Solar Panel Installation in London: A Complete Guide for Homeowners
Solar energy is becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners across London who want to generate their own electricity, reduce their reliance on the grid and make better use of their property’s roof space.
With the right solar PV system, a home can generate clean electricity during daylight hours and potentially reduce the amount of electricity purchased from the grid. Adding battery storage can also allow homeowners to store surplus solar energy and use it later.
If you are considering solar panel installation in London, this guide explains how solar PV systems work, what to consider before installation and how to choose a professional solar installer.
What Is Solar PV?
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity. The electricity generated by the panels can be used to power appliances, lighting and other electrical equipment within your property.
A typical residential solar PV system includes:
- Solar panels
- Inverter
- Mounting system
- Electrical protection equipment
- Monitoring system
- Optional battery storage
The inverter converts the electricity generated by the panels into a form that can be used by the property’s electrical system.
Why Install Solar Panels in London?
Although London does not receive the same level of sunshine as some warmer parts of Europe, solar panels can still generate useful electricity throughout the year.
There are several reasons homeowners consider solar installation.
1. Generate Your Own Electricity
Solar panels allow you to generate electricity at your property instead of purchasing all of your electricity from the grid.
The amount of electricity generated depends on several factors, including the size and orientation of the solar system, shading, roof characteristics and weather conditions.
2. Reduce Grid Dependence
Generating electricity on-site can reduce your reliance on electricity purchased from the grid.
This can be particularly useful when your household has significant daytime electricity consumption.
3. Make Better Use of Your Roof
A suitable roof can provide valuable space for solar generation without requiring additional land.
Homes across Ealing, Acton, Hounslow, Brentford, Chiswick and other parts of West London may have suitable roof areas for solar PV systems, subject to a professional assessment.
4. Combine Solar With Battery Storage
Solar panels generate electricity primarily during daylight hours, while many households also use electricity during the evening.
A battery storage system can store some surplus electricity generated by the solar panels so it can potentially be used later.
This can improve the amount of generated solar electricity that your household uses directly.
How Does a Solar Panel System Work?
The process is relatively straightforward.
Step 1: Solar Panels Generate Electricity
Solar panels installed on the roof capture sunlight and generate DC electricity.
Step 2: The Inverter Converts the Electricity
The inverter converts the generated electricity into AC electricity suitable for use within the property.
Step 3: Your Property Uses the Electricity
Electricity generated by the system can be used by appliances, lighting, heating equipment and other electrical loads.
Step 4: Surplus Electricity Can Be Stored or Exported
If your solar system produces more electricity than the property needs at that moment, the surplus may be stored in a compatible battery or exported to the electricity grid.
The UK’s Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) provides a mechanism through which eligible small-scale generators can receive payments from participating electricity suppliers for electricity exported to the grid. Eligibility and tariff conditions apply.
Do Solar Panels Work in London?
Yes. Solar PV systems do not require hot weather to generate electricity; they require light.
However, the actual output of a solar system varies depending on factors such as:
- Roof orientation
- Roof angle
- Shading
- Panel technology
- System size
- Weather conditions
- Location
- Installation quality
A professional solar installer should assess the property before recommending a system.
How Many Solar Panels Does a London Home Need?
There is no single number that works for every property.
The appropriate system size depends on:
- Household electricity consumption
- Available roof space
- Roof orientation
- Roof shading
- Panel efficiency
- Budget
- Future electricity requirements
- Battery storage requirements
For example, a household with higher electricity consumption may benefit from a larger system if the property has sufficient suitable roof space.
Rather than choosing a system based only on the number of panels, homeowners should have the complete property and energy requirements assessed.
Should You Add a Solar Battery?
Solar battery storage can be a useful addition to a solar PV system.
Without a battery, electricity generated during the day may either be used immediately or exported when generation exceeds the property’s current demand.
With battery storage, some surplus generation can be stored and potentially used later.
Benefits of Solar Battery Storage
A battery can help with:
- Using more of your generated solar electricity
- Reducing reliance on grid electricity
- Managing electricity consumption
- Storing surplus solar generation
- Supporting energy management within the property
Battery storage should be sized according to the solar system, electricity consumption and expected usage pattern rather than simply choosing the largest available battery.
How Much Does Solar Panel Installation Cost in London?
The cost of solar installation varies considerably from property to property.
Factors that can affect the price include:
- Number of solar panels
- Panel specification
- Inverter type
- Roof structure
- Installation complexity
- Scaffolding requirements
- Electrical work
- Battery storage
- Monitoring equipment
- System size
For this reason, homeowners should obtain a property-specific quotation rather than relying on a generic online price.
A professional installer can assess the property and recommend a system based on its energy requirements and available roof space.
Choosing a Solar Panel Installer in London
Choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the panels.
Before accepting a quotation, consider:
Experience
Look for an installer with experience in residential and commercial solar PV installations.
Certification
Ask about relevant certifications and installation standards. Certification can also be important when considering eligibility for schemes such as the Smart Export Guarantee. Ofgem states that eligible installations up to 50kW may need to demonstrate suitable certification, such as an MCS certificate or equivalent, depending on the circumstances.
Complete System Design
A good installer should consider the complete system rather than simply selling a certain number of panels.
Warranty and Aftercare
Ask about product warranties, workmanship warranties, monitoring and ongoing support.
Local Knowledge
A local installer can provide valuable knowledge of the properties and installation requirements common in the area.
Solar Panel Installation in Ealing and West London
MAPS Renewables, by MSC Electric Ltd, is based at:
Suite 12, Ground Floor, Boundary House, Boston Road, London, W7 2QE
The company provides solar panel installation and renewable energy services for homes and businesses across Ealing and surrounding areas.
Services include:
- Solar PV installation
- Solar battery storage
- Residential solar systems
- Commercial solar solutions
- EV charger installation
- Electrical services
MAPS Renewables currently serves customers across areas including Ealing, Acton, Greenwich, Ilford, Wembley, Croydon, Barking, Romford and surrounding London areas.
Is Solar Installation Right for Your Home?
Solar panels can be a valuable option for homeowners looking to generate renewable electricity and improve their energy independence.
However, every property is different.
The best way to determine whether solar is suitable for your home is to have the roof, electricity consumption, shading, system size and potential battery requirements professionally assessed.
Get a Solar Panel Installation Quote in London
If you are looking for solar panel installers in London, MAPS Renewables can assess your property and recommend a solar PV solution based on your requirements.
Based in Ealing, West London, MAPS Renewables provides solar installation and renewable energy services for residential and commercial properties.
Contact the team to discuss your property and request a free, no-obligation solar installation quote in London.