Solar Panels are becoming increasingly popular, with data from MCS suggesting there have been just under [1]1.5 million solar panel installations carried out across the UK.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to help you understand the solar panel installation process. From the key considerations before making the decision, right through to what to expect from the installation process.
What Things Should You Consider Before Installing Solar Panels?
Before moving forward with solar panel installation, it’s essential to evaluate several important factors to ensure your home is a good fit. A thorough initial assessment can help determine whether your roof is suitable for supporting a solar energy system and if solar is the right solution for your needs. This assessment will look at the following:
- Which direction does your roof face? – The direction that your roof faces can determine how much output you would get from your solar panel. South-facing roofs are able to capture the greatest amount of energy; with east-facing roofs generating electricity in the morning, and west-facing roofs receive the sun in the afternoon or early evenings.While solar panels can be installed on most properties, we wouldn’t recommend investing in solar panels if your roof is north-facing, as you wouldn’t generate enough energy to make it a worthwhile investment.
- What solar setup do you want or need? – Installing a solar panel on its own with an inverter is the cheaper option, allowing you to generate electricity for free while the sun is shining. However, incorporating a solar panel battery with your solar panels allows you to store excess electricity, so you can use it outside of daylight hours. Find out more in our ‘Solar Panels vs Solar Panels + Battery’
For more information to help you make the decision on whether to install solar panels, our blog ‘Is Solar Right For Your Home: A Guide to Domestic Solar’ should answer any other queries.
Who is Responsible for Installing Solar Panels?
While a general electrician will know about installing electrical work, they are likely to lack the expertise and specialist training when it comes to solar panel installation.
While it is not a legal requirement to be MCS certified to install solar panels, opting for a solar panel installer who has this accreditation means they have carried out the relevant training and can install your solar panel to a high standard. Many electricity suppliers will not provide SEG payments without an MCS certificate
At Lincs Renewables, we are proud to say that all of our electricians are experienced and MCS certified, giving our customers peace of mind that work is completed to the highest of standards.
The Installation Process: How Long Does it Take to Install Solar Panels?
Now that you’ve determined solar panels are the right choice for your home and selected the best package for your needs, it’s time to move on to the installation.
Below, we’ve outlined the solar panel installation process in 7 straightforward steps:
1. Scaffolding – To allow the installer to set up your solar panels, they will first need to construct scaffolding around the building.
- Installation of the Mounts – The mounting system, also known as the racking system, is securely attached to the roof structure. This system will support the weight of the solar panels. The angle and orientation of the mounts are adjusted to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.
- Mounting the Solar Panels – Solar panels are carefully attached to the mounting system using clamps or bolts. Each panel is aligned for optimal sun exposure and secured to withstand wind and weather. Installers will ensure that the panels are spaced correctly and connected in series or parallel according to the system design.
- Securing the Electrical Wiring – Once the panels are mounted, electrical wiring is installed to connect them to the inverter. For safety and routing wires through a conduit to avoid exposure. Proper waterproofing and cable management are essential to protect the wiring from environmental damage.
5.Install the Inverter and Battery (if applicable) – The inverter, which converts the DC electricity generated by the panels into AC electricity for home use, is installed near the main panel or inside the home. If you’ve chosen to install a solar battery, it is installed and connected at this stage. Some systems also include a monitoring device to track energy production in real time.
- Connect to the Grid – The solar system is connected to the home’s electrical consumer unit and, in most cases, to the utility grid. A licensed qualified electrician handles this step, ensuring all connections meet local codes and utility requirements. A smart meter may also be installed by the utility company to measure how much energy is sent back to the grid.
- Test the New Solar Panels – After everything is connected, the entire system is tested to ensure it operates correctly and safely. This includes checking voltage output, inverter performance, and monitoring system functionality. Once confirmed, the system is activated and commissioned, you can start enjoying a cleaner, cheaper way to enjoy energy.
Overall, the process of installing solar panels is quite straightforward, and isn’t too much of a lengthy one either. As a rough guide, we’d say a day to set up the scaffolding, and 1-2 days for the installation depending on size and access ability.
Looking for Solar Panel Installation in Lincolnshire?
If you’re looking for a trusted, professional solar panel installer in Lincolnshire, then Lincs Renewables have got you covered.
From solar power installation in York down to solar installations in Woodhall Spa, we provide installations across Lincolnshire and Yorkshire, helping customers reduce their carbon footprint while reaping the financial benefits. For more information, visit our frequently asked questions or contact us today for a specialised quote.
[1] The Eco Experts, Here’s Everything You’d Ever Need to Know About Solar Panels, March 24, https://www.theecoexperts.co.uk/solar-panels/solar-statistics
