SOLAR PANELS INSTALLATION

Although the UK has a reputation for dismal weather, solar panels can generate a significant amount of electricity. The UK gets enough sunlight to make solar panels a feasible option. Furthermore, solar technology has advanced dramatically, and panels are more efficient and can capture even weak sunlight.

There’s also the consideration that installing solar panels may increase the value of your property and make it more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers, if you ever want to sell. Energy-efficient homes are increasingly sought after in the UK housing market.

Almost all solar panels have a manufacturer’s guarantee that ensures their performance for 25 years. This guarantee indicates the panel’s anticipated lifespan. However, it’s interesting to note that solar panels can continue to generate electricity well beyond the guaranteed 25 years, with some still producing energy after 40 years.

Regular maintenance will ensure your solar panels’ long-term performance and efficiency. While solar panels are low maintenance, a few simple steps will maximize their output.

We advise visually inspecting your solar panels once or twice a year to look for signs of damage, such as cracks, loose connections, or nesting creatures. It’s also important to see if nearby trees have grown and are shading the panels. Branches that cast shadows on the panels should be removed.

Cleaning solar panels occasionally helps you get optimal performance. Dirt, dust, leaves, and other debris may gather on the surface of the panels, meaning less output. Cleaning involves using a soft brush or sponge or hosing them down without a low-pressure cleaner. Consider using our professional cleaning and solar panel maintenance service if your solar panels are very high up or in a hard-to-reach location.

You can usually install solar panels in the UK without planning permission. Most residential properties fall under permitted development rights, which allow specific home improvements without planning permission.

However, the solar panels should not be installed on a listed building or within a conservation area without prior consent from your local authority.

While planning permission is often not required for solar panel installations, it’s always best to seek professional advice before proceeding. Our solar installers have experience working within planning regulations and can provide guidance specific to your location and circumstances.

The orientation and angle of a roof affect solar panel efficiency. South-facing roofs typically receive the most sunlight throughout the day, making them the ideal direction for solar panels. However, east and west-facing roofs can also be suitable, albeit with slightly reduced energy production. North-facing roofs get the least amount of sunlight and will produce less energy. The ideal pitch of a roof is between 30 and 45 degrees for optimum performance.

Shade will affect the output of solar panels. Even partial shading can lower their productivity. During our free no-obligation survey, we check for potential shading issues, such as trees, buildings, or chimneys.

Before installing solar panels, we make sure the roof is structurally sound. Solar panels have a long lifespan, typically lasting 25 years or more, so it’s important that the roof can support their weight for decades to come. If your roof is due for repairs shortly, addressing those issues before installing solar panels is advisable.