1. Planning Permission
General Rule: Solar panels, especially those installed on roofs, are typically considered “permitted development” in the UK. This means they don’t usually require planning permission.
Exceptions:
- Conservation Areas & Listed Buildings: If your property is located in a designated conservation area or is a listed building, you might need to obtain permission, especially if the panels will affect the property’s appearance or character.
- Front-facing Installations: Panels installed on a wall facing a road might require permission due to aesthetic concerns.
- Protrusion & Height: Panels shouldn’t protrude more than 200mm from the wall or roof’s surface. Additionally, the top of the installation shouldn’t be higher than the highest part of the roof, excluding chimneys.
2. Building Regulations
Structural Safety:
- Before installing solar panels, a structural assessment of the property is crucial. This ensures the roof can support the additional weight of the panels and the mounting equipment.
Electrical Safety:
- All electrical works related to solar panel installations must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations. This ensures that the electrical components, including wiring and inverters, are safe and won’t pose a fire risk or other hazards.
3. Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS)
Certification:
- MCS is a mark of quality. Installers and products that carry this certification have met rigorous standards, ensuring that your solar panel system is efficient, safe, and reliable.
Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs):
- The FiT scheme was a government incentive that rewarded homeowners for generating renewable energy. To qualify, both the solar panels and the installer had to be MCS-certified. Note: The FiT scheme closed to new applicants in April 2019, but those already registered can still benefit.
4. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- An EPC provides information about a property’s energy use and typical energy costs. It also offers recommendations on how to reduce energy and save money.
- To benefit from certain government incentives, your property must have an EPC rating of band D or higher. This ensures that homes using solar panels are also energy efficient in other ways.
5. Grid Connection
- Before you can connect your solar system to the national grid, you need permission from your local District Network Operator (DNO). This is to ensure that the grid can handle the additional input from your solar panels.
- Your installer will typically handle this process, filling out the necessary paperwork and ensuring that the system meets the DNO’s requirements.
6. Environmental Considerations
- Some areas in the UK are designated as environmentally sensitive. Installing solar panels in such areas might require additional assessments or permissions to ensure that the local ecosystem isn’t adversely affected.
7. Insurance
- Informing your home insurance provider about your solar installation is crucial. Some providers might adjust premiums based on the perceived risks or benefits of having solar panels. It’s also essential to ensure that any damage to or caused by the panels is covered.
8. Maintenance and Decommissioning
Maintenance:
- Solar panels are relatively low-maintenance. However, periodic cleaning (to remove dust, bird droppings, etc.) and checks (for any electrical or structural issues) are recommended to keep them operating efficiently.
Decommissioning:
- If you decide to remove your solar panels, especially if you have received public funds or grants for their installation, you might need to notify certain agencies or local authorities. Proper disposal of the panels and associated equipment is also essential to minimize environmental impact.
Conclusion
While the process might seem intricate, understanding the regulations and guidelines surrounding solar panel installations in the UK ensures a smooth and compliant transition to renewable energy. Always consult with professionals and local authorities to stay updated on any changes in regulations.
Expert, local installers
All installations are carried out by careful, caring, qualified MCS-accredited engineers.
It’s as easy as...
Answer a few questions about your home or business
Receive up to 3 quotes from our trusted installers in your area
They install your new system in as little as 2 weeks
What our customers say
”I was thinking about getting solar for my home and stumbled upon www.solarplanet.uk. The site's super easy to get, breaking down all the solar jargon. After reading up for a bit, I filled out their quote form. The next day, I got calls and emails from three solar companies in South Wales. Chatted with all of them, got quotes, and went ahead with one. The whole experience was smooth, and all the companies seemed top-notch. Big thumbs up!
Caroline McleanCardiff Resident
”Running a business, those rising energy bills were starting to pinch. So, we thought, 'Why not try solar?' A quick online search led us to Solar Planet. Filling out their quote form was a breeze, and guess what! The very next day, three solar experts from Bristol gave us a shout. They were all super helpful and knew their stuff. Picking one was tough since they all had great offers. And a big relief! They all had this MCS accreditation – a real peace of mind with all those dodgy stories you hear these days.
Daniel JonesOn The Blink - Commercial Business in Bristol
”It couldn't have been easier! Initially, we were scratching our heads trying to find a trustworthy company. Then, thanks to a quick Google search by my husband, we landed on Solar Planet. He filled out their quote form, and the next day, three different solar installers rang us up. We've been over the moon with both the installation and the ongoing support. They guided us through the whole process from installation to helping us find the best energy provider for solar power.
Ceri BurkeSwansea Resident
