Question 1

How much does solar cost?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the size of the system, your roof, whether scaffolding is straightforward and whether you add a battery. Rather than guess, we design the system around your home, do a free survey, then give you one fixed price in writing with every part named.

Question 2

Is there VAT on solar panels and batteries?

Accepted Answer

Right now it's 0%. Supply-and-install of solar panels and batteries in homes in Great Britain is zero-rated until 31 March 2027. From 1 April 2027 it rises to 5%.

Question 3

Do I pay a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Payment terms, including any deposit, are set out clearly in your written quote before you agree to anything.

Question 4

Do I need planning permission?

Accepted Answer

Usually not. In England most rooftop solar on houses counts as permitted development. Listed buildings, conservation areas and some flat roofs can be different, and the rules vary in Scotland and Wales. We check before we quote, so there are no surprises.

Question 5

Which way should my roof face?

Accepted Answer

South-facing roofs generate the most, but south-east, south-west and east/west roofs all work well. East/west systems spread generation across the morning and evening, which can suit how you actually use electricity. North-facing roofs are usually less worthwhile, and we'll tell you honestly if that's the case.

Question 6

What about shading?

Accepted Answer

Shade from chimneys, trees or neighbouring buildings reduces output. We look at it during the remote design and again on survey, and can use panel optimisers where they genuinely help.

Question 7

Do I need a battery?

Accepted Answer

No, solar works without one. Without a battery, electricity you don't use during the day is exported to the grid. A battery stores that daytime surplus so you can use it in the evening. Whether it's worth it depends on when you use electricity and your tariff, and we'll talk it through plainly.

Question 8

Can I add a battery later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Where suitable we fit hybrid, battery-ready inverters as standard, so adding a battery later is simple. If you already have solar from someone else, we can check your current inverter and recommend the right way to add one.

Question 9

Will a battery keep my lights on in a power cut?

Accepted Answer

Not automatically. Most systems switch off during a power cut for safety. Some systems can provide backup power with the right equipment and wiring, so ask us and we'll explain what's possible for your home.

Question 10

Will I get paid for electricity I export?

Accepted Answer

Under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), energy suppliers pay you for electricity you send to the grid. To qualify, your installation needs an MCS certificate (or equivalent). We'll explain exactly how certification works for your installation before you sign. Rates and terms vary by supplier.

Question 11

Does solar work in winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, panels run on daylight rather than heat, so they generate all year. You'll get most from spring to autumn and noticeably less in the short, dull days of winter.

Question 12

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

Usually one to two days once the scaffolding is up. Scaffolding normally goes up a day or so before and comes down shortly after.

Question 13

Is there much maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Very little. There are no moving parts on the roof. Rain does most of the cleaning, and the monitoring app lets you spot anything unusual. If something looks off, we're a call or email away.

Question 14

What warranties do I get?

Accepted Answer

Manufacturer warranties are named in your quote — panels often carry 25-year performance warranties, and inverters and batteries have their own. You also get a workmanship guarantee, with the length set out in your quote.

Question 15

Is there a cooling-off period?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You have 14 days after signing to change your mind. See our cancellation & refunds page for the details.

Question 16

Do you cover my area?

Accepted Answer

Pop your postcode in the quote form and we'll confirm.

Questions, answered plainly.

Costs & VAT

Your roof & planning

Batteries

Export & bills

Installation & aftercare

Ready when the sun is.