FAQ's

What are Photovoltaic (PV) Panels?

Photovoltaic panels convert sunlight directly into electricity that can be used to run appliances and lights. Photovoltaic cells generate energy even when it is overcast and cloudy as they absorb scattered light.

How are PV Panels Fitted?

Photovoltaic panels can be mounted on a roof or ground mounted. Ideally the roof will be south facing, or near to at an angle of 30 degrees with the horizontal for optimum performance. The panels produce DC electricity, so a small inverter will be fitted inside the house, to change the DC into AC (used in all normal homes and the Grid). Installation is clean, with minimal disruption and no extra space needed indoors.

What is a grid connected system?

Photovoltaic panels can be connected to the Grid through the local electricity supplier. Surplus electricity can be sold back to the supplier.

How much do they cost?

Installation costs start around £5,000 and go up to around £10,000 for a 4 Kw standard domestic system. The price will vary depending on the size and location of individual installations.

How long does the installation process take?

For an average system, the installation process rarely takes more than a few days, with minimal disruption. Scaffolding is required for work on the roof.

What is the feed-in Tariff?

The Government backed feed in tariff will pay you 21p for every kWh generated, with an additional 3.1p for exported electricity(assumed 50% exported unless an export meter is fitted). For systems up to 10kW the tariff is 16.8p. The interest free payments will be indexed linked and paid for 25 years.

Do we do free installations?

No we don't. See what the Which? report says about "rent a roof" schemes Click here