If you are thinking about a solar panel installation, there are a few things you need to consider in the first instance. Planning Permission is no longer required for a solar panel installation on your home in England (unless the building is listed or in a conservation area), but there are things you should think about before you go ahead. These are all areas which a reputable solar panel company should discuss with you, but you can think about them before you get to the point of receiving quotations.
Firstly, which kind of solar panel installation are you considering? Solar Photovoltaic will provide you with electricity whilst Solar Thermal will supply you with hot water, in both cases probably about half of your annual requirements. One consideration will undoubtedly be cost, with solar photovoltaic power starting at about £8000 and solar thermal at only £3000. In addition, the amount of roof space available for the solar panel installation could be critical. A solar panel installation for the production of electricity will require approximately 10m² to 15m² of roof space, whilst an installation of solar thermal panels only needs about 2m² to 4m². In both cases the roof should ideally be facing southwest to southeast for maximum efficiency and there should be no overshadowing from obstructions such as trees.
Both types of solar panel installation require very little maintenance, and it is possible to install solar thermal panels yourself if you have some plumbing experience. If you do wish to undertake any of the work for a solar panel installation yourself, however, do make sure that detailed instructions are provided and check that you will not be invalidating any warranties by fitting yourself.
Source: www.est.org.uk 2009
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