Frequently Asked Questions

Solar panel electricity generation depends on several factors including system size, panel efficiency, roof orientation, shading, and local weather conditions. In the UK, a typical 4kW residential system generates approximately 3,400-3,800kWh annually. Our team provides detailed generation estimates based on your specific property conditions using satellite analysis and local weather data.

Factors affecting generation include:

• System size (measured in kW capacity)
• Panel efficiency and technology type
• Roof pitch and orientation (south-facing roofs perform best)
• Shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions
• Local climate and seasonal variations

Excess electricity generated by your solar panels is automatically fed back into the National Grid through a process called 'export'. You can receive payments for this exported electricity through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, which requires licensed electricity suppliers to pay small-scale renewable generators for electricity exported to the grid.

Your options for excess electricity include:

• Export to the grid and receive SEG payments (typically 3-7p per kWh)
• Install battery storage to use excess energy later
• Use excess energy for heating water or charging electric vehicles
• Time energy-intensive activities for peak generation periods

Yes, solar panels continue to generate electricity in winter and on cloudy days, though at reduced levels compared to bright summer conditions. Modern solar panels are designed to capture diffused light and can generate 10-25% of their peak capacity even on overcast days.

Winter performance considerations:

• Shorter daylight hours reduce total daily generation
• Lower sun angle affects panel efficiency
• Cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency
• Snow coverage can temporarily reduce output but usually slides off quickly
• Annual generation is typically 60% summer and 40% winter

Solar panels typically last 25-30 years or longer. Most manufacturers provide a 25-year performance warranty guaranteeing at least 80% of original output after 25 years. Additionally, panels come with a 10-12 year product warranty covering manufacturing defects.

Warranty coverage includes:

• 25-year linear performance warranty (typically 80% output guaranteed)
• 10-12 year product warranty against manufacturing defects
• Our 2-year installation workmanship warranty
• Inverter warranties ranging from 5-25 years depending on type
• Monitoring system warranties for fault detection

Wind turbines typically start generating electricity at wind speeds of 3-4 metres per second (7-9 mph) and reach maximum output at around 12-15 metres per second (27-34 mph). For optimal energy production, locations should have an annual average wind speed of at least 5-6 metres per second.

Wind speed ranges:

• Cut-in speed: 3-4 m/s (turbine starts generating)
• Rated speed: 12-15 m/s (maximum power output)
• Cut-out speed: 20-25 m/s (safety shutdown to prevent damage)
• Survival speed: 50+ m/s (designed to withstand extreme conditions)

Modern wind turbines are designed to minimise noise. Small domestic turbines typically produce 35-45 decibels at 50 metres distance, comparable to a quiet library. Larger commercial turbines may produce 45-55 decibels at the same distance, similar to moderate rainfall.

Noise considerations:

• Noise levels decrease significantly with distance
• Modern turbines use advanced blade design to reduce noise
• Planning permissions include noise level restrictions
• Background noise often masks turbine operation
• Regular maintenance ensures optimal, quiet operation

Planning permission requirements depend on turbine size and location. Small domestic turbines may qualify for permitted development rights, while larger commercial installations always require full planning permission. We handle all planning applications as part of our service.

Planning considerations:

• Turbines under 11.1m height may qualify for permitted development
• Distance from property boundaries and neighbours
• Environmental impact assessments for larger installations
• Aviation and radar considerations
• Local authority policies and restrictions
• Conservation area and listed building considerations

Modern lithium-ion battery storage systems typically last 10-15 years or 6,000-10,000 charge cycles, whichever comes first. The actual lifespan depends on usage patterns, depth of discharge, operating temperature, and battery chemistry. Most manufacturers provide 10-year warranties with guaranteed capacity retention.

Factors affecting battery life:

• Depth of discharge (shallow cycles extend life)
• Operating temperature (cooler is better)
• Charge/discharge rates
• Battery management system quality
• Maintenance and monitoring

Yes, battery storage can usually be added to existing solar panel systems through a retrofit installation. This typically involves installing an AC-coupled battery system that connects to your existing setup through your consumer unit, allowing you to store excess solar generation for later use.

Retrofit considerations:

• AC-coupled systems work with any existing solar installation
• May require consumer unit upgrades
• Smart controls optimise charging from solar and grid
• Export payments may be affected depending on metering setup
• Installation typically takes 1-2 days

This depends on the type of battery system installed. Some systems provide backup power to essential circuits during outages, while others are grid-tied only and shut down during power cuts for safety reasons. We can specify systems with backup capability if this is a requirement.

