Roof Solar Panels.

[Bramleyboy]

I have been seriously planning to have solar panels and a battery storage system installed on my house. BUT I do not know how to go about getting advice and people to fit the system. So far I have drawn a blank and heard from a lot of jokers! Can anyone advise me on where I should apply and any personal experiences would be appreciated. I live in Wiltshire. Any thanks. Bramley.

[Togo]

I don't know how much research you have already done "Bram, but the first link has some info and the second has a questionaire where you can click some boxes and get info relating to your circumstances. You are wise to be cautious regarding qualified and recognised installers and equipment suppliers. Not had the work done but we have looked at it like you.

https://www.eonenergy.com/spark/everything-you-need-to-know-about-home-battery-storage.html#:~:text=Solar%20panels%20convert%20the%20energy%20from%20the%20sun,rather%20than%20being%20sent%20back%20to%20the%20grid.

https://www.theecoexperts.co.uk/solar-panels/storage-batteries-cost

[Buenchico]

Reading reviews on the Ckeckatrade website might be a good starting point:
https://www.checkatrade.com/Search/Solar-Panels/in/Wiltshire
(Then look for further reviews of any likely firms on Google and TrustPilot).

[barry1010]

Also a good starting point for basic, current information
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities/free-solar-panels/

[Fitzer]

Looks like you may have missed this years' Solar Together scheme https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/6264/Solar-panel-and-storage-group-buying-scheme-to-launch-across-Wiltshire I did the Essex one last year and install was this Feb, looking at various adverts my install looks to have saved me about 25-30%. Chances are they'll run another next year or you may be able to piggy back on.

[Togo]

That is a good post from Fitzer for you Bram. I would be checking whether there is another such scheme with your local authority first thing tomorrow.

[davebro]

A neighbour has had a roof panel installed which just heats up water - she says it provides hot water & assists the central heating.

I suppose both sorts work better if you have a south facing roof, my place is SE/NW. I wonder what diff that makes.

[Atheist]

I think that the direction that the roof faces is very important, as is the lack of obstructions such as trees or neighbouring roof extensions (or potential roof extensions). The payback time on solar panels is quite long. Do a lot of research.

[barry1010]

I can't help but wonder why most new houses aren't built with rooves (roofs?) facing the right direction and fitted with solar panels if they are so good. It must be more efficient and cost effective for the developer to install them in bulk during the build than each owner fitting them after completion

[Bramleyboy]

Thank you all very much. It would be unfair to pick a best answer - all were the advice and leads I was seeking. Thank you very much. Bramley.