Frequently Asked Questions
What is SEG and is the current £0.15/kWh SEG rate guaranteed, or can it decrease?
The SEG rate is variable, not guaranteed. “It is based upon a variable tariff that could change, as the market for exporting electricity costs is not fixed, so can be changed by suppliers if deemed needed.”
Can I charge my solar batteries from the grid during off-peak times?
Yes, especially if you have an EV… you should be taking advantage of an overnight cheap rate tariff… Intelligent Octopus Go 11:30–5:30am @ 8p/kWh.
What is the track record of Solar panels in UK conditions?
AIKO ABC panels, for example, have been installed in the UK since 2022/23, with strong lab performance and real-world degradation of ~0.35% per year: “Panels are guaranteed to retain roughly (88%) to (90.6%) of their original output after 30 years.”
What monitoring system is included? Can I track generation and consumption in real time?
Yes, all installations include a monitoring app,enabling real-time tracking. “All installations come with an app such as the Sigenergy Monitoring app.”
Are scaffolding costs included?
Yes, scaffolding is included in every estimate.
Is bird mesh included?
Yes, bird protection mesh is included FOC.
Can installers offer an extended workmanship warranty (e.g., 10 years)?
Standard workmanship warranty is 6 years under MCS guidelines, but longer periods can be provided on request. “Generally, installers offer 6 years… Longer periods can be provided upon request.”
The SEG rate is variable, not guaranteed. “It is based upon a variable tariff that could change, as the market for exporting electricity costs is not fixed, so can be changed by suppliers if deemed needed.”
What happens if the installer ceases trading? Is my warranty still valid?
What is SEG and is the current £0.15/kWh SEG rate guaranteed, or can it decrease?
The SEG rate is variable, not guaranteed. “It is based upon a variable tariff that could change, as the market for exporting electricity costs is not fixed, so can be changed by suppliers if deemed needed.”
Am I covered if the Installer goes bust?
Yes, all installations include an Insurance Backed Guarantee (IBG). “All work falls under MCS regulations which means we must provide an IBG… consumers can have confidence that they are trustworthy, reliable…”
The SEG rate is variable, not guaranteed. “It is based upon a variable tariff that could change, as the market for exporting electricity costs is not fixed, so can be changed by suppliers if deemed needed.”
Am I covered if the Installer goes bust?
Yes, all installations include an Insurance Backed Guarantee (IBG). “All work falls under MCS regulations which means we must provide an IBG… consumers can have confidence that they are trustworthy, reliable…”
How are warranty claims handled?
Claims are processed through the monitoring apps. “They will check the issues… issue a product replacement… arrange a convenient time… hassle free for the client.”
How long does a typical installation take?
Most domestic installations take 1–2 days, while commercial systems vary from 1–3 weeks depending on roof size, access, and electrical integration.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
Most domestic installations fall under Permitted Development.
Commercial buildings may require permission if:
• Panels alter the building height
• They are visible from public highways
• The building is listed or in a conservation area
What maintenance do solar panels require?
Solar PV systems are low-maintenance:
• Panels may need cleaning once per year
• Inverters typically last 10–12 years
• Monitoring apps alert you to any faults automatically
Will solar panels work on cloudy or rainy days?
Yes, panels still generate power in diffuse light. ABC technology (like AIKO) performs particularly well in low-light conditions.
What size battery do I need?
Typical domestic systems use 5–10 kWh batteries. Commercial systems often require 20–100+ kWh, depending on load profile and peak shaving strategy.
How much roof space do I need?
A standard 4 kW domestic system requires ~20–25 m². Commercial systems vary widely depending on output requirements.
Can solar panels increase my property value?
Yes, properties with solar often sell faster and at a premium due to lower running costs and improved EPC ratings.
What happens during a power cut?
Standard solar systems shut down automatically for safety. Systems with battery + backup circuits can provide emergency power to selected loads.
Can I expand my system later?
Yes, most systems are modular. Panels, batteries, and EV chargers can be added as your needs grow.
How long do solar panels last?
Modern panels last 30–40 years, with warranties typically covering 25–30 years.
What is the payback period?
Domestic: 5–9 years Commercial: 3–7 years This depends on consumption, tariff, battery size, and export rate.
Do I need direct sunlight to make solar installation worthwhile?
UK Suitability: Because ABC technology moves all electrical contacts to the rear, it eliminates busbar shading. This boosts low-light performance, a critical advantage for the diffuse light and overcast conditions typical of UK weather.
What monitoring system is included? Can I track generation and consumption in real time?
Yes, all installations include a monitoring app,enabling real-time tracking. “All installations come with an app such as the Sigenergy Monitoring app.”
Is solar funding just like taking a loan?
Yes, and in it’s simplest form. By financing you panels you own them outright from day one. Instead of paying £x to your energy provider you pay the finance agreement instead. This creates a fixed monthly cost instead of annual inflation to your energy provider as well as no further payments once the loan is fully repaid. Simple and saving you money.
Why don’t I just pay cash?
You can. Funding is there to top up any shortfall between available cash and the total system cost.