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Why get solar panels?
There are many benefits to installing solar. Reduce your energy bills for one!
Start Saving Money On Your Energy Bills
Having a solar PV system installed is now an investment opportunity. With costs to install a solar panel system decreasing, the break-even point is now even sooner. At Solar Essex, you can see your system installed from as little as £4,500 (for a small one-bedroom property) and with the cost of energy bills continuing to rise year on year, you could breakeven as soon as 5 years after installation.
Save on Energy Bills
Energy prices have continued to rise since Covid, with no signs of slowing down. Solar panels can protect your household from price hikes, in their lifetime (25 years) they could save you up to £60,000!
Increase Property Value
You increase the value of your home when you invest in the latest solar technology. Solar roof tiles are a smart and attractive addition to any home, highly sought after by people actively looking to buy a new home.
Profit From Your Solar Energy
Any excess energy you generate and do not use can be sold directly back to the grid hassle free. So you not only save on your energy bills but you can actually earn from them too!
Protect your family from rising costs
Pre-purchase your electricity at a fixed unit price, forecast your long-term energy costs and protect your home from future energy price hikes.
Heat your water for free
Maximise the efficiency of your solar PV system by heating your water rather than exporting your free energy back to the grid.
Charge your electric vehicle for free
Integrate your solar panels with an electric vehicle charge point to run your car for free when charged at home.
How much are solar panels?
When considering the cost of solar panels, several factors come into play, including the size of your roof, your household’s electricity consumption, the inclusion of a solar battery, and the number of panels you opt for. Additionally, the type of roofing, the height of your home, and the location of your electric cables can also influence the overall cost.
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On average, homeowners can expect to pay approximately £7,026 for a solar panel system suitable for a typical three-bedroom house. This price corresponds to a system with a capacity of 3.5 kilowatt-peak (kWp), which is generally ideal for the energy needs of such a household.
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For smaller homes, such as one or two-bedroom houses, a 2.1kWp solar panel system may suffice, with prices around £4,216 for a setup featuring six panels. This information highlights the importance of tailoring the solar panel system to fit the specific requirements of your home.
Correct number of panels for your home
When considering the cost of solar panels, several factors come into play, including the size of your roof, your household’s electricity consumption, the inclusion of a solar battery, and the number of panels you opt for. Additionally, the type of roofing, the height of your home, and the location of your electric cables can also influence the overall cost.
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On average, homeowners can expect to pay approximately £7,026 for a solar panel system suitable for a typical three-bedroom house. This price corresponds to a system with a capacity of 3.5 kilowatt-peak (kWp), which is generally ideal for the energy needs of such a household.
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For smaller homes, such as one or two-bedroom houses, a 2.1kWp solar panel system may suffice, with prices around £4,216 for a setup featuring six panels. This information highlights the importance of tailoring the solar panel system to fit the specific requirements of your home.
| Property size | 1-2 bedroom house | 3 bedroom house | 4 bedroom house |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual electricity usage | 1,800 kWh | 2,700 kWh | 4,100 kWh |
| Number of solar panels | 6 | 10 | 14 |
| Average installation cost* | £4,216 | £7,026 | £1092.91 |
| Annual electricity bill savings** | £468.39 | £780.65 | £636.23 |
| Time it takes to break even | 7 years | 7 years | 15.46 years |
| Solar panel profit after 25 years | £30,594 | £51,991 | £73,387 |
At Solar Essex, we make switching to solar simple
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. When you install a solar system with Solar Essex, we fit high-quality solar panels on your roof that capture the sun’s energy and generate clean electricity for your home.
These solar panels are connected to an inverter, which transforms the sunlight into usable power for your household appliances and devices. It’s a reliable, renewable energy source that helps cut down your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
What Happens When You Generate More Solar Power Than You Use?
On sunny days, your solar panels may generate more electricity than you need. With Solar Essex, you can:
- Export the excess energy to the National Grid using the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and get paid for what you don’t use
- Store unused electricity with an optional solar battery, so you can power your home even when the sun isn’t shining
This ensures your solar energy works hard for you day and night.
What If My Roof Isn’t South-Facing?
