What are the Requirements for Getting Solar Panels Fitted to the Roof of My Home?   by Brunelrowley

in Technology / Electronics    (submitted 2011-11-11)

Green is big these days. We all want to be kind to the planet and we all want to save a few pennies as well. Fuel costs and interest rates are on the rise, meaning lot of us have more to pay but less money to pay it with. Solar panels are an attractive option; they're environmentally friendly, they can save you money and there are even grants available for their installation. So while we'd all love to deck our house out in these lovely plates of waste and cost repellent armour, there are a few things to consider first. Sadly, not all houses are suitable for solar panel installation.

If your house is situated in a conservation area or World Heritage Site, making any alterations to it can be a nightmare. In many cases, solar panel installation will be considered a "permitted development", meaning you won't need planning permission but will have to meet a few extra requirements;

1) As far as is possible, the panels should be sited so as to minimise their aesthetic intrusion. That is, try to make them as inconspicuous as possible.

2) They shouldn't affect the amenity of the area too drastically, i.e. the solar panel installation shouldn't spoil the things that make the conservation area so attractive in the first place.

3) This instrument should be removed as soon as possible should they no longer be in service. So, if you sell the property and the new owner doesn't intend to continue using this wonderful device, they should be removed.

4) Make sure your solar panel installers do not fit them above the ridgeline of your roof. Neither should they project more than 200mm from the roof.

5) Listed buildings will still require the usual consent for any work being done that changes the appearance of the building (just as if you were installing a satellite dish, for example).

Non-listed houses and those outside of conservation areas do still have some regulations placed on them as regards solar panel installation. Obviously, the roof of your house has to be physically able to carry the panels. If your roof is in a poor state of repair, then it may not be strong enough to carry the weight, or may not offer a sufficiently secure anchor for the panels. In these cases, even were solar panel installers to fit them, there is a chance the panels may break the roof or even fall off. The strength of your roof will need to be checked and proven before you have this device installed. If it is not found to be up to scratch, then some strengthening or repair work may be necessary.

Roofs will a northern aspect with a northern aspect are not suitable for the installation of solar panels because they do not get enough light. Neither are those which are totally in the shade. In such cases, Solar panels installation would be a complete waste of time and money, as the panels would simply not receive enough sunlight to function.

One also has to consider all the usual regulations regarding major electrical work. It's advisable to get qualified solar panel installers in to check your house meets all of the essential requirements.

So, as long as your house meets all of these points - or you are willing to have the work done - then Solar panels installers should be able to help you. The secret to green energy and lower fuel bills might be right above your head.

About the Author

Solar Days are Shropshire-based solar panel installers who are happy to advise you on any queries you may have.