What is Solar PV?

Solar electricity panels, also known as Solar Photovoltaics (PV for short), use the energy from the sun to produce electricity that you can use within your home in the same way that solar calculators have for many years.

By installing solar panels you will not only reduce your bills by generating your own renewable electricity, but you will also reduce your carbon footprint and increase your EPC rating, which may provide you with lower mortgage rates (see here and https://moneyweek.com/personal-finance/mortgages/green-mortgages-how-do-they-work-rates-cashback). Whilst this applies at present (January 2026), this may change in the future.

How do solar panels work?

When ultraviolet light shines on the cells within your solar PV panels, a flow of electricity is created by the layers of semi-conductors that makes up each cell. These semi-conductors are commonly made from silicon which gives solar PV its distinctive dark blue to black colour.

The radiation collected generates DC (direct current) energy, the same as that stored in batteries.

An inverter then converts this into usable AC (alternating current) electricity that can then be used in your home.

Any energy that is not used can be sent back to the grid or diverted to either batteries or Solar Electric Storage heaters for use at a more convenient time.

The panels don’t actually need direct sunlight to work meaning that they can produce electricity on even the most overcast of days. They work best, and produce the most electricity, when they are facing directly south, however, they work well one West and East facing roofs as well.

Benefits of Solar PV

• Reducing your energy bills by up to £650 per year (according to Energy Saving Trust based on 4 bedroom detached property in London – savings will vary according to location, system size, your usage and cost of electricity)
• Reduces your carbon footprint
• Contributes to a sustainable future
• Increases your home’s Energy Performance rating

How long will it take to install?

Once we receive your enquiry we will arrange for a surveyor to visit your home and take measurements of your roof and determine the angle and orientation of your roof. Ideally, you want roof that faces south, east or west and is pitched at around 30 – 35°.

Once we have these measurements you will receive a no obligation quotation which will give you an idea of how much money you will be able to save by installing Solar PV at your property.

Installation of a Solar PV system will generally no longer than a day. After installation you will receive a warranty for all the products installed in your home, including an insurance backed workmanship warranty.

I’m a Landlord, can I get any help?

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) came in to effect in April 2018 and means that all rented properties must now have a minimum energy efficiency rating of band ‘E’ unless exempted.

However, from 2025, all properties rented on new tenancies must meet a minimum energy efficiency rating of Band ‘C’ and properties with existing tenants must be brought up to this standard by 2028. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to £30,000.

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