Categories PV / EV

UK Domestic Solar Installation

KEY POINTS TO CONSIDER

Installing solar photovoltaics (PV) together with (EESS) battery storage can offer long-term savings, better self-sufficiency, and lower environmental impact. But it’s not just “buy panels, stick them on the roof and done.”

There are many technical, financial, regulatory, and practical factors to get right to make sure it’s a good investment.

PLUS, choosing the right people to advise, instal, deliver, and explain what to expect and what has been installed.

Here’s a quick summary of the 10 key points which we’ll expand upon, below:

  • What are your goals & usage pattern?
  • Roof/site suitability for solar modules (panels).
  • Size of the solar array + battery.
  • Types of battery & system configuration (EESS).
  • Safety, regulations and certifications.
  • Cost, savings & payback.
  • Positioning, installation & logistics.
  • Monitoring, usage behaviour & future-proofing.
  • Limitations and potential downsides.
  • Advice. Have you chosen the right installation partner?

Now, let’s develop some of the details:

1. What are your goals & usage pattern

Before anything else, clarify why you want solar + storage, and how you use electricity in your home. Knowing your annual electricity consumption (in kWh), how it’s distributed over time, and future projections will help design the system you will need to instal.

  • Do you want to cut electricity bills, especially in peak hours?
  • Do you want emergency backup power during grid outages?
  • Are you anticipating higher electricity demand (EV charging, heat pumps, etc.)?
  • When in the day (or year) do you use most of your electricity? If you use a lot during the daytime, more of your solar is used directly; if mostly in evenings, storage is essential to maintain supply day and night.

2. Roof/site suitability for solar modules (panels)

Some of the key physical and environmental conditions:

  • Orientation & tilt: South-facing roofs are ideal; east/west can work, north less so. Tilt angle matters to maximise solar exposure.
  • Shading: Chimneys, trees, neighbouring buildings shading during parts of day, reduce output. These are checked and modelled in planning.
  • Roof condition & structure: Is the roof sound? Is its lifetime shorter than that of the system to be installed? Will it need repair or reinforcement? Panels add weight, which is too often ignored during planning.
  • Space: Enough area for desired module (panel) capacity.
  • Planning constraints: If in a conservation area, listed building, or if the roof is visible from protected vistas, there may be restrictions. Often permitted development rights cover solar, but we will need to check with the local authority.

3. Size of the solar array + battery

Sizing has a big impact on cost, savings, and performance:

  • How big should the PV system be (peak output in kW)? This depends on roof size, budget, and usage.
  • How big an EESS battery storage (capacity in kWh)? We’re looking for the optimum storage to balance continued energy usage, day and night. If you are not using what you generate, the EESS enables sell-back to the National Grid. For many homes, batteries of 5-15 kWh are common.
  • Matching modules & battery: If you’re adding storage later, or expanding in the future, consider modular / scalable systems. Your expert installer will advise.

4. Types of battery & system configuration

Different technologies and designs come with trade-offs:

  • Battery chemistry: Lithium-ion is most common today (good energy density, lifespan, cost), but there are alternatives. Consider cycle life, warranty, degradation.
  • Most home systems in the UK range between 5kWh and 15kWh. You can choose between: AC-coupled systems, which are easier to add to existing solar panel systems. DC-coupled systems, which can be more efficient, but are usually installed alongside new solar concurrently.
  • Backup load / off-grid ability: If you want backup in blackouts, ensure the system supports a backup circuit or load switching.

5. Safety, regulations and certifications

  • Installers should be MCS-certified on systems <50kWp (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) so standards are met, and warranties/insurance are valid.
  • Fire safety: New UK standard PAS 63100:2024 sets guidance for installation locations (where batteries can / cannot be installed), mounting, enclosure, ventilation etc. Avoid bedrooms, tight cupboards, lofts (for new installs). Use fire-rated surfaces. This should be confirmed with the insurance provider and Fire Safety Officer. Again, all of this will be explained fully by your adviser / installer
  • Electrical safety & local network notifications: Notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO), get relevant electrical certification (EIC or similar). Ensure wiring is according to UK regulations (BS 7671 etc.).

