Is there sufficient sunshine in the UK for a Solar PV system to work effectively?
Yes because solar panels are powered by light (not heat) so they do not need to be in direct sunshine. There is sufficient light, even on a cloudy day, for solar panels to extract the energy which they need in order to generate electricity.
How do solar panels work?
Light shining on a solar panel creates an electric field across layers of silicon in each cell, causing electricity to flow.
How long do the panels last?
Solar PV panels have an expected lifetime of 45-50 years. Their performance can decrease over this very long time frame.
What can go wrong?
The inverters that switch DC (direct current) to AC (alternating current) incur a progressive loss of efficiency and may need replacing every 15 years or so.
Is a solar PV system covered by Building Regulations?
Yes our MCS-accredited installer will inform Building Control for you.
Will I need planning permission for my solar PV system installation?
It may be that planning permission is required for your solar PV system installation. If this were the case, then our accredited installer would be able to assist with the planning application and we would be responsible for the cost of the planning application if it were necessary to obtain planning approval.
Will my electricity supply be disrupted during the installation process?
Yes but only for approximately 20 minutes to allow our electrician to complete the installation.
Operation & Maintenance
Do the solar panels need to be cleaned regularly?
No. In most cases, rain will usually do all of the cleaning required.
Are Solar PV panels fragile?
No because solar PV panels are designed to withstand tough environmental conditions and have been shown over many years of operation to be both robust and reliable.
Will you require frequent access for maintenance work?
No, since solar PV systems are designed to require very little maintenance. If it were necessary to perform some maintenance work, then we would contact you to arrange a suitable date and time for access by one of our accredited installers.
What if something goes wrong with the panels?
We monitor the panels remotely. Accordingly we will know very quickly if something goes wrong usually within 24 hours.
Consumption
How much electricity can I use when the solar PV system is in operation?
You can use as much electricity as you wish. If you require more electricity than the amount produced by the solar PV system, then your additional requirement will automatically be drawn from the National Grid via your existing electricity supplier. You will not notice any differences in your property other than a saving in the cost of your electricity.
How can I be sure that I am not being charged by my normal supplier at times when I am using solar PV electricity?
After the solar PV system has been installed, you will use your electricity as normal. If there is electricity being produced by the solar PV system when you use any electrical appliance, then automatically it will use the solar PV electricity first. If there is not sufficient solar PV electricity being produced to meet your needs at any point in time, or if it is night-time, then you automatically will use electricity from your usual supplier.
Other
What will happen when I sell my property?
The benefit of the free solar PV electricity will simply pass to the new property owner.
Will my roof be able to withstand the additional weight?
Our MCS-accredited installer will ensure that your roof structure has sufficient load-bearing capacity to support the weight of the solar PV installation.
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