FAQS

Frequently asked questions

For answers to questions you may have relating to Solar PV, Battery Storage, New Builds and Ground Mounts.

Why Solar Power?

Today’s technology is cost effective, simple to install and helps both Planet & Pocket.

Helping the planet

Over 25 years the average home solar system offsets the same amount of CO2 as recycling 16 tonnes of domestic waste or driving a family car for 112,745 miles. That’s the same as driving around the Earth 4.5 times

Helping your pocket

An average 4kWp home solar array, generating 4,000 kWh per year, could result in annual savings of between £200 and £650 per annum.

For example, if your 4kWp solar array generated 4,000 kWh per year and you were able to consume 2,000 units (50%), then the saving against a rate of 17p would result in an annual saving of £340.

This is dependent on how much solar energy you use of course, and your own personal needs and requirements.

Some of our business customers have saved between £8,000 and £40,000 per annum.

Do I need bright sunlight to generate solar power?

Solar technology reacts to daylight, not sunlight. Our country’s overcast weather is well suited for solar, as it also offers the ideal operating temperature. Today, London generates the same amount of solar power as Madrid and the UK is Europe’s fastest-growing adopter of solar energy.

Do I need a south-facing roof?

Not necessarily. South facing panels offer the best performance but installations facing east and west come a very close second. Our consultants will assess your property to ensure that solar will be viable for you.

Can solar be installed on to any type of roof?

Solar PV is designed to fit onto most roof coverings including; slate, tile, fibre-cement, tin, corrugated, standing seam and box profile.

We can also install integrated roof systems too.

Our consultants can advise further.

How many panels will I need?

A typical Solar PV system for the home is made up of 10 solar panels producing about 4,000*kWhs of free electricity per year. (*a kWh is a unit of electricity). Most of our customers use between 4,000 and 6,000kWh’s per year in their home.

I can’t have solar panels on my roof, are there any other options available to me?

Yes, we can install solar panels on outbuildings including barns, sheds, and garages. We can also install ground mounted systems.

Do you have more information on Ground Mounted systems?

Yes. You can find out more here: https://www.moleenergy.com/ground-mount/

Do I need to get planning permission?

Roof mounted, home solar panel installations are seen as ‘permitted developments’, so the majority of customers will not need to apply for planning permission; unless your home is listed, or you wish to have a ground mount. Planning consent might still be required in a conservation area so it is advisable to check with your local planning authority/portal.

How long will my solar installation take?

Most home installations take a day (or two) at the most. Our consultants will be able to provide a more accurate estimate once they’ve carried out your initial survey.

What size system will fit on my roof?

A 20m2 roof will typically fit a 4kWp system comfortably. We install systems from 4kWp to over 100kWp and will be able to advise on the best size to suit your needs and roof space.

What is an inverter?

The inverter is the brains behind your whole solar system. Inverters take the DC (direct current) from your solar panels and turn them into AC (alternating current) for use in your home and by the Grid. Your Mole Energy consultant will ensure that yours is placed in the best position possible, in line with the manufacturer’s guidance and required aesthetics.

What about Battery Storage Systems?

Many of our customers choose to add a battery system to their solar array to enable them to store any excess power generated, when normally it would have been lost back to the National Grid.

Instead, any excess power can be utilised to help meet your home energy needs in the summer, manage additional consumption in the winter and improve self-reliance throughout the year, particularly in the event of a power cut.

With all Home Storage Battery systems, we will need to seek permission from your DNO, (District Network Operator), which will be the National Grid (previously Western Power) or SSE.

You can find out more here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

And here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/battery-storage-solar-edge/

What are the benefits of adding a battery storage system to my solar array?

Adding a battery to your solar array will enable you to store any excess power generated, when normally it would have been lost back to the National Grid.

Instead, any excess power generated can be utilised to help meet your home energy needs, manage additional consumption and improve self-reliance; particularly in the event of a power cut.

For additional peace of mind some of our batteries have a “reserve” setting, which ensures there will always be stored power within your battery, available when required.

With all Home Storage Battery systems, we will need to seek permission from your DNO, (District Network Operator), which will be the National Grid (previously Western Power) or SSE.

You can find out more here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

And here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/battery-storage-solar-edge/

Where is a battery storage system installed and how much space does it require?

Depending on the type of system, batteries can be installed both inside and outside of the property.

An average storage system will require approximately 1 – 2m² of wall space.

