Should I install solar panels on my roof?

If your roof faces another direction as you can likely still see plenty of benefit from installing a solar array. East and west facing roofs are also suitable for solar panels and will still see a good deal of energy generation throughout the course of the day.

How many solar panels can be installed on a roof?

Your roof will need to be large enough to fit a suitable number of solar panels, as there’s rarely much point putting just two or three panels up there. The average solar panel takes up 2m², and your installer should leave around 40cm on each side of the array, as well as 3cm between every panel.

Can solar panels be mounted on a flat roof?

For solar panels on a flat roof, mounting systems are slightly different and can include a triangle 'ballast' box to support the panels. For solar thermal panels (with cells that use the sun's heat to warm water in a house) things are a little different.

Which type of roof is best for solar panels?

The best type of roof for solar panels is a south facing roof as they tend to generate the most electricity from solar panels. South facing roof panels see the sun when it is at its most intense for the longest period of time, which is why they generate the most energy.

Can you install solar panels on a roof in the UK?

The majority of UK homes have a roof suitable for solar panel installation. Great news for anyone looking to generate their own renewable electricity. If you'd like to speak to an MCS certified (or equivalent) solar installer for advice – you can get free no-obligation quotes from up to 4 solar installers in your area using Solar Guide.

Can a south facing roof be used for solar panels?

South facing roof panels see the sun when it is at its most intense for the longest period of time, which is why they generate the most energy. However, this doesn't mean that east or west facing roofs can't also be suitable for solar panels.