FAQs

Your most frequently asked questions about solar panels

Here you’ll find the answers to the questions we get asked the most about solar panel installation. If your question isn’t answered below, feel free to send us a message and we’ll be delighted to help you.

How much money can I save with solar panels?

Solar panels can cut your energy bills by up to 90%, and over the lifetime of your system, your savings can total tens of thousands of pounds. They’re also a great way to achieve energy security, and you can earn money from any excess energy you generate and feed back into the National Grid.

How much you save and earn from your solar panel system depends on your energy usage, the size, shape and orientation of your roof, and your home’s location. And for every enquiry we receive, we visit in person. This helps us gain an in-depth understanding of the property and your energy needs, so we can design a system that offers optimal efficiency and maximum savings.

How long will my solar panels last?

Solar panels are strong and durable, and come with a performance guarantee of up to 25 years. While it’s true that solar panels lose efficiency as they age (at a rate of about 0.5% a year), even after 25-30 years, your panels will still be producing 85% of their original output. So, you’ll be generating your own electricity for decades.

How long does installing solar panels take?

The length of time it takes to install solar panels is based on the scale and complexity of the project. Factors that can affect installation time include: the number of panels required, the work needed to run cables through your property where applicable and, of course, the great British weather.

Most standard residential installations will take a maximum of 3 days, with very little disturbance to your home and daily activities. Integrating the system into your existing electrical supply is very straightforward; your power will have to be turned off briefly (usually for about an hour), and this can be done at a time that suits you.

Wherever we work, we ensure it is left as we found it. We’ll even clean your gutters if we’re up on the scaffolding and see that they need doing!

My Roof is not South Facing – Can I Still have Solar Panels?

Absolutely! Solar panel systems work well on east or west orientations and can also generate significant energy on some shallow-pitched north elevations. Our panels don’t require constant direct sunlight; they continue to work even in overcast weather.

Your solar system will be tailored to work with your property and energy needs to ensure you get the best possible return on your investment. Micro-inverters or SolarEdge power optimisers can also be added to your system to make sure your renewable energy source is running as efficiently as possible.

Can I earn money from excess energy?

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government-backed initiative that earns you money for any excess electricity you feed back into the National Grid.

Most homes with solar panels will produce more energy than they need at certain times of the year, especially in summer. The SEG enables energy suppliers to pay you for the surplus electricity you send to the grid. You need to meet certain criteria and sign up for the scheme with a chosen energy supplier, but we can help you access the SEG scheme.

What areas do you cover?

Where we work depends largely on the type and scale of the project, but here’s a rough guide to where we cover:

Residential solar installations: West Sussex, East Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey
Ground-mounted solar installations: West Sussex, East Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, Dorset, Devon
Commercial solar installations: West Sussex, East Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire, Kent, Hertfordshire, Dorset, Devon

“We are always happy to answer your questions, just drop us a line and we will do our best to give you the answers that help you make the right decision”

Do Solar Panels Require Planning Permission?

No, in most cases, you won’t need planning permission for solar panels, as it is included within your Permitted Development Rights.

However, there are some exceptions to this. For example, if you live in a listed building or within a Conservation Area, you may need planning permission. We can help you navigate the planning process before your solar project begins. You can also find out more on the Planning Portal.

Will solar panels add value to my home?

It’s possible that solar panels will add value to your home, but estimated increases vary between 2% and 14%, so the current data is not conclusive. However, it is likely that energy security and clean, renewable energy sources will become increasingly attractive to homeowners as time goes on, so there’s a wealth of reasons why solar panels are a worthwhile investment.

How much maintenance do solar panels need?

Solar panels don’t have any moving parts and are fairly low-maintenance. But over time, weathering and other environmental factors – dead leaves, traffic pollution and bird droppings – can affect your panels’ performance. We recommend having them cleaned annually to ensure they continue working as efficiently as possible. You’ll find our top solar panel maintenance tips on our blog.

Can I add battery storage later?

Yes, absolutely. Many customers start with panels only and add battery storage later, and we design systems to give you the option for future expansion. However, it is worth bearing in mind that installing batteries at the same time as solar panels can be more cost-effective.

Will I have to use electricity from the grid at night?

Yes, generally you will. Most residential properties have limited roof space, so having a system big enough to cover winter usage over the longer nights with lower daytime-generated energy is not really possible.

The good news: over the course of a full year, the extra energy you sell back to the grid (on the right SEG tariff) will offset your winter usage, giving you a much lower annual bill overall.

Solar batteries can also provide further savings, as they can be charged overnight for those on flexible tariffs with cheaper electricity at night.

Can I have solar panels on a flat roof?

Yes, you can! Solar panels on a flat roof is a great idea, but there are a few extra steps you’ll need to consider. Most flat-roof systems are held in place with heavy weights, so it is important that your flat roof has a structural assessment to ensure it is strong enough to take this weight without causing damage.

You should also be aware of the space around the panels, as most systems have a minimum distance to the edge of the roof recommendation; this ranges from 600mm to 1.5m – which of course can have a big impact on the number of panels that will fit. The gaps between the rows of panels are also important: too close and the panels will be shaded by the panels in front and performance will be affected. Contact us and we’ll be delighted to design a compliant flat roof system that delivers the energy you need.

Do solar panels work in winter on cloudy days?

Yes! While solar panels generate more energy in direct sunlight, they still produce electricity on overcast days and throughout winter. The UK receives more than enough sunlight to make solar panels worthwhile – and here in the South East, you’re in the best possible location for a great return on your investment.

Are you fully certified and accredited?

Yes, we are certified by the Micro Generation Scheme (MCS), and backed by the Renewable Energy Customer Code and the Government-endorsed Trustmark Scheme. We’re fully insured, and all the work we carry out has a 2-year workmanship warranty as well as complete product warranties, to give you peace of mind.

If I have batteries installed, will I have power in a power cut?

Unfortunately not. Adding a battery to your solar panel system is a great way of accessing your excess power when the sun goes down, but on its own, a battery will not provide back-up power to your home in the event of a power cut.

This is because most solar and battery systems are ‘grid-tied’, which means they rely on a grid connection – so if that fails, the system will shut down. However, you can install a device called a gateway, which allows the solar and battery to work in the event of a power cut and giving you the opportunity to use your stored power.

If having back-up power is important to you, please let us know and we can factor this into any system designs we provide.

My roof isn’t suitable – could I have solar panels in the garden?

Yes, we regularly install ground-mounted systems and have also designed bespoke pergolas where solar panels have been mounted on top, over gardens, paths, patios and vegetable patches. We love coming up with creative solutions – it’s always worth asking us what’s possible!

FAQs Solar Power Company Worthing West Sussex