6. Cost, savings & payback

Key financials to consider:

  • Upfront cost: Panels, batteries, inverters, installation, electrical work, possibly roof work. Battery cost can range (before installation) from a few thousand to over £10,000 depending on size & brand.
  • Ongoing costs: Maintenance, possible replacement (battery lifespan), inverter failures etc. Note: Fitting the right / best components in the first place saves considerable in the long run.
  • Incentives & tax:
    • VAT relief: solar panels + battery installations are zero-rated VAT (0%), (at present, domestically in most cases).
    • Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): You can be paid for surplus electricity you ‘export’ (sell) back to the grid. But rates are relatively low, so optimally you use more yourself.
    • Grants / schemes (can be regional): e.g. interest-free or low-interest loans (Scotland etc.), local authority schemes.
  • Payback period: Depends strongly on how much electricity you use when modules generate, how much you export vs store, electricity tariffs, battery costs & lifespan. Detailed modelling will help guide your decision making.

7. Positioning, installation & logistics

  • Where to locate the battery: utility room, garage, external enclosure are common. Ventilation, accessibility, safety (fire & proximity to other structures) matter. [Loft installations are now generally discouraged for new installs under safety standards.]
  • Inverter: capacity and compatibility with panels and battery. If upgrading or retrofitting, check that your existing inverter can support battery, or whether a hybrid or new inverter is needed.
  • Cabling, wiring, protection, surge protection etc.
  • Installer credibility: Ask for detailed quotes, breakdown of cost, warranties (battery, inverter, workmanship), and after-sales support. Check reviews, previous installations.

8. Monitoring, usage behaviour & future-proofing

  • Monitoring system: Many battery systems come with apps or online dashboards so you can see when generation, storage, usage, export etc are happening. This helps you to optimise usage and value.
  • Behaviour changes: Even with solar + battery, tweaks such as using appliances during daylight hours, shifting loads, choosing time-of-use tariffs can make a big difference.
  • Future demand: If you plan to add EV charging, heat pumps, or growing household usage, build in capacity (battery size, inverter rating, roof space) to accommodate growth.

9. Limitations and potential downsides

It’s not all positives; be realistic about drawbacks:

  • High upfront outlay. Payback can take many years, especially if usage patterns don’t align.
  • Less generation in winter, or low sunlight days. So, your EESS may not cover evenings fully in winter.
  • Batteries degrade over time; warranty conditions may limit useful lifespan. Replacement costs may come in before you move or before full payback.
  • Export tariffs (SEG) are relatively low, meaning you often get more benefit from storing and using your own power than relying on producing and exporting.

10. Advice

Unless you are an expert yourself, you will be reliant on the advice you’re given by your consultant / installer. Be sure you have chosen the right one.

  • Does the relationship feel right?
  • Are they a “yeh, no problem mate” or “let’s sit down and properly understand what you think you need, and why. There are many alternatives, let’s get it right for you, from the start.”?
  • Do they have the right qualifications and evidential history (see 5, above)?
  • Are they showing you a full, illustrated installation plan, illustrated, with all components detailed within an itemised quotation, and payback forecast, all fully detailed?
  • Are they explaining the downsides as well as the ups?
  • Are they suggesting a sensible, affordable maintenance plan?
FIND OUT MORE

Author Rodney Bashford
Categories PV / EV

Essential Commercial PV Maintenance

This is a serious warning for anyone who is about to, or has already installed rooftop PV systems without integrated access for maintenance.

Don’t do it.

There’s nothing cheap about PV (photovoltaic) with EESS (Electrical Energy Storage System) installation, we all know that. That’s why we make sure clients (not customers – we’ll explain the difference shortly) have and fully understand a full Financial Summary  (payback report) before committing to take responsibility for their own energy resources.

