FAQ's

There is no such thing as a silly question

Taking control of your own energy is a daunting prospect, below are some of our most frequently asked questions. We are always happy to discuss your project and answer further questions, just give us a call.

Will I Qualify for Export Tariffs?

The SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) launched on 1 January 2020 and is a government-backed initiative. The SEG requires some electricity suppliers (SEG Licensees) to pay small-scale generators (SEG Generators) for low-carbon electricity which they export back to the National Grid, providing certain criteria are met.

SEG Licensees determine the rate which they will pay SEG Generators, the contract length and other terms. Generators thinking of applying for a SEG tariff should therefore shop around to see which tariff is best for their individual circumstances.

Source: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-and-social-schemes/smart-export-guarantee-seg

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

Absolutely. Solar panel systems work well on east or west orientations, and even on some shallow pitched north elevations, solar systems can generate significant energy. This means properties with a large energy bills but without a big south-facing roof can still take advantage of free, clean solar energy.

What’s more, our photovoltaic cells don’t just require direct sunlight – they continue to work in overcast weather. We are able to customise your solar system to work with your property, and micro inverters or solar edge power optimisers can be added to make sure that your renewable energy source is running as efficiently as possible.

How Much Money Can I Save with Solar Panels Installed?

Solar is a great way to save on your energy bills, but also a great way to provide energy security. How much you can save and earn is all dependent on your own energy usage and size/shape of roof you have available. During our home visit we gain a full understanding of your energy usage and then design a system that suits you and provides the most amount of electricity.

On top of this, the annual saving over the lifetime of the system can run into the tens of thousands, providing a very appealing return on investment. Our proposals display all of this information to help you make an informed decision.

Will I Have to Use Electricity from the Grid at Night?

The simple answer to this is generally yes you will. Most properties have limited roof space so having a big enough system to cover winter usage over the longer nights with reduced daytime generated energy is not really possible.

The good news is if you look at a system over a year, then if sized correctly for your energy requirements then the extra energy you sell back to the grid (on the right SEG tariff) will offset your winter usage giving you a much reduced annual bill.

Solar Batteries can also provide further savings and can be charged at night for those on flexible tariffs that have cheaper electricity at night, providing further savings.

“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?

In most cases, getting solar panels installed does not require an application for planning permission, as it is included within your Permitted Development Rights. Certain homes and businesses, however, will require planning permission. If you live in a listed building, or within a Conservation Area, then we are always available to provide any guidance or assistance you might need with planning advice and planning permission before the project begins.

You can find out more on the planning portal: https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission

How Long Will My Solar Panels Last?

Solar panels are strong and durable, and solar panels come with up to twenty-five year performance guarantee. Panels lose efficiency as they age at a rate of about 0.5% per year, meaning after 25-30 years your panels will still be producing 85% of their original output.

Performance after this will decrease slowly over time, but they do not just stop working. You will be generating your own electricity for decades.

Source: https://ratedpower.com/blog/solar-panels-degradation/

Once I Have My Solar Panels Installed, Do They Require Much Upkeep?

Solar panels don’t have any moving parts and are largely maintenance-free. Over time though, weathering and other environmental factors such as dead leaves, traffic pollution and bird poo could begin to affect the performance of your solar panels so it’s a good idea to have your solar panels cleaned annually to ensure that they are working as efficiently as possible.

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

Adding batteries to your solar panels is a great way of having access to your excess solar power when you the sun goes down. This doesn’t mean that you have power during a power cut. Solar inverters require a link to the grid and if lost so is the ability to use your own electricity. This is the default system set up and if back up power is required then there are options to provide this service.

FAQ’s Solar Power Company Worthing West Sussex