Solar PV FAQs

What are the benefits of installing solar electricity?

• Ability to generate your own ‘green electricity’ thus reducing environment pollution
• Reduces your utility bills
• In the majority of domestic properties, no planning permission is required.
• The Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs) scheme provides financial support to potential customers in the UK with the exception of Northern Ireland.
• Because the system is modular, you can start with one module and increase as our demand grows.
• Excess electricity can be sold back to your electricity supplier if you have a grid connected system.

Does the system require regular maintenance?
Generally, solar electricity systems do not require much maintenance so operating costs tend to be quite low. However, as with any system it would be advisable to get checks periodically by a suitably qualified electrician to ensure the system is operating to full capacity. In addition, these systems require very few spare parts and no fuel.

Do you offer a guarantee?
There is a manufacturer’s guarantee for the product and Sol-vent Energy Ltd offer a 5 year guarantee for parts and labour.

What is the lifetime of the system?
These systems have a very long lifespan – anything from 20 to 30 years.

How long will it take to install the system?
For an average 3 bedroomed house, it will take approximately 2 days to complete. This will require work internally and externally.

How will I know if my property is suitable for a Solar electricity system?
As most PV panels are fitted on the roof of your property, the roof needs to be very strong to take the weight. You will also need approximately 3m to 4 m space to fit the panels. A property survey will be carried out to ensure it is possible. To get the best results, the panels needs to be fitted on the south, south east, or south west facing roof and also requires to be free of any shade from trees or other buildings for long periods of the day.

Is planning permission required?
We have our own in-house planning service and will be able to advise you on any issues. Currently PV Solar panels do not require planning permission in Scotland and the rest of the UK. However, you are likely to need planning permission if you live in a conservation area, a listed building or you are thinking of installing solar systems on an industrial site or commercial property. If you are in any doubt at all, it is always best to check with your local authority.