Why should I combine Solar, Battery Storage, and an EV Charger?

Combining all three creates a complete home energy ecosystem. You generate your own power (Solar), store the excess for later use (Battery), and charge your electric vehicle with self-generated energy (EV Charger). This is the best way to maximise savings and achieve energy independence, though you can start with any component and add others later.

Can I get just solar panels or just a battery storage system?

Yes. You can start with solar panels to reduce your daytime energy bills, or install a battery alongside your existing solar (a 'retrofit') to store your unused solar power. We design bespoke systems and can easily advise on a phased approach that suits your current needs and future goals.

How long does it take for the system to pay for itself?

The payback period typically ranges from 4 to 10 years, depending on your system size, installation cost, current energy usage, and local electricity tariffs. This time is often shorter for households that regularly use battery power or charge an Electric Vehicle at home.

Will this setup eliminate my electricity bill?

It can significantly reduce your bill—often by 80-100% of your current usage. While you will likely still have a standing grid charge and may occasionally pull from the grid (especially in winter), you dramatically reduce the amount of electricity you buy.

Installation & Maintenance

How long does the installation process actually take?

For a standard residential system (panels, inverter, and battery), the physical installation usually takes 1 to 2 days on-site. The entire process, from your initial free survey to system switch-on, typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, as it includes system design, equipment ordering, and paperwork submission (like DNO notification).

What happens during the free survey?

Our certified surveyor will assess your property's suitability. This includes checking your roof's direction, pitch, and structure, looking for potential shading issues, assessing your current electrical setup (meter and fuse box), and advising on the best location for your inverter and battery. It's a key step to ensure your custom system delivers maximum performance.

Is planning permission required for installation?

In most cases, no. Domestic solar, battery, and EV installations fall under permitted development rights. However, if you live in a Listed Building or a conservation area, or if the system exceeds certain size limits, specific permissions may be required. We handle all necessary checks and paperwork for you.

Do I need to clean the solar panels?

Solar panels are designed to be relatively maintenance-free. Rainfall usually keeps them clean. However, an annual check-up and occasional cleaning (every few years) may be recommended in areas prone to heavy dust or bird droppings to ensure maximum efficiency.

Solar Panels

Do solar panels work in cloudy weather?

Yes, absolutely. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sunlight. While production is lower on heavily overcast days, your system will still be generating a useful amount of power.

Is my roof suitable for solar panels?

Most roofs are suitable. Ideally, your roof should be south, southwest, or southeast-facing and have minimal shading from trees or nearby buildings. Our free survey includes a full, detailed structural and shading assessment.

How long do solar panels last?

Most quality solar panels come with a performance warranty of 25 years (guaranteeing a certain level of output), but the physical panels can last 30 years or more.

Battery Storage

Why do I need a battery if I have solar panels? Solar panels generate most of their power during the day when you might be out. The battery stores that unused energy, allowing you to run your home and charge your EV at night, maximising your self-sufficiency and savings.

Does the battery provide backup power during a blackout? Many modern systems can provide essential backup power to specific circuits (like lights, WiFi, and the fridge) during a power cut. This feature, known as an 'Emergency Power Supply' or 'EPS', can be configured during the installation to ensure critical loads remain active.

Can I add a battery to my existing solar panel system? Yes. This is called a 'retrofit' installation. We will assess your existing inverter's compatibility and provide options to seamlessly integrate a new battery storage solution, allowing you to store and use more of your generated energy.

EV Charging

Can I charge my EV using only solar power?

Yes, with a smart EV charger, you can set the system to only charge your vehicle using the surplus power generated by your solar panels, ensuring you are driving on 100% clean, self-generated energy.

How fast is a home EV charger?

Most residential chargers are 7kW, which adds approximately 30 miles of range per hour. This is significantly faster and safer than using a standard 3-pin plug and allows for a full charge overnight.

What is a "Smart" EV charger?

A smart charger connects to Wi-Fi and allows you to schedule charging during the cheapest off-peak hours (if using a specific energy tariff) or integrate directly with your solar/battery system to use self-generated power. It gives you full control via a mobile app.