FAQs
Roof & Property Considerations
We only work on your side of the roof, but we do check for any shading from your neighbour’s side and ensure your system will get its full potential.
We’ll confirm exact numbers and layout during the survey.
South west-facing roof is excellent for solar generation.
This is not usually a problem. During the design stage, we check for any shading or obstruction caused by chimneys—whether yours or your neighbour’s—to make sure your system performs at its best. If shading is identified, we can adjust the panel layout or use optimisation technology.
Solar & Battery Planning Permission
In most cases, no. Solar panels are considered Permitted Development in the UK, which means you typically don’t need planning permission for standard rooftop installations.
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You may need permission if:
- Your property is a listed building.
- Your home is in a conservation area, National Park, or Area of Outstanding Natural
- Beauty (AONB).
- The panels protrude more than 200mm from the roof.
- You’re installing a ground-mounted system or a large array.
Battery storage usually doesn’t require planning permission if it’s installed inside or as part of your home. For outdoor or detached battery units, planning may be needed depending on the size and location.
You’ll need permission from the freeholder, landlord, or management company before installing solar panels.
Your local planning authority (LPA) is the best place to confirm any specific rules for your area.
Installation Process
Bird protection or mesh prevents birds nesting under panels. It’s optional, but highly recommended and more cost-effective to fit during installation.
Ideally in a cool, ventilated spot like a garage, utility room, or weatherproof cabinet outside.
We’ll need access to the loft, fuse board/consumer unit, and wherever the inverter and battery will be located.
Scaffolding is usually put up 1–2 days before installation and taken down around three days after.
Equipment & Warranties
All equipment comes with manufacturer warranties – we’ll provide full details depending on your chosen system.
Batteries are almost silent (faint hum when charging/discharging). Panels are silent. Inverters may make a light hum.
It can be installed outdoors in a secure, weatherproof cabinet.
Once full, surplus energy is automatically exported back to the grid.
Some battery systems can provide backup power, depending on the model and additional features.
Grid, Export & Energy Supplier Tariffs
Apply to your energy supplier for a Smart Export Guarantee tariff after commissioning. You’ll receive all paperwork (MCS certificate, G98/G99 approval) in your handover pack.
After installation, once you’ve received your MCS certificate and G98/G99 approval..
Heating, Hot Water & Smart Controls
No, solar works independently of heating/hot water.
Solar works independently, so Hive or similar systems are unaffected.
Mention this now so we can design your system with that in mind.
Monitoring & Apps
It’s a virtual app (phone/tablet) showing generation, battery use, export, and consumption in real time.
Aftercare, Maintenance & Insurance
Your system may need periodic health checks. You can also monitor via the app.
Rare, but if a fault occurs (e.g. inverter failure), contact the manufacturer or us. Details provided in your handover pack.
Yes, but we recommend informing your provider once installed.
Solar typically increases property value and improves EPC ratings.
Troubleshooting
Yes, most batteries make a faint hum when charging or discharging. If the sound is loud, irregular, or new please contact us for support.
Yes, If your system has backup functionality, this will have been discussed during installation. Not all systems provide backup during outages. If you’re unsure, check your handover pack or contact us for support.
Solar output varies daily and seasonally depending on sunlight, shading, weather conditions and roof orientation. Compare your production against previous days with similar weather. If it remains unusually low, we can check remotely or arrange a system check up.
Check that the charger has power (indicator lights should be on). Reset the unit by turning it off and on at the isolator. Also check your car settings, as some EVs require scheduled charging to be enabled. If the problem continues, please contact us with the charger model and error code.
This could be a protective safety cut-off. Please do not attempt to repair it yourself. Note the time, take a photo of the fuse board and charger. Please contact our service team for advice.
If your internet changes, your system may disconnect. Reconnect it by following your inverter/battery/charger’s Wi-Fi setup guide. If you’re unsure, we can provide instructions and remote support — please note site call-outs for Wi-Fi reconnections may incur a service fee.
Can’t quite find what you’re looking for?
Contact our customer services team on 029 2252 0139 or customersupport@greenenergysolar.co.uk
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