Answers

Frequently asked questions

Straight answers on surveys, funding, installation and what happens after your system is switched on.

Solar PV

What does a solar PV system do?: Solar photovoltaic panels generate electricity from daylight. The electricity can be used in the property as it is generated, stored in a compatible battery, or exported to the grid where an export arrangement is in place.
Does solar only work in direct sunshine?: No. Solar panels generate from daylight, although output is higher in stronger sunlight. Annual generation depends on orientation, pitch, shading, local weather, system size and equipment performance.
Will solar power my whole property all year?: Not necessarily. Solar generation changes by season and time of day. The design should be based on annual electricity use, daytime demand, roof space and the customer's objectives rather than assuming complete energy independence.
Do I need a south-facing roof?: No. East-, west- and mixed-orientation roofs can be suitable. The design should compare usable roof area, shading and the customer's consumption pattern.
Will solar work during a power cut?: A normal grid-connected solar system shuts down during a grid outage for safety. Backup operation requires compatible equipment and a specifically designed backup arrangement.

Battery Storage

Why add a battery?: A battery can store surplus solar generation or charge from the grid at selected times, then supply stored energy later. The financial value depends on tariffs, usage, system controls and battery sizing.
How big should my battery be?: Battery sizing should consider daily consumption, surplus solar, evening demand, tariff strategy, backup expectations and future loads such as EV charging or heat pumps. Bigger is not automatically better.
Will a battery run my whole home in a blackout?: Only if the selected system includes appropriate backup equipment and the electrical design supports the required circuits or whole-property load. Backup capability varies significantly by product.

Heat Pumps

How does an air-source heat pump work?: An air-source heat pump extracts heat from outside air and transfers it into the property's heating and hot-water system using a refrigeration cycle. It uses electricity but can deliver more heat energy than the electrical energy it consumes.
Do I need new radiators?: Possibly. A room-by-room heat-loss and emitter assessment determines whether existing radiators are sufficient at the proposed flow temperature or need enlargement or replacement.
Will a heat pump reduce my bills?: It may, but running costs depend on heat loss, system efficiency, flow temperature, electricity tariff, previous fuel, controls and user behaviour. Savings should not be guaranteed before full assessment.

EV Charging

Can I charge an EV from solar?: Yes, with a compatible charger and monitoring arrangement. Some chargers can prioritise solar surplus, but available charge rate depends on surplus generation and site conditions.
Can I install an EV charger with a battery?: Yes. Smart control can coordinate solar, battery and EV charging.

Installation

Installation work is delivered by our network of MCS-certified installation partners. Solar Renewables & Importations Ltd does not itself hold MCS certification.

Funding

Grant and funding figures are indicative only. Eligibility, award levels and scheme availability change and must be verified with the scheme administrator before you rely on them.

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