Question 1

How much do residential solar panels cost?

Accepted Answer

Residential solar panel systems typically cost between £5,000 and £9,000 depending on system size. A 4.8kW system (12 panels) for a 3-bed home costs around £6,000-£7,500. All prices include 0% VAT, full installation, scaffolding, DNO notification and MCS certification.

Question 2

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most residential solar panel installations are completed in a single day. Our experienced team arrives in the morning, installs your panels, inverter and all wiring, and has your system generating electricity by the afternoon. Larger or more complex installations may take two days.

Question 3

Do I need planning permission for solar panels?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Solar panels on residential properties are classed as permitted development in England, so you don't need planning permission. Exceptions include listed buildings, conservation areas, and installations that protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface. We check all planning requirements during your free survey.

Question 4

How much can I save with solar panels?

Accepted Answer

A typical 4.8kW system saves £700-£900 per year on electricity bills based on current energy prices. With Smart Export Guarantee payments for surplus energy, total annual benefits can reach £1,000-£1,200. Most systems pay for themselves within 6-8 years.

Question 5

What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?

Accepted Answer

The SEG is a government scheme that pays you for surplus solar energy you export to the grid. Rates range from 4-15p per kWh depending on your energy supplier. Octopus Energy currently offers the best fixed export rate at 15p/kWh. You need an MCS certified installation to qualify, which we provide.

Question 6

Will solar panels work on my roof?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels work on most roof types including tile, slate, flat and metal roofs. South-facing roofs generate the most energy, but east and west-facing roofs still produce 80-85% of maximum output. We assess your roof during the free survey and only recommend solar if it makes financial sense for you.

Question 7

Do solar panels work on cloudy days?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not direct sunshine. On overcast days they still produce 10-25% of their rated output. The UK receives enough daylight for solar panels to be an excellent investment, with typical systems generating 3,800-4,200 kWh per year in the Midlands.

Question 8

What warranty do I get?

Accepted Answer

You get a comprehensive warranty package: 25-30 year performance warranty on panels (guaranteeing at least 80% output), 12-year manufacturer warranty on inverters, and our own 10-year workmanship warranty covering installation quality. We are here for the long term.

Question 9

Can I add a battery later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our systems are designed to be battery-ready, so you can add a battery storage system at any time. We recommend hybrid inverters like GivEnergy which have built-in battery management, making a future battery addition straightforward and cost-effective.

Question 10

Do solar panels increase my house value?

Accepted Answer

Research shows solar panels add an average of 14% to property values. They also improve your EPC rating, which is increasingly important for buyers and is now a legal requirement for rental properties (minimum EPC C). A home with solar is more attractive, more energy efficient, and cheaper to run.

Residential Solar Panel Installation Across the Midlands

Why Go Solar?

Cut Bills by 70%

Earn from SEG Exports

Add 14% Property Value

Reduce 1.5 Tonnes CO2/Year

Our Residential Solar Packages

3.6kW Starter

4.8kW Popular

6.4kW Premium

How It Works

Free Survey

Custom Design

Installation

Registration & Handover

What's Included

Add Battery Storage

Finance Available

Frequently Asked Questions