Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The electricity powers your home or business, and any excess can be stored in batteries or sent back to the grid, earning you credits or payments through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).

Residential solar can save you up to 70% on energy bills, while commercial installations can save even more. Solar helps protect against rising energy prices, and with battery storage, you can further reduce costs by storing energy for peak times and earn money by selling excess back to the grid.

Battery storage stores excess solar energy for use when the sun isn’t shining, such as at night or on cloudy days. It allows you to use your solar power when you need it most, reducing reliance on the grid and saving money.

In most cases, you don’t need planning permission for solar panels, as long as the installation meets certain conditions. Check with your local council if you're in a conservation area or have a listed building.

Solar panels typically last 25-30 years. While efficiency may decrease slightly over time, they’ll continue generating energy for decades.

Yes, solar panels work even on cloudy days, though they generate more power with direct sunlight. UK weather is suitable for solar, and technological advances are making solar systems more efficient and affordable.

Residential installations typically start from £3,500 and can go up to £20,000 or more, depending on system size and whether you include battery storage. Commercial systems vary, so contact us for a tailored quote.

Yes, both solar panels and battery storage are eligible for 0% VAT for residential properties. Homeowners can also earn through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Businesses may benefit from tax breaks and government or council grants.

Solar panels are self-cleaning, but it’s a good idea to clean them once a year (or more often in dusty areas). Regular inspections and system monitoring help ensure everything is running smoothly. We offer maintenance plans for peace of mind.

Your roof should have enough space, be in good condition, and face south, southeast, or southwest. But leave it to our engineers to assess. Simply fill out our enquiry form, and we’ll get in touch to provide a tailored recommendation.

Yes, solar panels generate power even on cloudy days, though at lower output. Excess energy is stored for use later, ensuring a steady power supply even when the sun isn’t shining.

If your solar panels don’t meet all your energy needs, you’ll draw from the grid. With battery storage, you can use stored energy at night or take advantage of cheaper off-peak rates, like Octopus Energy’s overnight tariffs, to save more.

Yes, you can sell excess energy through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and earn money. Payment rates vary by supplier, but Octopus Energy’s Flux tariff offers competitive rates for exported energy.

A typical residential solar panel installation takes 1-5 days. For commercial installations, the timeline depends on system size and complexity. Contact us for a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.