Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to the excess electricity my solar panels produce?
When your system produces more electricity than you need, the excess flows back into the grid. Your energy provider compensates you with bill credits or direct payments for every kilowatt-hour exported. Rates and rules differ depending on your location, so our team will review your local export schemes to ensure you get the maximum financial return.
How much does a complete solar system cost?
Your total investment covers all essential hardware - panels, inverter, and mounting equipment - alongside professional installation and applicable taxes. Overall costs depend on system size; for example, a typical 5kW setup generally ranges from £10,000 to £15,000 before available incentives. We provide transparent, fully itemised quotes tailored to your area, including any relevant VAT relief and regional discounts.
How long does the solar installation process take?
From initial contact to completion, the process moves efficiently. We typically complete your site survey within the first two weeks, followed by a custom design tailored to your home within about a week. The physical installation itself is fast, usually taking just 2 to 5 days depending on the system chosen. Please note that while the panels go up quickly, final commissioning paperwork from the DNO (Distribution Network Operator) can take up to two months to fully process, unless it can be fast-tracked.
How much maintenance do solar panels need?
Solar panels require very little upkeep. We recommend a simple annual inspection and routine cleaning whenever dust, pollen, or debris begins to dip system performance.
Will I still need to use grid electricity if I have solar?
Yes, in most cases. Remaining connected to the grid gives you a reliable, seamless backup when solar generation dips, such as overnight or during heavily overcast days. While going completely off-grid is possible, it demands a substantially larger and costlier battery bank. Most homeowners opt for a hybrid setup with battery storage, generating 60% to 80% of their power on-site while drawing only minimal top-up energy from the grid. We will tailor your system design around exactly how energy independent you want to be.
What solar incentives are available and how do I apply for them?
Available incentives include national VAT relief, local authority grants, green mortgages, and export tariffs such as the Smart Export Guarantee. During your initial consultation and site survey, our advisors evaluate your property to identify every scheme you are eligible for. We assist you with the necessary paperwork to make claiming as straightforward as possible, ensuring you benefit from peak returns and systems built ready for battery storage.
While relocating your solar panels to a new home is technically possible, it is rarely cost-effective. Removal and reinstallation can cost up to 50% of the original installation price. Decommissioning and transporting a system carry the risk of equipment damage, along with new connection approvals and roof compatibility considerations at the new property. In most cases, leaving the system in place to boost your home’s market value and installing a tailored, modern setup at your new address offers a much better return. However, if relocation is your preferred route, we do offer this service in select areas.
Can I relocate my solar system if I move?
Are permits required for installation?
Most installations require electrical permits, local authority approvals, and formal grid permission from the network operator. Our team manages the paperwork from start to finish, including grid connection applications, structural assessments, and final safety sign offs. The full approval process usually takes two to six weeks.
What are the financial benefits of solar energy?
Installing solar can cut your electricity bills by 50% to 100%, depending on the size of your system and household energy habits. Most homeowners see a full return on investment within 5 to 8 years, paving the way for 20+ years of essentially free electricity. Beyond immediate savings, solar acts as a long-term buffer against rising energy rates while boosting your property’s market value, with studies showing an average increase of 3% to 4%.
What is the lifespan of solar panels?
Modern solar panels are built to last 25 to 30 years, experiencing less than half a percent of efficiency loss each year. While panels have exceptionally long lifespans, inverters typically need replacing once every 10 to 15 years. Even after three decades of service, your panels will still generate around 80 percent of their original power output. To guarantee long term reliability, we install equipment exclusively from Tier 1 manufacturers backed by 30 year performance warranties.