While a south-facing roof with minimal shading is ideal for maximum solar generation, it’s not a dealbreaker. At Solar Essex, we offer custom-designed solar solutions tailored to your home. Whether that means adjusting the number of solar panels or installing them in an alternative location, our experts will find the best setup for your property.
🌞 Go Solar with Confidence
With Solar Essex, going solar is straightforward, affordable, and designed for long-term savings. Whether you’re looking to reduce your bills, support clean energy, or increase your home’s efficiency, our team is here to help every step of the way.
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Where can you install solar panels?
You may have only ever seen solar panels installed on roofs. There are four ways that panels can be installed on your roof:
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Flat Roof – for flat roofs, panels can be laid in tubs or on frames to ensure that they achieve the correct elevations to maximise sunlight.
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Pitched Roof – pitched roofs are perfect for solar and depending on the direction in which they face, standard metal fixing frames are used to hold panels in place directly on top of the existing roof tiles or surface.
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In-Roof – if you are in the process of fitting a new roof, you can save on material and labour costs by installing in-roof solar. An in-roof system replaces a section of tiles and lies flush with the overall surface of the roof. In-roof solar installations are perfect for new build and renovation projects.
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Solar Slate – if you own a listed property solar slate tiles are an option. These solar installations have the appearance of a standard slate tile roof and the ability to generate solar power.
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Façade – An alternative to a roof installation, solar panels can also be integrated into the façade of your building.
For large-scale commercial installations, we often install at ground level, if the roof space isn’t large enough or suitable. This is ideal if you have sufficient space that can capture as much sunlight as possible. This may also be possible for domestic properties, although it is always dependent on whether the panels can get enough sunlight to make them worthwhile.
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Tubs – ground mount tubs enable you to achieve a low-profile ground-mounted solution and they work well with smaller and domestic installations.
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Frame – most large-scale ground-mounted systems use frames to deliver the best elevation. On agricultural land, increased ground clearance allows for additional use, giving poultry and other livestock the freedom to roam freely.
Questions & Answers
We’ve put together this short FAQ to answer the most common questions and help you feel fully prepared for your installation.
How many people are involved in the installation?
• A qualified roofer
• Two NICEIC-certified electricians
Before your install day, a scaffolding team will visit to safely erect the scaffolding needed for access.
How long does installation take?
The scaffolding team will coordinate with the installation schedule to ensure it’s set up and removed promptly.
Is there anything I need to do before installation?
• Clear access to your loft space and installation areas
• Provide access to your electricity and water supply
• If you’d like assistance setting up system monitoring, please have your WiFi details available
What’s going on my roof?
• Roof anchors – Stainless steel hooks fixed into the rafters to support the system
• Mounting frame – Two aluminium bars per row of solar panels, fixed to the anchors
• Clamps – To hold the panels securely in place
• Solar panels – Panels are typically 1.6m x 1m. Full specs are included in your quote
What’s being installed inside my home?
• Inverter – Usually installed in the loft, as it requires a cool, ventilated space
• Power diverter – (If chosen) Mounted on a wall and connected to your inverter and electricity supply
• Battery storage – If included, typically stored indoors. Placement will be discussed during your survey
• In-home monitoring system – Included with every install. Connect to it via your smartphone or tablet to track system performance
What happens after installation?
• Your MCS certificate
• Your DNO (Distribution Network Operator) approval document
• Your paid invoice
With these documents, you can contact your energy supplier to apply for a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff, allowing you to earn money from excess solar energy exported to the grid.
From scaffolding to certification, Solar Essex ensures a smooth, professional experience at every step. Our expert team is here to help you take control of your energy and start saving with solar.
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Do I Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels?
If you’re considering switching to solar panels for your home, one of the most common questions is: “Do I need planning permission?” The good news is that, for most domestic properties, the answer is no.
Solar Installations Without Planning Permission
Under Permitted Development Rights, planning permission is not required for most homes in England and Wales—as long as certain conditions are met. At Solar Essex, we ensure all installations are compliant with these regulations, so you can go solar without the stress.
