Choosing A Solar Panel Installer: What To Expect
Here at Green Flare, we’re passionate about providing homes and businesses in Bristol with seamlessly integrated, high-end solar technology. With decades of experience under our belts and an incredible team, placing solar energy at customers’ fingertips is what we do best, empowering homes and businesses to take their first steps towards a greener, more economic future.
Our people, comprising highly qualified designers and engineers, bring unparalleled expertise to every project, ensuring that your transition to solar energy is seamless and efficient. Regardless of roof type, we’re here to design, install and maintain bespoke systems, perfectly tailored to your property.
Reach out to a member of our team today; we’re always happy to talk.
Types of Solar Panels
With access to industry leading solar technology, such as ESDEC, Schletter and GSE mounting systems, our skilled engineers are able to fit efficient solar panels on every type of roof. Pitched, flat, gabled, hipped; we pride ourselves on designing innovative solutions for any property.
In-Roof Solar Panels - Also known as ‘roof-integrated’, in-roof solar panels are installed directly into the roof, replacing a portion of the roofing material. They sit flush with the roofline, offering a sleek, aesthetic appearance. This design is ideal for those looking to minimise the visual impact of the panels or comply with building regulations in sensitive areas.
On-Roof Solar Panels - These are the most common type of solar installations, in which panels are mounted on top of the existing roof structure, raised slightly above the roofing material. This is typically a more cost-effective option and allows for better airflow around the panels, which can help with cooling and efficiency.
Flat Roof Solar Panels - Designed specifically for flat or low-pitch roofs, these panels are installed on frames, angled optimally towards the sun. The installation does not penetrate the roof membrane extensively, making it a good option for commercial buildings or homes with flat roofs. This setup can also accommodate larger systems due to the usually ample space available on flat roofs.
How Solar Panels Work
There are two types of solar panel: solar thermal and solar photovoltaic (Solar PV).
Simply put, solar thermal technology is designed to store energy from the sun to heat homes or swimming pools. The process itself is reasonably straightforward; solar collectors absorb sunlight and use it to heat a transfer fluid of some sort. This transfer fluid is then transferred to your home’s water tank, releasing its heat before returning to your solar collectors for heating.
Solar PV panels work by capturing sunlight and converting it into electricity, a process that allows us to harness the vast energy of the sun for everyday use.
Each solar panel is composed of many smaller units called solar cells, usually made from silicon. These cells are capable of absorbing photons from the sun. When these photons are absorbed by the solar cells, they transfer their energy to electrons within the silicon. This energy push causes the electrons to move, creating a flow of electrical current.
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels work all year round; be it a cold winter’s morning or hot summer’s day, you’ll reap the rewards of clean, affordable solar power.
Solar Panel Installation Bristol
Quote
During this stage, our team use state-of-the-art design and proposal software to indicate performance and provide a bespoke quote, specific to your property and energy provider.
Installation
With designs finalised, our teams will fit and install your solar PV. This usually takes 2-3 days.
Site Survey & Design
Following an initial quote, we will conduct a site survey in order to finalise design and provide an accurate cost.
On-site handover
Once installation is complete, the handover of key documents takes place. This includes DNO notification, user manuals and warranty information.
Benefits of Solar Panels
As energy prices soar and our understanding of climate change deepens, the need for alternative energy sources is clearer than ever. Modern solar technology exists as an economic and environmentally sound alternative to traditional systems, and is accompanied by a number of benefits:
Eco-Friendly and Efficient
Reduce your carbon footprint by producing free, renewable energy from sunlight for your home or business.
Lower Energy Bills
Benefit from clean energy, free of charge. The energy you produce is yours to use, lowering bills and generating significant long term savings.
Future Proof Technology
Investing in solar technology reduces reliance on the national grid, improving self-sufficiency and protecting you from energy price fluctuations.
Get Paid for Excess Electricity
Excess electricity can be kept in battery storage or sold back to the grid. This is a great way to subsidise other utility costs and get paid for the energy you generate.
Easy to Maintain
Expertly engineered and installed, our solar panels are incredibly low maintenance and carry a 25 year warranty.
Approved Solar Panel Installations
What is the Average Cost of Solar Panel Installation
Investing in solar energy has never been more accessible or affordable.
Here at Green Flare, we pride ourselves on designing bespoke, high-end systems, with the average installation costing £4,000 to £9,000, depending on roof type.
For those looking to maximise their energy independence, adding battery storage to your system starts from £8,000 to £16,000.
Of course, no two projects are alike, and there are a multitude of factors that affect cost. For an accurate estimate, reach out to a member of our team; we’re always happy to chat.
Solar Panel FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Install Solar Panels?
Typically, the process takes between two and three weeks, from start to finish. This includes initial design, site survey, electrical installation and on-site handover. The installation of the panels themselves usually takes two to three days.
How Long Will My Solar Panels Last?
Thanks to high-quality material construction and expert installation, our solar panels will last for a minimum of 25-30 years, before any form of degradation or energy reduction is noticeable.
Do I Need a South-Facing Roof For Solar Panels?
While a south-facing roof is ideal for solar PV, it is by no means a deal breaker. The latest solar technology means that most homes can benefit from solar systems.
Do You Need Planning Permission For Solar Panels?
Unless you live in an area of outstanding natural beauty, or own a listed building, solar installation does not usually require planning permission. That said, it’s worth double checking with your local council if you have a flat roof or live in a conservation area.
What is the return on investment (ROI) for solar panels?
On average, it takes six to nine years for our domestic solar panels to pay themselves off, but this will vary depending on the specific nature of the installation.
Solar Panel Guides
Call: +44 (0) 1173 353635 Email: info@green-flare.com