The switch to solar energy and battery storage is an exciting step towards sustainability and energy independence.
You may have already considered having solar panels installed in your home or your business, but do you know how the installation process works?
In this guide, we’ll explore the full installation process, from initial proposal to seeing those shiny money makers sat nicely on your roof!
Let’s dive in!
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Quick Takeaways:
When planning permission is required, e.g., for large systems, this will be the first step.
Next is a property Assessment: Evaluating electrics, roof condition, and orientation for suitability.
System design is then completed with MCS-accredited software for tailored solar setups.
A pre-installation meeting with installers to finalise layout and preferences.
Installation Process: Two-day process with a team, minimal disruption.
G99 Approval: Compliance process for connecting to the grid, handled by Heatable.
Solar Export Tariff: Start earning from excess energy with proper registration.
Monitoring & Maintenance: Tools for tracking performance will be explained and advice for upkeep provided.
Get a new solar quote (finance available).
1. Do you need planning permission?
In some cases, you do need planning permission for solar panels, but not always in the way you might expect.
For example, if you live in a built-up area like Canary Wharf in London, you may be allowed to install solar panels if they are not street-facing. It’s always best to check with your local council to confirm specific requirements.
If your property is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), you may need to apply for permission before installing solar panels.
Generally, councils approve these applications if a full planning request is submitted, but it’s wise to verify this before making any commitments.
For larger systems, such as ground-mounted solar arrays, planning permission is usually required. These applications tend to be more detailed, and some councils even enforce specific mounting system requirements.
Before investing a significant sum, be sure to check with your local council to avoid any unexpected hurdles.
At Heatable, we cannot submit planning applications on behalf of customers, but we can assist in certain situations where councils require specific technical information. If you're unsure about the process, we’re more than happy to guide you in the right direction.
2. Property assessment
Before installing solar panels on your property, it's important to do a little homework to ensure your home is suitable.
For example, check that your electrics meet current regulations; if not, a rewire may be needed.
Also, assess the age and condition of your roof tiles and ballasts, as older or damaged roofing may require repairs before installation.
Many homeowners eager to go solar overlook these key factors, but a quick check now can save you time, money, and headaches later!
It’s also worth checking the direction of your roof space to gain maximum efficiency. Solar panels perform best when they’re installed on a south-facing roof, but be mindful that shading from trees, chimneys, and even nearby buildings can massively impact your potential energy savings.
Explore a Solar Case Study: Check out an insightful Q&A session featured in one of our detailed case studies on domestic solar panels. Hear directly from a Heatable customer in the UK and gain valuable perspectives on their experience here.
The image above shows a 23-panel solar installation, carried out by the MCS-certified solar team at Heatable, featuring the REA Fusion2 solar panels.
3. Design of the system
At Heatable, we’re all about making your switch to solar simple and hassle-free. To do that, we use top-quality, MCS-accredited solar design software to bring your solar dreams to life.
This clever software helps us figure out the best solar setup for your home by taking key factors into account, like your energy use, roof direction, shading, and available space.
With MCS technology, we can accurately calculate the most efficient system for you, ensuring you get the best performance and long-term savings.
Most of our customers already have an idea of the kind of solar system they want, but whether you're sure or need a bit of guidance, we’re here to fine-tune the details and make sure you get the perfect fit.
4. Survey
The survey is a key step in your solar journey, it's your chance to meet the installers who will be carrying out your installation and ask any technical questions you might have.
During the survey, you’ll also go over the layout of your solar panels and the placement of your battery (if you've chosen one).
The installers will carefully measure your roof space to ensure all proposed panels fit within the MCS regulations. If you're looking to maximise your system, they can even advise whether there’s room for additional panels.
You'll also have the opportunity to discuss cable routes and how you’d like everything to be installed - whatever your preferences, we’ll make sure your system is installed to the highest standards, both in performance and appearance.
