About this service
Solar photovoltaic panels generate DC electricity which an inverter converts for use by the property and export to the grid. The electrical installation includes panel strings, DC cabling, isolators, inverter, AC circuit, generation metering, protection and monitoring.
A useful design starts with roof condition, orientation, shading, current electricity use and future plans such as battery storage, EV charging or a heat pump. Panel count alone does not show how much generated energy will be used on site.
Common problems we help with
Roof space is shaded or fragmented
Chimneys, trees, dormers and roof orientation affect string design and expected generation.
Consumer unit or supply needs alteration
The existing distribution and earthing arrangement must support the generation connection.
Inverter location is poorly chosen
Heat, noise, access, cable routes and network connectivity affect reliability and maintenance.
Generation does not match consumption
A large array may export much of its output if daytime loads and storage are not considered.
How we carry out the work
Survey roof and electrical installation
We assess usable roof areas, shading, structure coordination, meter position, distribution and cable routes.
Design modules, strings and AC connection
Equipment compatibility, protection, isolators, monitoring and future storage are planned.
Install, commission and explain monitoring
Electrical tests, inverter setup and system documentation are completed with safe shutdown demonstrated.
What is normally included?
- Initial discussion about the property, symptoms, priorities and timescale
- Assessment of the relevant circuit, equipment, access and existing protection
- A written scope for the proposed solar panel installation work
- The agreed installation or repair work, with disruption kept to a reasonable minimum
- Inspection, electrical testing and appropriate handover documentation
Before the work starts
- Current consumption, proposed generation and the customer’s operating priorities
- Existing metering, distribution equipment and available installation space
- Equipment compatibility, monitoring and safe shutdown arrangements
- Whether backup operation, time-of-use tariffs or future expansion are required
What affects the price?
The price depends on the existing installation and the amount of work required. For solar panel installation, the main factors normally include:
- System capacity and equipment specification
- Cable routes, access and distribution alterations
- Monitoring, backup and control functionality
- Testing, commissioning and coordination with other installers
Testing, certificates and handover
Once the installation work is complete, we inspect and test it and provide the records that apply to the job.
- Operating modes and monitoring demonstration
- Electrical test and commissioning records
- Isolation and shutdown information
- Equipment documentation and maintenance expectations
Solar Panel Installation questions
Will solar work during a power cut?
A standard grid-connected system normally shuts down. Backup operation requires equipment specifically designed and wired for it.
Do panels need direct sunshine?
They generate in daylight, but output falls with low light and shading.
Can I add more panels later?
Possibly, but inverter capacity, string design, roof space and connection limits should be considered at the outset.
Booking the work
What happens after you contact us
1. Discuss the job
Tell us about the property, the symptoms or the result you want. Photographs and model numbers are often helpful.
2. Inspect and quote
We check the relevant installation and give you a written quotation showing what is included.
3. Complete and test
We carry out the agreed work, verify it electrically and explain any controls, labels or certificates at handover.