SOLAR PV SYSTEMS INSTALLATION FAQS

In most cases planning permission does not need to be sought to install a roof-mounted solar PV system as this is covered under ‘Permitted Development’.

Permitted Development Rights now also encompass non-residential buildings. In addition to planning laws it is important to consider ownership/tenant issues when purchasing and installing solar panels. While many commercial site landlords (and tenants) might believe an investment in solar is unworkable the continual upward trend in energy prices coupled with the increasing affordability of solar technology makes solar PV systems an attractive proposition for both parties.

Exceptions

There are a small number of exceptions where planning permission is required. These include:

• Flat roof buildings - if you intend to install solar panels on a flat roof planning permission would almost certainly be required prior to installation, should the panels be fitted at an angle in excess of 0.2 metres above the roof slope (this level of protrusion falls outside of the ‘Permitted Development’ rules).
• Listed buildings - Listed Building Consent (followed by obtaining planning permission) is needed prior to installing structures on a building that is listed or within the grounds of a listed building or within a site that is a scheduled monument
• Conservation areas - if the building is located within a Conservation Area ‘Permitted Development’ may still allow for solar panels to be installed.

In all of the above cases we always suggest to consult with you local authority before purchasing solar technology or carrying out any kind of installation work.

The smallest solar array we sell in our kits comprises eight panels. Typical dimensions of a solar panel are: 2092 mm × 1134 mm × 30 mm (depth) including frame, though exact dimension will vary between models of solar panel. Dimensions for each model of solar panel are outlined in the downloadable data sheets listed in our shop items.

In general terms a solar array consisting of eight panels should fit comfortably onto the roof of a large terraced house or an average three-bedroom semi-detached. While an eight-panel array is at the smaller end of the scale of solar arrays seen on houses and commercial premises a beneficial amount of electricity can still be generated.

Exact weights vary between make and model of solar panel but in broad terms a single solar panel will weigh between 19kg and 21kg.

The number of solar panels required will depend very much on how much energy is used in the home or commercial premises. In simple terms more solar panels means more energy generated. A base level, as mentioned above, would be eight panels for a smaller residential property.

Solar PV system	Required roof space (m2)
3kW	20+
4kW	25+

As long as the roof is strong enough it should be possible to install solar panels.  Their services can be found online for as little as £150. We recommend consulting a structural engineer to confirm the suitability of the roof and the total number of panels that could be installed before placing an order.

Solar panels can be installed on most roof spaces that can accommodate the weight and dimensions of the solar panels and the mounting system. Most designs of roof are suitable including tile roofs, slate roofs, flat roofs and trapezoidal metal roofs (four-sided roofs).

Solar panels could also be installed in less obvious positions such as carport roofs.

If there is sufficient ground space close to the property it is also possible to install solar panels on the ground (again using rails and clamps).

Solar panels are normally fixed to a roof via a mounting system that comprises roof rails, mid-clamps, end-clamps and brackets. These items can be removed at a later if required.

If installed correctly the solar panels and mounting system will not compromise the integrity of the roof. Products such as Hook Stops can mitigate against the risk of damaged tiles.

If you are in any doubt about the strength and integrity of your roof we recommend consulting a structural engineer.

If the visual impact of a solar panel installation is a concern there are several options available to you.

The first option would be to mount the solar panels into the roof (as opposed to mounting them on the roof), so they sit neatly within the tiles. While the time and effort to install them may be greater the panels will appear to ‘blend’ better with the rest of the roof.

A further measure for slate roofs is to purchase black edged solar panels (such as our 405W JA Solar range) to further match the grey/black colour of the slate.

Alternatively solar panels could be mounted on the ground instead of a roof, if there is sufficient space close enough to the property. The angled area under the panels could then be used for storage.

Birds and rodents nesting under rail-mounted panels is a known issue for solar PV system owners. It is easy to see why; the gap between panels and roof tiles is a dry and protected space away from predators and is ideal for nesting. There are a choice of affordable wire mesh and skirting solutions available that will humanely prevent birds and rodents from accessing the space under your solar panels. These can be purchased online from popular auction sites or Amazon. Please contact us if you have any particular questions regarding protecting your panels.

The direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels is converted into alternating current (AC) for use in the home/business via an inverter. The electricity is taken from the inverter to the distribution board through an AC cable, where it is then used to power the lighting system, electrical appliances and so on.

Battery storage is the perfect way to store excess energy generated by your panels. However, if you prefer not to purchase a battery this can be fed back into the grid instead.