Backup power options:

• Whole-house backup (requires larger battery capacity)
• Essential circuits backup (lights, refrigeration, heating controls)
• No backup (grid-tied only for safety compliance)
• Duration depends on battery capacity and load requirements
• Automatic switching typically takes 1-2 seconds

Installation timeframes vary by system type and complexity. Residential solar installations typically take 1-2 days, while commercial projects may take several weeks. Wind turbine installations require 2-5 days depending on size, plus any ground preparation work.

Typical installation times:

• Residential solar (4-10kW): 1-2 days
• Commercial solar (50-250kW): 1-3 weeks
• Domestic wind turbine: 2-3 days
• Commercial wind turbine: 3-5 days plus preparation
• Battery storage system: 1 day
• Grid connection and commissioning: Additional 1-4 weeks

Professional installation should not damage your roof when performed correctly. We use appropriate mounting systems for your roof type, seal all penetrations properly, and conduct thorough inspections. Our installation team is fully trained and insured, and we provide warranties covering workmanship.

Protection measures include:

• Structural surveys before installation
• Appropriate mounting systems for roof type
• Weatherproof sealing of all penetrations
• Protective coverings during installation
• 2-year workmanship warranty
• Comprehensive insurance coverage

You don't need to be present for the entire installation, but we recommend being available at the start and end of each day. Our team will need access to your electrical consumer unit and may require temporary power disconnection during electrical connections.

Your involvement includes:

• Site access and security arrangements
• Brief system overview and demonstration
• Signing off completed installation
• Receiving maintenance documentation
• Setting up monitoring system access

Renewable energy systems require minimal maintenance. Solar panels need occasional cleaning and annual inspections, while wind turbines require more regular mechanical maintenance. Battery systems need periodic performance monitoring. We provide comprehensive maintenance packages to keep your system performing optimally.

Maintenance requirements:

• Solar panels: Annual inspection, occasional cleaning
• Wind turbines: Annual service, gearbox oil changes
• Battery systems: Performance monitoring, thermal management
• Inverters: Software updates, connection checks
• Monitoring systems: Data analysis, fault alerts

All our installations include comprehensive monitoring systems that track performance and alert us to any issues. We provide 24/7 remote monitoring, annual performance reports, and priority support for any problems. Our maintenance packages include regular site visits and preventive maintenance.

Support services include:

• 24/7 remote system monitoring
• Automatic fault detection and alerts
• Annual performance analysis reports
• Priority technical support hotline
• Regular maintenance visits
• Warranty and insurance claim assistance

If your system stops working, first check your monitoring app for error messages, then contact our technical support team immediately. Many issues can be resolved remotely, but our engineers are available for on-site repairs when needed. Most problems are covered under warranty.

Troubleshooting steps:

• Check monitoring system for error codes
• Verify electrical connections and isolation switches
• Contact our 24/7 support hotline: +44 20 7946 0958
• Remote diagnostics often resolve issues immediately
• On-site engineer visit if required
• Warranty claim processing for covered repairs

Costs vary significantly based on system type, size, and complexity. Residential solar systems typically cost £4,000-£8,000, while commercial installations cost £800-£1,200 per kW. Wind turbines range from £10,000 for small domestic units to £1-2 million for commercial installations. We provide detailed quotes after site assessment.

Typical cost ranges:

• Residential solar (4kW): £4,000-£6,000
• Commercial solar: £800-£1,200 per kW
• Domestic wind turbine: £10,000-£35,000
• Battery storage: £4,000-£8,000 for residential
• Installation and commissioning included
• Finance options available for all system types

We offer various financing options including cash purchase, low-rate loans, and lease arrangements. Many customers choose green loans with competitive rates, and some qualify for government grants or schemes. Our finance team will help find the best option for your circumstances.

Available options:

• Cash purchase with early payment discounts
• Green energy loans (typically 3-7% APR)
• Equipment lease with maintenance included
• Power purchase agreements for commercial clients
• Government grants and support schemes
• Flexible payment terms available

Payback periods typically range from 6-12 years depending on system type, energy usage, and electricity prices. Solar systems usually pay back in 8-10 years, while wind turbines in good locations can pay back in 6-8 years. Rising energy prices are reducing payback periods across all technologies.

Factors affecting payback:

• System cost and financing terms
• Energy generation and self-consumption rates
• Electricity price inflation
• Export payments and incentives
• Maintenance costs over system life
• Property value increase (typically 2-4%)

Yes, several incentives are available including the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) for selling excess electricity, VAT reductions on renewable energy installations, and various local authority grants. Commercial installations may also qualify for enhanced capital allowances and other business incentives.

Current incentives include:

• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments for exported electricity
• 0% VAT on solar panel installations (extended to 2027)
• Enhanced capital allowances for businesses
• Local authority grants (varies by region)
• Green finance schemes with preferential rates
• Business rates exemptions for renewable energy