roof’s surface but also the underlying structure, including the roof trusses and purlins. These supports must be strong enough to handle the additional weight and stress of the panels over their 25+ year lifespan.
• Roof Orientation: South-facing roofs typically perform best in the UK, as they receive the most sunlight throughout the day. However, east- and west-facing roofs can still be effective, though they may have reduced efficiency.
• Roof Pitch: The ideal pitch for solar panels is between 30° and 40°. Panels installed on steeper or flatter roofs may still work, but may require additional considerations during installation to optimize energy capture.
• Shading: Trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings that cast shadows on your roof can drastically reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. A roof with minimal shading from noon to late afternoon is ideal for capturing the most energy.
• Roof Material: The type of roofing material is also an important factor. Concrete tiles, slate, and asphalt shingles are commonly used for solar installations, while roofs made of metal or certain lightweight materials may require additional mounting hardware.

Professional Roof Inspection

For a comprehensive evaluation of your roof’s suitability, a professional installer will perform a Free Roof Survey. This inspection will assess the overall roof condition, the integrity of the structure (including trusses and purlins), and the environmental factors affecting sunlight exposure. They will also check for any potential issues that may need addressing, such as roof repairs or reinforcement, before installation can proceed.

Solar panels require very minimal maintenance once installed. In most cases, they are nearly self-cleaning, especially if they are installed at an angle, as rainwater helps wash off any dust or debris. However, if you live in areas with heavy snow, bird droppings, or moss buildup, you may need to clean the panels more frequently. In such cases, it’s best to clean them once or twice a year to ensure they remain efficient.

While the panels themselves require little upkeep, it’s recommended to have a professional inspection annually. This can help ensure that the system is functioning at its optimal capacity, check for potential issues, and make sure everything is operating smoothly.

If you’re unable to access the panels for cleaning, or simply prefer not to do it yourself, you can have a window cleaner clean them when they come around. They’re usually equipped with the tools needed to safely clean solar panels without causing damage.

Excess energy produced by your solar panels can either be stored in batteries for later use, sent back to the grid, or consumed directly within your home or business.

Once your batteries are fully charged, it is highly recommended that any surplus energy be used within your home or business. This allows you to maximise the financial benefits of your solar system, as exporting energy to the grid usually yields lower rates compared to the higher cost of importing electricity from the grid. Many energy providers offer credits or payments for the electricity you export via net metering, but using the energy within your property ensures you make the most of it.

Additionally, storing excess energy in batteries helps you maintain a continuous supply during non-sunny hours, such as in the evening or on cloudy days, ensuring that you reduce reliance on the grid while optimising the value of your solar installation.

For example, you could use the stored energy to power appliances such as:

• Heat Pumps: During cold months, you can power a heat pump system with stored energy, ensuring warmth without increasing your electricity bill.

• Air Conditioning: On hot days, you can use your solar energy to run air conditioning systems, keeping your home or office cool.

• EV Chargers: For electric vehicle owners, charging your car during non-peak hours using solar energy stored in your batteries can save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Yes, you can still install solar panels on a roof made of asbestos, but extra care must be taken during installation. Asbestos removal may be required before proceeding with the installation. If the asbestos is in good condition and undisturbed, some companies may be able to install solar panels over it, but an assessment by a professional is needed.