To avoid the need for planning permission, your solar panel installation must:
- Be designed to minimise the impact on the building’s external appearance
- Ensure that unused equipment is removed when no longer needed
- Not exceed the highest part of the roof or extend more than 0.2 metres beyond the roof slope
When You May Need Planning Permission
While most properties are covered under Permitted Development, there are some exceptions where additional permissions or checks may be required.
Flat Roof Installations
Thanks to regulatory changes in 2023, flat roof installations now fall under Permitted Development and typically do not require planning permission.
🔧 However, we recommend a structural survey to ensure your flat roof is capable of safely supporting a solar panel system.
Listed Buildings
If your home is a listed property or located within the curtilage of a listed building, you will need:
- Listed Building Consent
- Planning Permission
Always consult your local planning authority before proceeding. The Solar Essex team can also guide you through the process.
Conservation Areas
If your home is a listed property or located within the curtilage of a listed building, you will need:
- Listed Building Consent
- Planning Permission
Always consult your local planning authority before proceeding. The Solar Essex team can also guide you through the process.
💬 Need Advice? Solar Essex Is Here to Help
At Solar Essex, our experienced team handles every aspect of your solar panel installation, including planning permission guidance. We’ll make sure everything is compliant—so you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy with peace of mind.
Still unsure if planning permission applies to your home? Contact Solar Essex today, and we’ll walk you through it.
Fully Accredited Solar Installers
Reduce your energy bills with the UK’s leading solar company
The Future Is Bright
Thinking of getting a solar system installed and want to know the pros and cons of solar energy? Don’t worry about spending hours searching online, getting caught up in technical jargon, and trying to figure out what system is best. Here at Solar Essex, we’ve done the hard work, so you don’t have to.
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So, let’s get the bad stuff out of the way…
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High initial cost: The initial outlay for the supply and installation of your system can be high. However, our experienced technicians at Solar Essex can custom design an efficient system that works for you and your budget. There are also finance options available that may reduce the initial upfront costs.
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Potential placement issues: The optimal setup for a solar installation is a south-facing roof with an angle of 30° to 40°. Consulting a specialist—like the team at Solar Essex—will ensure your system is optimised for your property.
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Varying efficiency levels: Solar panels work at their best in sunlight. While solar panels are more efficient in direct sunlight, thanks to recent technology developments, they can still generate electricity even on cloudy days or during winter. To avoid relying on the grid during low-generation periods or at night, you can pair your solar system with a solar battery to store excess power.
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Now let’s talk about the good stuff—what are the benefits of having a solar system installed?
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Lower your electricity bills: Solar panels allow you to enjoy free electricity. Depending on your usage and the system you install, you could potentially save up to £1,100 a year on your electricity bill.
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Earn money back: You can sell any excess electricity you produce back to the grid and earn money through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
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Reduce reliance on the grid: Solar panels protect you from fluctuating energy costs. When paired with a solar battery, you can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid and support your household’s energy needs independently.
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Require low maintenance: Solar panels require little to no maintenance. Occasional cleaning with water to remove dust or debris, and periodic checks for damage, are all that’s needed.
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Reduce your carbon footprint: By reducing your dependence on fossil fuel–based energy, you can cut your carbon footprint by up to one tonne of carbon emissions per year—for an average three-bedroom home.
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So, what are you waiting for?
Call us today to get a free quote and design—and start your journey toward a cheaper and greener future.
Get Paid for Your Solar Power
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government-backed scheme that allows homeowners and businesses to earn money by selling unused electricity back to the grid. After your solar PV installation, any excess electricity produced by your solar panels can generate extra income—making your investment even more valuable.
How Does SEG Work?
- Energy suppliers pay you for every unit of electricity your solar panels export to the grid
- You do not need to purchase electricity from the same supplier that provides your SEG tariff
- However, some suppliers offer better SEG rates to customers who both import and export electricity
That’s why it’s smart to shop around for the best SEG tariff for your needs.
Installed by Solar Essex = SEG-Ready
At Solar Essex, we use only MCS-certified installers—a requirement for eligibility under SEG. This means you’ll be ready to apply for your SEG tariff as soon as your system is installed.
