Using solar energy to power our homes can be environmentally friendly and is becoming increasingly popular all over the world. Solar panels at your property give you the opportunity to be more independent from the electrical grid while reducing your household impact on the environment.
iFix Electrics will help you throughout the process from initial call to end of installation and keeping track of your Solar Panel journey. We specialises in Solar Power installations both for Homeowners and large-scale commercial clients.
Our installers are MCS certified and registered with National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC). Rest assured your satisfaction will be our priority.
What to Consider Before You Go for a Solar Panel?
Roof Suitability:
Orientation: South-facing roofs are ideal, but east and west-facing roofs can also work well. North-facing roofs are less efficient.
Pitch: The optimal angle for solar panels is between 20° and 50°. We will ensure if your roof meets this requirement for maximum efficiency.
Shade: We will check for any potential shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions that could impact the performance of your solar panels.
Structural Integrity:
Roof Condition: We will ensure your roof is in good condition and can support the weight of the solar panels.
Load-Bearing Capacity: An assessment by our structural engineer might be necessary to confirm that your roof can handle the additional weight.
Energy Needs and System Size:
Energy Consumption: We will evaluate your current energy usage to determine the size of the solar panel system you will need.
System Size: We will inspect how many panels you can fit on your roof and how much energy they will generate.
Legal Requirements for Installing Solar Panels in the UK
Planning Permission:
Permitted Development: Most domestic solar panel installations are considered “Permitted Developments” and do not require planning permission.
Exceptions: Planning permission is required if:
Your home is a listed building.
Your home is in a conservation area, national park, or world heritage site.
The installation does not meet specific conditions (e.g., panels projecting more than 200mm from the roof).
Building Regulations:
Compliance: Solar panel installations must comply with building regulations, particularly regarding structural safety and electrical safety.
Electrical Work: All electrical work must be carried out by a qualified electrician and comply with Part P of the Building Regulations.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC):
Minimum Rating: For eligibility for certain incentives (like the Smart Export Guarantee), your property may need to have a minimum EPC rating of D.
Grid Connection:
Approval: If your system is above a certain size (typically over 3.68kW per phase), you will need approval from your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before connecting to the grid.
Notification: Even for smaller systems, you must notify your DNO after the installation.
When searching for a reliable electrician, call us at +44 7944 499996. We specialize in electrical repairs, indoor and outdoor lighting installations, panel upgrades, and even hot tub wiring!