Solar PV installation
Expert solar panel installation, designed and installed for you
What solar is, how it works, how it is installed, and how to choose what is right for your property.
How solar PV works
From daylight to usable electricity in three steps
Daylight hits the panels
Photovoltaic cells inside each panel convert daylight into direct current electricity. This happens even on overcast days, though output is lower than in direct sun.
The inverter converts it
Direct current passes through an inverter, which converts it into alternating current. This is the same type of electricity your property uses for every appliance.
You use, store, or export it
Power your property in real time, charge a battery so you can use stored energy after dark, or export surplus electricity to the grid and receive a payment under the Smart Export Guarantee.
System output
What affects how much electricity a solar system generates
No two properties generate the same. These are the six variables a system design must account for.
Roof orientation
South-facing roofs produce the most generation. East and west-facing roofs are still productive and suit split arrays. North-facing is rarely viable as a primary surface.
Roof pitch
Most UK roofs sit between 30 and 45 degrees, which is close to optimal. Flat roofs use angled mounting frames to achieve the right angle to the sun.
Shading
Chimneys, neighbouring buildings, and trees all reduce output. A good site survey identifies shading risk and factors it into the system design before any commitment.
System size
Measured in kilowatts peak, or kWp. A larger system generates more but the right size is determined by your roof space and energy consumption, not a fixed standard.
Time of year
Solar panels generate electricity year-round in the UK. Output peaks in summer and drops in winter, but well-designed systems remain productive throughout the year.
Property location
There is variation in solar irradiance across the UK. The South West receives more annual sunshine than most of England, which supports stronger year-round generation.
Ready to get a quote?
Start your solar journeyInstallation types
Solar panel installation options explained
The right installation type depends on your roof, your property, and your priorities.
On-roof solar PV
Panels sit on a rail system mounted above the existing roof tiles, leaving the tile structure intact. The most common solar installation type. Suitable for almost any pitched roof, straightforward to install, and typically the lowest-cost option.
In-roof (integrated) solar
Panels replace a section of roof tiles and sit flush with the roof line rather than above it. Preferred for new builds, listed area properties, and projects where aesthetics are a priority. Requires slightly more lead time than on-roof systems.
Flat roof systems
Panels are mounted on weighted or mechanically fixed frames angled toward the sun. Common on commercial buildings, garages, and contemporary flat-roof extensions. Ballasted systems require no roof penetrations.
Ground-mounted solar
Panels are installed on ground-level frames rather than a roof. Used where the roof is unsuitable, where more generation is required than a roof can support, or where a larger array is practical. Common on farms and rural sites.
Solar pre-wire
Cabling is installed during the construction of a new property so that solar can be connected later without disruption to finished surfaces. A standard specification item on new build developments. Adds minimal cost at build stage and avoids retrofit complexity later.
System components
What is inside a solar PV system
Solar panels
The visible part of the system, mounted on the roof or ground. Each panel contains rows of photovoltaic cells that convert daylight into direct current electricity.
Inverter
Converts the direct current from the panels into alternating current that your property can use. Usually sits in a loft, utility room, or plant room.
Battery storage
Stores surplus electricity generated during the day so you can use it in the evening. Optional, but significantly increases the share of your own generation you actually use.
Smart meter and monitoring
Tracks generation, consumption, export, and savings in real time. Most modern inverters include monitoring software accessible via a phone app.
How solar panels are installed
What to expect from a competent solar installation
These are the six stages any professional solar installer should take a project through.
Site survey and energy use review
A surveyor assesses the roof structure, orientation, and shading. Your current energy bills are reviewed to understand consumption patterns and right-size the system.
System design based on your roof and consumption
Panel count, inverter type, battery size, and array layout are chosen based on the survey data. The goal is to match your consumption, not simply maximise panel count.
Technical survey to confirm structure and electrical setup
A technical surveyor checks load-bearing capacity, roof condition, and the existing consumer unit. Any electrical work required is scoped before the installation date is set.
Scaffold or access equipment installed
Appropriate access equipment is arranged ahead of the installation. This is coordinated by the installer and usually erected the working day before panels go up.
Panels, inverter, and battery installed and commissioned
The installation team fits the mounting system, panels, and inverter. Battery storage is wired in where specified. The system is commissioned, tested, and connected to the grid.
Handover pack issued with MCS certificate and documentation
You receive an MCS certificate confirming the installation meets the required standard, along with manufacturer warranties, monitoring login details, and a full handover document.
Ready to get a quote?
Start your solar journeySystem longevity
How long do solar panels last
Solar PV is a long-lived technology. Understanding the lifespan of each component helps set realistic expectations for the full ownership period.
Solar panels
Most quality solar panels carry a 25-year performance warranty and continue generating beyond that. Output degrades slowly over time, typically losing around 0.5% per year.
Inverter
Inverters typically last 10 to 15 years. Most systems will require one inverter replacement during the lifetime of the panels. This is a known and predictable cost.
Battery storage
Batteries are usually warrantied for 10 years. Lithium-based batteries degrade through charge cycles and, in time, will hold less capacity than when new.
Maintenance
Solar requires very little ongoing maintenance. An occasional clean to clear debris and an annual inverter check are usually sufficient for a well-installed system.
Planning permission
Do you need planning permission for solar panels
In most cases, no. Domestic solar panel installations in England and Wales are classified as permitted development, which means you do not need to submit a planning application before installation.
There are exceptions. Listed buildings require listed building consent before any work begins. Properties in conservation areas may have restrictions on roof alterations visible from a public road. Flat roof installations on commercial properties are assessed differently from residential pitched roofs.
A competent installer will identify any planning considerations during the site survey and advise before you commit to anything.
Exceptions include
- Listed buildings
- Conservation areas
- Some commercial properties
- World Heritage Sites
Ready to get a quote?
Start your solar journeyCommon questions
Solar PV FAQ
Ready to take the next step
Design a system for your property
If you know your property type, head to the right page for a more detailed picture. If you want to talk it through first, call or email directly.
Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm