Silverstone Green Energy

Why should I have solar panels?

Solar panels help you generate free electricity for the sun and therefore reduce your electricity grid usage and intern reduce your bills. They can also be, depending on your installation, be a source of income too. This is done by selling electricity to the grid through an Export agreement.

Do I need planning permission?

Planning permission for solar panels, in most cases is not required as they fall under permitted development. There are a few conditions such as listed buildings, where permission would need to be sort.

How many solar panels will I need?

Whilst an initial upfront expense, a typical solar system usually pays back in 7-8 years. This depends on the materials installed and the size, angle, orientation and shading of your solar panels. If the price of electricity continues to rise this time will be reduced.

Do they have to face south?

Many years ago, when the cost of installation was a lot higher, it was only really beneficial to install solar panels on nearly south-facing roofs. Over the last 10 – 15 years the cost of Solar panel installation has significantly dropped and the prices for electricity have significantly increased. A south-facing roof will produce more than a north-facing roof but not a significant difference. It is well worthwhile covering east, west, and north roofs if the system meets your needs. We are installing large commercial systems on both North and South roofs because the saving on the price of elec

How will they fix to my roof?

Depending on the roof that you have on your house, outbuilding or commercial property, we will use the most suitable fixings as well as calculating roof wind load calculations, ensuring that your system is fitted to the highest possible standard. All our work is covered by a 5-year workmanship guarantee. This hook is used for a slate roof This hook is used for a tiled roof This hook and fixing is used on single-skinned metal roofs with wood/metal purlins

Should I wash my Solar Panels?

Solar panels can be washed with warm water and soap. This will ensure that they are in optimal condition to generate the most electricity. Dust and dirt does build up on the panels and is normally removed in a rain shower, but if the panels are exposed to prolonged times of dirt, ie, next to a new road build, then it is advisable to give the panels a wash. There are many companies that offer panel washing and, on the whole, can be done from the floor with extendible poles.

Will Solar Panels heat my hot water?

Solar PV panels will not heat your water. With the addition of an energy diverter, if you have a hot water tank, your Solar PV will be able to heat your hot water. The energy diverter sends any excess energy that is not being used by the property to the hot water tank and the immersion heater. Some customers have found this to be a very effective method of heating their water and have even taken the measure to install an extra hot water tank to ensure that they always have free hot water.

Will I get money from the government?

FIT (Feed in Tariffs) no longer exist, so you will not receive any payment for generating your own electricity. You can sell your excess electricity back to the national grid if you register for an Export tariff.