Are solar panels easy to install?

Installing solar panels is usually relatively quick and straightforward, but it’s still worth getting to know all the ins and outs of how it happens. After all, considering how much solar panels cost, it makes sense to understand the process.

How do I choose a solar panel?

Find out more about types of solar panels and other buying advice for solar panels. To help decide which type of solar cells to go for, look at cost per watt (£/W) of power output. You can do this by dividing the total cost of the solar system you are being quoted for by the total power output of the system.

Do you own solar panels?

You OWN the solar panels. Under these schemes, you pay for solar panels over a fixed period, say 20 years. There are no upfront costs, and instead you pay a monthly fee, which usually covers the solar panel and battery installation, repairs and maintenance.

Can solar panels be installed on a flat roof?

You can install solar panels on a flat roof, but it’s not usually a good idea for domestic properties.

Can solar panels be shaded?

Finding an unshaded spot is best, but sometimes shading is unavoidable. Some solar PV systems can minimise the impact of shading using ‘optimisers’. Solar panel optimisers help improve the overall performance of your solar panel system. So, if one panel is shaded, it doesn’t impact how much electricity the other panels can generate.

Can solar panels be installed on a roof that faces north?

Solar PV panels are not recommended for a roof that faces north. You also need to consider both the age of your roof and how strong it is, as PV panels are heavy. Shade could be a big problem for solar panels, so no panels should be installed where there is shade from trees, chimneys, walls or other obstructions.