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Solar PV Panels

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Homeowners or Self Build

See how Greenworks can help you with your Solar PV
System Installation?

Overview

Solar photovoltaic modules generate and store electricity from the sun's energy through the use of rechargeable modules.They produce energy that contributes to the running of appliances and lighting within the home whilst emitting no greenhouse gases.

PV panels can be used with batteries to store energy or connected to the main grid so that excess electricity produced can be sold back, via an electricity meter to measure the export rate.

The systems can be fitted to most buildings and can be installed on roof tiles, within roof tiles or even on the ground. To work at the most efficient levels, panels should face within 90° of south and not be overshadowed by buildings, trees or any obstruction which could block daylight from the unit.

In England changes to permitted development rights for domestic renewable technologies mean that most solar PV installations do not require planning permission as long as they respect certain size criteria. Exceptions will apply for installations on flat roofs, listed buildings and buildings in conservation areas, so checking with planning offices is always suggested.

What are the benefits?

  • They do not generate greenhouse gases, saving CO2 emissions.
  • Grants are available to cover 50% of the installation costs- dramatically reducing the pay-back period.
  • There are a number of installation options available including on-roof, canopy, façade, sky light and complete roof solutions.
  • The PV system can connect in to the local electricity network, any excess can be sold back to the grid. Contact your local electricity provider for further details.

Different types of Solar PV Panel

Photovoltaic systems convert solar radiation into electricity. The simplest systems provide electricity to a building directly but they can also be used with batteries to store energy. PV panels can be stand-alone or mounted to a suitable wall or roof.

Am I Eligible?

In order to install Solar Photovoltaic kits it is important to be competent in the skills required. The processes involved in installation include; Planning and accessing the strength capabilities of the roof, working at height and electric component installation.

In order to be able to benefit from the Government Feed In Tariff Scheme (FITS), solar PV kit and installer must be MCS (mirogeneration certification scheme) approved.

The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is the quality assurance scheme set up to regulate renewable technologies in the UK.

Funding and Grants

The Government has introduced the Feed In Tariff Scheme to encourage the installation of MCS approved, Solar Photovoltaic systems on buildings. Simply put, Energy companies will pay you for power you generate, whether you use it yourself or feed it back into the national grid. The FIT's payments are guaranteed by the Government for 25 years.

You can view or download the below brochures from Greenworks approved suppliers, before requesting an online quote.

Supplied by
Saint Gobain

Supplied by
Grant

Supplied by
Solar Century

Supplied by
Kingspan

Please fill in the form below for one of our renewables specialists to contact you for a no-obligation initial estimate for your Solar PV Panel System.

1 of 2. About You

(Optional)

2 of 2. Project Details

Is this project taking place at the above address?

  • Yes
  • No

Is this a commercial or residential property?

  • Commercial
  • Residential

Please select Job title

  • Large house builder
  • Regional House builder
  • Public sector
  • Regional Builder
  • Local Builder
  • Civil engineer
  • Architect
  • Local authority
  • Self builder
  • Contactor
  • Plumber
  • Pluming contactor
  • DIY
  • Other…

Do you have an account with any of the following St. Gobain companies?

  • Jewson
  • Ashworth
  • Minster
  • Grahams
  • Neville Lumb
  • St. Gobain
  • Gibbs & Dandy

Where are you planning to fit this system?

  • To an existing roof
  • To a new roof or a new build?

What is the approximate timescale for the installation?

1 month

12+ months

6 months

(Optional)

Solar PV Systems FAQs

Q. What are Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems?

Solar Photovoltaic Systems generate electricity using the suns energy and only require day light and not direct sun light to operate. They are a green alternative to reliance on power from the grid which in most cases is generated using the combustion of fossil fuels.

Q. How does a Solar PV System work?

Solar PV Systems work by capturing the suns energy through panels placed, usually, on the roofs of the buildings they intend to supply power to. This captured energy is then fed in to an inverter with converts the DC electricity to AC electricity, the amount of energy generated is then measured using a credit meter. The power is then provided to the fuse box where the house hold electronics can draw from it. Any excess energy is then sold back to the grid under the FiT scheme.

Q. What is the Micro generation Certification Scheme (MCS)?

The Micro generation Certification Scheme (MCS) is a quality assurance scheme designed to regulate the emerging renewable technology market within the UK. This scheme will protect customers from substandard or dangerous installations and technologies by only accrediting individuals and technologies that meet their strict requirements. MCS training is available at the Greenworks Training Academy. For more information please click on the training tab and download our free prospectus.

Can Solar PV Panels work on cloudy days?

Solar PV Panels do not need direct sunlight to create electricity, they just need day light to work, therefore they will create electricity on cloudy days.