Does your renewable energy generation plan include the essentials?

  1. PV, photovoltaic, solar panels contain cells made of silicon that absorb sunlight, creating a direct current (DC) electricity flow. Planned with optimum coverage and direction to optimise input.
  2. The correct inverter is used to convert DC electricity into alternating current (AC) for use in homes and businesses, or for feeding back into the grid.
  3. Your system includes appropriate EESS (Electrical Energy Storage System), a solar battery system, to store excess energy generated by solar panels for later use, balancing peaks and troughs (as night follows day!).
  4. The system has an appropriate, managed (or self-managed) Smart Energy Management System (SEMS) providing real-time data and analytics to maximise self-consumption of solar energy, optimise battery usage, reduce energy costs, and integrate with other devices like heat pumps and EV chargers to create more efficient and sustainable energy systems
  5. Installation includes appropriate, safe access for inspection and maintenance.
  6. And, includes an inspection, testing, and maintenance contract with a reputable supplier.

Efficiency

As with anything / everything: payback is profit – income net of costs. Costs to ensure safe continuity of energy generation and storage must include maintenance.

Let’s take a moment to consider the client / customer definition. If you have bought or are about to install renewable energy solutions without maintenance solutions – you are a customer … sold.

If your system includes build-in platform access to all levels for ongoing maintenance – you are a client … serviced.

Even if you do not have a maintenance plan included, but do have inspection and maintenance access, your supplier has covered all parameters with your continued safe energy supply in mind.

As long as we can access the system safely, we can inspect and maintain it properly.

PV renewable maintenance involves:

  • scheduled inspections for damage and debris,
  • regular cleaning of the modules,
  • system performance checked and calibrated through a generation meter or online platforms,
  • electrical components like inverters and wiring to be checked,
  • and scheduling professional electrical tests.

… all crucial for long-term system health, safety, and energy output.

Foresight.

Avoid the costs of re-instating scaffolding each time maintenance is carried out by pre-installing safe access and anti-fall protection such as Mansafe.

A Mansafe system is a safety measure providing personal fall protection for engineers operating at height. It typically consists of horizontal or vertical stainless steel wire cables fixed to a structure, allowing a user to hook a harness to the cable, providing either fall arrest (to stop a fall in progress) or fall restraint (to prevent access to fall hazards).

As Day follows Night

PV generated energy output is as precise as day follows night, which as we all know is not such a precise science as we feel it ought to be.

To get the best results from your investment, you need to manage the system as you would any commercial asset …

Inspecting PV System Performance

  • For consistent success of your solar systems, ensure regular monitoring and maintenance.
  • Employ a registered and respected company to identify potential problems, before they become safety hazards.
  • Make sure the installation has sufficient monitoring precautions to measure amperage, temperature, and other key performance indicators.

Ongoing Scheduled Maintenance Plans

  • Having a JGF Renewables Maintenance Plan in place is essential for optimising the performance of your solar modules and system.
  • It should at least include annual inspections, electrical testing and module cleaning, power and output measuring, and regular software updates.

Does your renewable energy generation plan include the essentials

  1. PV, photovoltaic, solar panels contain cells made of silicon that absorb sunlight, creating a direct current (DC) electricity flow. Planned with optimum coverage and direction to optimise input.
  2. The correct inverter is used to convert DC electricity into alternating current (AC) for use in homes and businesses, or for feeding back into the grid.
  3. Your system includes appropriate EESS (Electrical Energy Storage System), a solar battery system, to store excess energy generated by solar panels for later use, balancing peaks and troughs (as night follows day!).
  4. The system has an appropriate, managed (or self-managed) Smart Energy Management System (SEMS) providing real-time data and analytics to maximise self-consumption of solar energy, optimise battery usage, reduce energy costs, and integrate with other devices like heat pumps and EV chargers to create more efficient and sustainable energy systems
  5. Installation includes appropriate, safe access for inspection and maintenance.
  6. And, includes an inspection, testing, and maintenance contract with a reputable supplier.

