FAQ’s
Do I need a South-facing roof for Solar Panels?
Do I need a South-facing roof for Solar Panels?
Solar panels perform best when situated on rooftops facing South, Southeast/Southwest, or East/West. Although South-facing installations yield the highest electricity generation, panels oriented towards due East or West still operate at around 80% efficiency compared to their South-facing counterparts.
How much roof space do I need for solar panels?
How much roof space do I need for solar panels?
Solar panels generally occupy an area of 1.8 to 2 square meters each. In the context of a typical three-bedroom semi-detached house, each side of the roof can typically accommodate up to eight solar panels. This means that a total of 16 panels can be installed on the roof of such a property, providing ample space for harnessing solar energy.
How long does it take to install a solar panel and battery system?
How long does it take to install a solar panel and battery system?
Most residential solar panel installations are finalized within 1-2 days. Typically, scaffolding will be set up the week before our installation team arrives, and we generally keep it in place for an additional week to ensure proper equipment functionality.
Commercial PV systems, being larger in scale, require more time for installation. For instance, a 250 kW (500 panel) PV system typically takes around 10 days to complete.
Can I sell energy back to the grid?
Can I sell energy back to the grid?
For systems under 50 kWp (100 panels), you can join the Government's Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), offering rates between 3-6 pence per kWh. Some suppliers, like Octopus Energy, offer up to 15 pence per kWh.
For larger systems over 50 kWp, surplus energy can be sold through an Export Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) at around 15 pence per kWh. We can help secure the best deal through our broker network.
What ongoing service and maintenance do solar panels require?
What ongoing service and maintenance do solar panels require?
Regular maintenance is essential for the optimal performance and longevity of your solar PV system. We recommend scheduling an annual service tailored to your system’s size and equipment.
Our comprehensive maintenance package includes routine inspections, repairs, and component replacements. Our team will provide full details of the service and associated costs. Regular servicing maximises energy generation and helps identify potential issues early, ensuring efficient and uninterrupted renewable energy for your home or business.
What happens with planning permission?
What happens with planning permission?
The majority of our domestic retrofit installations are conducted as permitted development, thus eliminating the need for planning permission in most cases. However, we strongly recommend that all customers seek individual advice on planning, as interpretation of guidelines may vary among local authorities.
Should you require it, we can assist by preparing and submitting planning applications on your behalf, or provide drawings if you opt to handle the application process yourself, albeit at an extra cost. For further information on specific requirements, please refer to the solar panel section on the planning portal website.
ZenGen is a trading name of IC Electrical Installations Ltd, serving residential, commercial, and light industrial clients across West and North Yorkshire since 2014. With highly qualified engineers and experienced surveyors, we offer expert, honest guidance - no high-pressure sales. Committed to sustainability, we provide solar panel installations, EV charging solutions, and commercial electrical services, ensuring top-quality, reliable solutions for a low-carbon future.
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Office: White Rose Mills, Holdsworth Rd,
Halifax, HX3 6SN
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