You’ll receive a complete handover pack on installation day, including:
- 📄 MCS Certificate
- âš¡ DNO (Distribution Network Operator) Approval
- 🧾 Paid Invoice
These documents are all required to register for SEG with your chosen energy provider.
Do I Need a Smart Meter?
While smart meters are not required for installing your solar panel system, you will need one to benefit from most SEG tariffs.
- Some suppliers offer limited SEG options without a smart meter
- To maximise your export earnings, we strongly recommend having a smart meter installed
Boost Your Savings with Battery Storage
At Solar Essex, we also recommend adding battery storage to your solar panel system. This lets you store excess energy for use at night or during cloudy days—increasing your savings and reducing your reliance on the grid even further.
Start Earning with Solar Essex
With expert installation, SEG-ready documentation, and ongoing support, Solar Essex helps you make the most of your solar panel investment—from reducing bills to earning income.
Have questions about SEG or battery storage? Get in touch today and speak with one of our friendly solar experts.
Save up to 70% on bills and earn by exporting back to the grid
Do I Need to Consider Battery Storage?
When installing solar panels with Solar Essex, one of the smartest ways to increase your savings is to include battery storage with your system.
What Happens Without a Battery?
Without a battery, any excess electricity your solar panels generate during the day is automatically exported to the National Grid. While you’ll still save money and earn through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you’re missing out on the opportunity to use that free solar energy at night—when your panels aren’t generating.
Why Add Battery Storage?
A battery system lets you store unused electricity from your solar panels and use it later—like during the evening or on cloudy days. This helps you:
- Reduce your reliance on the National Grid
- Lower your electricity bills even further
- Protect yourself from rising energy costs
- Maximise the benefits of your solar panel investment
At Solar Essex, our battery systems are expertly installed to work seamlessly with your solar panels and provide real-time energy usage and storage insights.
What If I Don’t Want a Battery?
Not ready to invest in battery storage? You’ll still benefit from solar panels and can optimise your energy use with a few simple changes:
- ✅ Use timers to run high-energy appliances (dishwashers, washing machines, etc.) during the day
- ✅ Install a power diverter to use surplus electricity to heat your water via an immersion heater
- ✅ Add an Energy Management System (EMS) to automate and prioritise in-home energy use
Plus, with or without a battery, you can still benefit from the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) by earning money on the electricity you export to the grid. Visit our SEG information page for more details.
Ready to Maximise Your Solar Savings?
Whether you’re just starting your journey or considering upgrades, Solar Essex is here to guide you through the process with clear, honest advice. Talk to us about the benefits of battery storage, and let’s design the perfect solar setup for your home.
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What’s Included with Solar Essex?
At Solar Essex, we take pride in delivering a complete, stress-free solar experience—from your initial quote to final installation. Our dedicated and experienced team will make personalised recommendations based on your property’s layout, energy usage, and long-term savings potential.
Personalised Quoting Process
Using advanced online tools, our team will assess your roof and property remotely. Combined with your annual electricity usage, we’ll provide a customised quote for the most efficient solar PV system to suit your needs.
We’ll walk you through every detail, including optional extras like solar batteries, and answer all your questions—with no pressure, no jargon, and no fuss.
What’s Included in Your Solar Essex Installation?
When you choose Solar Essex, your quote includes everything needed to get your system up and running—with no hidden costs:
- Scaffolding
- Full installation by qualified technicians
- Premium solar panels
- Inverter
- All cabling and fixing kits
- Solar battery (if selected)
- In-home monitoring system
- Guarantee and warranty documentation
Every solar panel system is installed by experienced, certified professionals, ensuring safety, quality, and long-term performance.
Do I Need a Smart Meter?
While smart meters are not required for installing your solar panel system, you will need one to benefit from most SEG tariffs.
- Some suppliers offer limited SEG options without a smart meter
- To maximise your export earnings, we strongly recommend having a smart meter installed
Start Saving with Solar Essex
Whether you’re looking to reduce your bills, lower your carbon footprint, or become less reliant on the grid, Solar Essex delivers a tailored solution that works for you.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for your free, no-obligation quote and see how much you could save with solar.
FAQs
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