Author Rodney Bashford
Categories PV / EV

Apples & World Energy

Yesterday 21st October combined the natural Joy of ‘The Apple’ with the increasing surge in the quest for renewable energy.

It’s both National Apple Day, and World Energy Saving Day.

We play a hand in both.

We have spoken before about our friend and client, Paul Ward of Mole End Farms in Kent. He is an award-winning grower of apples and pears (the fruit that is, not the cockney access to the next floor!).

Paul is rigid in achieving the delivery of their fundamental aim as 100% organic growers:

“Our principal aim is to maintain a truly ethical and sustainable long-term business, producing a high-quality food product in a fully sustainable manner with the absolute minimum impact on the surrounding environment.”

That’s sustainable organics in the ground, on the trees, and throughout the picking, packing and distribution.

Where Team JGF get involved is installing and maintaining renewable energy to the farms in the group, PV, capturing the natural energy; Battery Storage, collecting and holding it; and EV, using part of it on the road.

Paul aims to run the entire operation using self-generated energy. But where does his ambitions sit compared to the National Grid:

43.1% of the UK energy mix was from renewables in the 12 months to September 2024. Wind 30.4%, biomass 6.6%, solar 4.7% and hydro 1.4%. 

Confusion!

In the Climate Change Act 2008 the UK is committed by law to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050.  To help meet this target the UK government has set a target to de-carbonise the electricity system by 2035 (though this (and many other things) might change with the new Government). 

In their March 2023 report, the Climate Change Committee (CCC) said that a de-carbonised power grid is achievable but not at the current pace of change.

For Renewables to play their part there’s the need for a big increase in capacity – particularly wind and solar, backed up by battery storage.

Great targets, great ambitions.

Explain then WHY:

The UK burns about half of its domestic rubbish – including increasing amounts of plastic – producing just 3.1 per cent of the country’s power needs. And in the past five years, while the number of coal-fired power stations dwindled to zero, the number of ‘energy from waste’ (EFW) incinerators has risen from 38 to 52.

How does this help reduce our carbon footprint Britain?

As usual, it’s down to us to fight our own global battle for energy saving.

Many of our clients, such as Paul, are well ahead of the game when it comes to power saving on the one hand, and generation on the other.

Others, we encourage to review their energy usage and make the (often small) changes that could save them many hundreds of pounds off their energy bills.

Review:

  • Review lighting levels
  • Replace old lighting with efficient LED lighting
  • Install movement sensors in lesser used corridor lighting
  • Get an ROI report for installing Solar PV and storage systems
  • Discipline SWITCH OFF policies
  • Switch to a policy of inspect and repair to keep the essential power ON efficiently.

The World Energy Savings Day (21st October) is intended to raise awareness about energy waste. If we use it efficiently, we wouldn’t need to generate so much – simple, right!

Although renewable sources continue to increase across the globe, energy consumption has a significant and undeniable impact on the planet since energy generation still relies heavily on non-renewable sources such as fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases and contribute to climate change.

Encouraging practices that reduce energy consumption is therefore crucial to mitigate those effects.

These are some of the core issues being spotlighted to promote energy savings:

Temperature control

According to the European Commission, the average temperature in European households is 22ºC. Lowering the thermostat by just one degree could reduce heating energy consumption by about 7%. Control it.

Turn that light out

Turning off lights and electrical devices when they’re not in use. Another way to contribute to energy efficiency is by using LEDs in place of conventional lamps or lightbulbs. In fact, this alternative can generate energy savings of up to 80 % over traditional lighting and is also environmentally friendly thanks to the materials used to produce it. A great policy for schools, colleges and other public buildings.