5. Installation day
Finally, the big day has arrived! The scaffolding is up, the digestives are out, and the excitement is building. While it's an exciting milestone, you might be wondering what to expect over the next couple of days.
To kick things off, your installers will arrive early and conduct a full walkthrough to explain the day’s schedule, ensuring you’re informed about the timeframes and where they’ll be focusing their efforts. This is a great time to let them know if you have any specific preferences for the installation process.
A typical solar and battery installation takes around two days, with a team consisting of one electrician and two roofers.
The electrician will handle the wiring, including the DC cables and installing your isolator switches, while the roofers will be busy mounting the solar panels onto the roof rails.
It’s a well-coordinated process that ensures your system is installed to the highest standards, with minimal disruption to your daily life!
Check out one of the largest Solar Panel Case Studies Heatable has conducted to date:
6. G99 approval
G99 approval, my favourite part of the process! While it involves a bit of technical know-how, it’s also one of the most critical steps to ensure your system complies with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO).
Before installing a solar system, it’s important to determine whether you need a G98 notification or a G99 application.
A G98 notification is typically required for smaller systems (below 3.68kW). This notification is submitted after installation, meaning you don’t need prior approval from your DNO.
On the other hand, any system over 3.68kW requires pre-approval through a G99 application. This process can take up to 45 working days for approval, although some regions have faster turnaround times.
At Heatable, we handle the entire G98/G99 application process for you before your system is installed. This ensures that your solar setup is fully compliant with your DNO’s regulations, giving you peace of mind that everything is in place before the installation begins.
7. Registering for the solar export tariff
If you’ve recently had solar panels installed, you might be wondering how to make the most of the energy your system generates.
One great way to boost the value of your solar setup is by registering for a SEG tariff. Instead of letting that extra solar energy go to waste, you can get paid for it, lowering your payback period and allowing your system to essentially pay for itself.
To register for the SEG, you'll need a G99 approval letter and an MCS certificate from your installer.
These documents confirm your system’s compliance and eligibility, which you can then pass on to an energy provider offering SEG tariffs, like Octopus Energy or EON.
If you choose Heatable for your installation, we’ll provide you with all the necessary paperwork to get you set up with your electricity supplier, making the process simple and quick.
8. Monitoring and maintenance
After your installation, our team will set up the mobile apps for you, allowing you to easily monitor your solar system. You’ll be able to track your energy generation, battery charge, and export levels in real time.
Additionally some apps allow you to input your payback details to get an accurate visual of how long it will take to recoup your investment. It’s a simple and convenient way to stay on top of your system’s performance and your savings!
It’s advised to have an MCS-qualified installer come around every few years to check over the system and ensure that your panels aren’t planning for an early retirement.
If you notice over time that your panel’s performance drops, it might be because something is casting a shadow over your panels, so worth getting the garden trimmers out and cutting down any branches which might be in the way.
Next Steps For Your Solar Journey:
When planning to install solar panels for your home, there are several important factors to consider. Make sure to refer to the following guides to help you make informed decisions:
To dive deeper into these topics, head over to our advice section, check out our YouTube channel for informative videos, or read a customer case study to see how others have benefited from their solar installation.
Get a Quote for Solar Today
Without boasting, you should get your solar installed with us, here's why:
Thousands of Happy Customers: We boast an average score of 4.9 on Trustpilot, outperforming the market leader.
Which? Trusted Trader: Heatable is proudly recognised as a Which? Trusted Trader.
MCS Accredited: Our accreditation by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) ensures high-quality standards.
Exclusive Panels: We offer REA Fusion solar panels, available only through Heatable.
Consumer Protection: As members of the HIES consumer code, we provide 2-year deposit protection.
Flexible Payment Options: Choose from multiple payment methods, including finance options.
Fixed Price Guarantee: Enjoy transparency with no hidden costs.
Save Your Quote: You can save your quote and decide later.
Bespoke Design Tool: Draw your own conclusion (literally) on whether solar is worth it for you, here.
