‘Solar Panels’ can refer to two technologies; solar photovoltaic panels for solar electricity, and solar thermal panels for making hot water. The purpose of this website is to size and quote for domestic and commercial PV systems. Our Quote engine uses panels, inverters and monitoring systems from the worlds’ leading manufacturers, based on competitive prices provided by installation companies.
Our Partners and Installation teams across the UK keep in stock the products, meaning that there are little waiting times involved. All of the recommended Installers are MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) approved, meaning that all of our customers can have peace of mind that their installation will be to strict safety standards.
Our Solar Quote Calculator will provide you with an instant online estimate with feedback on the amount you will earn from the Feed-In Tariff, your return on investment and your payback period tailored to your system. From here, a solar installer will contact you to provide you with a final, more refined quotation.
Our partner installation companies can install a variety of panels based on the requirements. They stock solar panels from Sharp, Sanyo, Solar Century, Sunpower and other leading manufacturers. Photovoltaic systems can come as standard panels, or as ‘solar tiles’, fitting into roofs much like normal slate tiles. Panels are rated by kWp (Kilowatt Peak), which is their output at peak performance. For example, the Sharp 185W can produce 185 watts under peak conditions. A system is also rated at its kWp, which is the number of panels multiplied by the wattage peak of each panel. A standard domestic system could comprise of 12 panels, and reach around 2.2 kWp in full sunshine.
Because the panels output Direct Current (DC), an inverter must be used to convert the power to Alternating Current (AC) to use in the home and to export to the grid. All systems are wired into the mains electricity to ensure that the switch between daylight solar generated power and night time grid power is seamless.
Generally, Panels are fitted onto a metal frame which sits off of the roof, supported by mounting brackets. A south facing roof with a pitch of 30 degrees will yield the best results, however a specialist installer will be able to answer any of your questions regarding your quote. Shading is also a factor to consider, as panels will not perform to their potential if they are even partially shaded.