Repair before replacing

The right to repair makes it easier to fix products rather than replace them. In March 2023, the European Commission adopted new rules to make repairing a product a more accessible and cheaper option than buying a new one, both during and after the warranty period. This not only prolongs products’ lives, but also reduces waste.

Saving energy on the move

Most car journeys are for commuting to work even though, according to the European Commission, more than a third of jobs in Europe could be done from home. Offering the option of working remotely at least three days a week can reduce fuel consumption and save money. EV Charging – instal and maintain.

In summary

  • Generate it sustainably.
  • Use it sparingly.
  • Maintain it efficiently.
  • Call Team JGF for an energy review.

Author Rodney Bashford
Categories PV / EV

New Build Solar PV – Mandatory Yes / No ?

As proactive members of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), we thought we would update you on the carbon reducing switch to sustainables affecting us (the UK) today.

Individual Conversions

Individually, homes are rapidly converting their energy thinking to move from the Grid to self-generated sustainable electricity sources. According to the Independent’s Solar Panels UK 2024 Complete Guide, “The average home can save £1,190 every year with solar panels”. But this is just one reason to convert.

Research conducted by the MCS, reveals that the installation of solar panels and heat pumps in UK homes soared in 2023, driving the country to its highest-ever level of domestic low-carbon technology upgrades. 

Registered solar photovoltaic (PV) installations rose nearly 30% to a post-subsidy record of 189,826 in 2023. And, heat-pump installations were up 20%, reaching a record 36,799 also.

This growth drove a UK record for the total number of domestic renewable electricity and low-carbon heat technologies installations registered by MCS, which reached 229,618.

Community Initiatives

Community sustainability and low carbon impact is being encouraged too.

Alethea Warrington, senior campaigner at climate charity Possible, said: “Powering clean heat with clean, cheap, local energy is the ultimate win-win: lower bills, lower emissions and warm homes.”

Regen furnished the Government with a report intending to show the benefits of community action and seeking support to ease the way for such schemes to flourish.

Community energy organisations are communities taking collective action to address climate change and fuel poverty by delivering community-led renewable energy, energy demand reduction, and energy supply projects.

Dr. Rebecca Windemer, planning and communities lead at Regen and one of the report’s co-authors, said: “We know that we need to go much further and faster on clean heat to hit our net zero targets, and our report gives the Government the keys to a real solution.

“By innovating with wind, solar and clean heat technology, we can slash bills while cutting carbon. We desperately need policy change to enable communities to directly benefit from these projects.”

Community schemes vary enormously. At the start of 2022 ModPods International set out to design a Low Carbon Home, and a home capable of producing Zero Energy Bills. Intended for individual modular design and domestic lifestyles to reflect carbon neutral aspirations.

Steve Smith, of ModPods said “We are now being asked to develop community schemes with Warder facilities to suit the vast demand for Social Housing. Kent and the South East have been earmarked for future trials and development.”

Made to measure, supplied a pods by low loader, erected, wired and infastructured. One for JGF? – watch this space.

National Activity

National Developments:

A briefing by MCS in February and report by Gareth Simkins, Senior Communications Adviser, Solar Energy UK with statistics from a YouGov poll, was a revelation for ‘Project Carbon Neutral’.

MPs overwhelmingly back mandatory solar panels for newbuild homes

The Government is consulting on proposals for regulations for newbuild homes that will come into force in 2025, with two options – one to mandate solar panels for all new homes, and one to not mandate them.

According to the YouGov poll, 79% of all MPs, and 83% of Labour MPs, agree that solar panels should be incorporated into all new-builds from 2025.

Three in five (61%) MPs believe that battery storage, which can maximise the gains from solar panels, should be mandatory in new homes as well. That figure rises to 77% for Labour MPs.

Joe Forsyth, JGF’s MD, said: “PV alone is not the solution. To be truly ‘sustainable’ any system must create and manage a ‘power reservoir’, holding surplus power in batteries to balance out the peaks and troughs of production and use.

