Your solar panel questions answered.
Here you’ll find the answers to many common questions surrounding solar panels.
This will vary from home to home, but you will need to consider factors such as sunlight exposure, roof orientation, roof condition and integrity, available roof space and energy consumption.
As a general rule, the installation of solar panels falls under “permitted developments” so planning permissions are not usually required however, we would suggest that you refer to your local planning office to double-check before proceeding. If your home is listed or within a conservation area, then you will certainly need to obtain permission before proceeding.
Approval for any installation will be needed from the District Network Operator (DNO). This is usually applied for under a G98 or a G99 application depending on amp size however, this is something that we will obtain and complete on your behalf in most instances.
The answer to this question will depend upon the size of your roof and how much energy you will consume as a household however, given the rising costs of energy, generating your own via the installation of solar panels will mean you are less reliant on your provider thus reducing your bills.
The energy produced by solar can also be stored in a battery (see FAQ on battery storage).
Selling energy back to the supplier is sometimes another avenue to generate income.
The VAT element of solar installations has been removed until April 2027.
Typically, you will need to calculate your average energy requirements, your current usage in watts (this should be detailed on your utility bills), the amount of sunlight in your location and the size and efficiency of the panels you are considering installing. This is something that we can calculate for you though should you wish to obtain a quotation.
No two homes are the same. Please contact us for a quotation so we can investigate this for you.
Solar panels will enable you to power your property through daylight absorbed during the day. Once the sunsets, the panels will absorb substantially less energy which may result in you switching back to your energy provider to power your home in the evenings.
Smart batteries allow you store additional energy that you have not used to power your home.
Essentially, the more power you generate and store, the less you will be required to buy. However, they are not compulsory when installing solar panels and they can be added to the system at a later date.
Prior to any installation we will need to survey your loft to check the integrity of the roof and rafters to ensure that it is safe for the panels to be installed. Once the roof is given the go ahead, scaffolding will be erected, and the installation of the panels will start. Depending on the number of panels to be installed, the actual installation will take between 1-4 days.
The installer/and a roofer will lift some of the roof tiles and fit anchors to the rafters. This will ensure that they stay firmly in place. A mounting system will then be attached which will run vertically and horizontally. This system will be positioned to give optimum exposure to sunlight. Once this is set up, the panels will be secured.
The next step is to connect the panels to the inverter. An inverter converts the direct current electricity into alternating current electricity. This process can take several hours and will usually be installed close to the breaker panel.
Once installed, the engineer will then connect the inverter the consumer unit and test.
If you chose to have a battery installed at the same time as the panels, then this would also be inverter.
No maintenance is required on the panels. Rainfall will help to keep them clean.
Warranties are typically 25 years depending on the manufacturer.
Your electric bill should start reducing as soon as the panels are installed, subject to energy production and household consumption.
Our installation engineers are fully insured, MSC accredited and follow strict installation instructions and health and safety guidelines.
We would always advise that you check with your home insurer before you have any works undertaken, just to make sure your solar panels are included.
From efficiency to warranty length and durability. Here you’ll find the answers to many common questions surrounding Trina Solar panels.
Trina Vertex solar panels have a high efficiency rating, with some models reaching up to 21.3% efficiency.
Trina Vertex solar panels utilise advanced PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) technology, which enhances light absorption and increases overall efficiency.
Absolutely. They are suitable for both residential and commercial installations. They offer high power output and efficiency, making them a great choice for homes.
Trina Solar provides a 25-year linear power output warranty on their Vertex solar panels, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
Yes, Trina Vertex solar panels are designed to be durable and withstand various weather conditions. They are built to withstand high winds and heavy snow loads.
Yes, Trina Vertex solar panels feature a sleek and elegant design, making them visually appealing when installed on rooftops or in solar farms.
Yes, Trina Vertex solar panels with PERC technology are designed to absorb light efficiently, even in low-light conditions, ensuring continuous electricity generation.
Trina Vertex solar panels are lightweight and compact, making them easier to handle and install. They also come with mounting instructions.
Yes, Trina Vertex solar panels are environmentally friendly as they generate clean energy without emitting harmful greenhouse gases. They contribute to reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change.
Yes, Trina Vertex solar panels can be used in off-grid applications when combined with batteries to store excess energy for use during periods of low sunlight or at night.