Peaks are stored and, if not needed domestically / locally, can be sold back into the National Grid. One of the peaks that is currently concerning the market is efficient sourcing of energy to charge EVs. Harnessing domestic energy generation is the only real step towards making this possible.”

David Cowdrey, Director of External Affairs at the MCS Foundation, said, “When it comes to constructing modern homes that are climate-friendly and cheap to run, building-in solar panels, batteries for energy storage, and heat pumps from the start is very clearly the way to go.”

This is exciting news, not just for the country but for JGF. JGF have invested time, training and other resources, gaining accreditation from MCS, and embarking on technical up-skilling to make sure it will play an important role in the Solar PV and EV Solutions market over the next 5 years and beyond.

For further thoughts, see our recent article: Energy Doesn’t Grow on Trees – HERE.

Author Rodney Bashford
Categories PV / EV

Energy Doesn’t Grow on Trees

Tracking Clean Energy Process (TCEP) – How are we doing?

As ULEZ signs topple across London in Sadiq Khan’s one-man last-ditch attempt to save the planet and London residents’ horror at having to do it for him, in a more structured world, the IEA have published their TCEP 2023 report.

Mole End Farms in Cranbrook may be a grain of sand in the desert of renewables but, as you’ll read later (below), by working #together, we may hold back the melting ice flows and stop the growing acres of barren land.

“Our principal aim is to build a truly ethical and sustainable long-term business...”

Read what else owner Paul Ward has to say about environmental sustainability, below.

The BIG picture first

The IEA is an international body working with governments around the world offering advice on matters ‘energy’ with the broadest goal of reducing CO2 emissions.

The TCEP report specifically covers:

  • Electric Vehicles
  • Nuclear
  • Heat Pumps
  • Electrolyser
  • Energy Efficiency

How are we doing?

(In their words): Of the over 50 components tracked, in the 2023 edition 3 are evaluated as fully “On track” with the Net Zero by 2050 Scenario trajectory – solar PV, electric vehicles and lighting. Solar PV was upgraded in this edition, as the annual growth in generation in 2022 of 26% is now aligned with the average compound annual growth rate needed from now to 2030 in the Net Zero Scenario. 

Massive UK Growth.

In the first 6 months of 2022, the UK Solar PV market saw the UK posting 80% growth in new solar PV installations compared to the same period the previous with the country’s solar capacity now exceeding 15GW.

And, the UK has ambitious solar power targets to reach 40GW installed capacity by 2030.

Exciting News.

This is exciting news, not just for the country but for JGF. JGF have invested time and other resources, gaining accreditation and embarking on technical up-skilling to make sure it will play an important role in the EV / PV market over the next 3 years.

Energy – it doesn’t grow on trees

But apples do, especially at Mole End Farms in Kent.

This is a slice of Mole End Farm in Kent, an award-winning grower of apples and pears. Paul Ward, MD and passionate organic grower, summed his business aims up for us:

“Our principal aim is to build a truly ethical and sustainable long-term business, producing a high-quality food product in a fully sustainable manner with the absolute minimum impact on the surrounding environment.”

Paul added: “We aim to market, package and promote our products using the most environmentally sustainable means.”

For years, part of their ‘environmental sustainability’ includes renewable energy. This began a number of years ago and is an ongoing strategy, developing in conjunction with JGF. Power from solar panels has subsidised energy from the grid and EV Charging is in place, just. Now, the whole ‘internal network’ is being extended across the remaining farms in the group.

Joe Forsyth, JGF’s MD, said: “The next phase is to create a ‘power reservoir’, holding surplus power in batteries to balance out the peaks and troughs of production and use. Then, at quieter times on the farm, we will enjoy the blossom, Mole End Farm will sell energy back into the grid. That’s one happy business.”

Cost efficient?

Joe again: “Yes. But let us conduct a survey and see for yourself.”

Author Rodney Bashford
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