You can find out more here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

And here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/battery-storage-solar-edge/

 

I already have a solar array which was previously installed by someone else. Can Mole Energy still install my battery?

Yes, whether your solar array was fitted by Mole Energy or another company, we can install your battery for you.

I have a wind turbine. Can Mole Energy install my battery?

Yes, a Tesla battery is particularly compatible with wind turbines.

Read more here: https://www.moleenergy.com/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

Do battery systems work when you have a power-cut?

A great feature of the Tesla Powerwall 2 is that it allows you to continue to power your home, even in the event of a power-cut. This improves your self-reliance throughout the year.

Read more here: https://www.moleenergy.com/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

*It’s important to note that there are many systems on the market that cannot provide you with power in the event of a power-cut*

*All battery systems, with a back-up function, will require District Network Operator (DNO) approval, prior to installation. We will seek approval on your behalf.*

Are there different size battery systems and if so, which is the right one for me?

Yes, battery systems come in all shapes and sizes, with different storage capacities and discharge rates. Our consultants will discuss the right option for you, based on your own personal requirements and usage.

There are many batteries out in the market and it’s important to be aware that low-cost battery options are likely to be low capacity and of little value in terms of self-sufficiency or energy bill saving.

For more information about the batteries we install, please visit:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

And here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/battery-storage-solar-edge/

I don’t have a Solar PV system but can I still have a battery; either as a back-up, in the event of a power cut, or to help reduce my energy bills?

Yes, more and more people are opting for a battery so they can charge on cheap electricity at night and release the stored power during the day. This offers significant bill savings.

The battery will also keep your home running in the event of a power cut.

Will a battery storage system affect my FiT payments?

No, if the correct battery system is designed for you, then this will not have any impact on your  FiT (Feed in Tariff) payments.

Our consultants will be able to advise you further.

What types of battery do you install?

There are so many battery options on the market that, for the consumer, it can be overwhelming.

Our consultants will be able to advise on the best option for you, from the select range we have narrowed down on your behalf. Our battery storage range starts at £8,177 installed, for a SolarEdge Energy Bank 10kW battery – through to £11,225 installed for the Tesla Powerwall 2, which has 13.5kWh’s of storage capacity and a power-cut, backup function.

You can find out more here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

And here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/battery-storage-solar-edge/

I am building a new house, why should I have Solar PV?

Today’s technology is cost effective, simple to install and helps both Planet & Pocket.

Helping the planet

Over 25 years the average home solar system offsets the same amount of CO2 as recycling 16 tonnes of domestic waste or driving a family car for 112,745 miles. That’s the same as driving around the Earth 4.5 times.

Helping your pocket

An average 4kWp home solar array, generating 4,000 kWh per year, could result in annual savings of between £200 and £650 per annum.

For example, if your 4kWp solar array generated 4,000 kWh per year and you were able to consume 2,000 units (50%), then the saving against a rate of 17p would result in an annual saving of £340.

This is dependent on how much solar energy you use of course, and your own personal needs and requirements.

Some of our business customers have saved between £8,000 and £40,000 per annum.

Is there anything I need to provide, prior to me contacting Mole Energy for a quotation?

We will need a set of drawings showing the roof elevations and dimensions, so we can design your bespoke solar array for you. We often work with customers’ architects who can provide the relevant details and specification.

How much roof space do I require?

Approximately 8m x 3.5m (26.5ft x 11.5ft).

Can Solar PV be installed onto all roof coverings?

Solar PV systems can be fitted to most roof coverings, including slate, tile, fibre, cement, tin, corrugated and box profile.

We also install integrated roof systems too.

Our consultants can advise further.

At what stage will I need to design and order my Solar PV system?

You can contact us at any time during the process but no later than when the roof covering has been ordered (or fitted) and before the scaffolding has been taken down.

The ideal time would be at the design stage, as our consultants can advise on location of panels.

What about Battery Storage Systems?

Many of our customers choose to add a battery system to their solar array, so they can store any excess power generated, (which would normally have been lost back to the National Grid); to help meet their home energy needs in the summer, manage additional consumption in the winter and improve self-reliance throughout the year, particularly in the event of a power cut.

You can find out more here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

And here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/battery-storage-solar-edge/

Why a Ground Mount?

There are circumstances when Solar PV is not suitable for a roof, for example, if your property is listed, your roof is heavily shaded, or your roof is just not big enough.

It can also be a preferred choice too.

What does a Ground Mount look like?

Ground Mounts can be secured into the ground using a galvanised ground screw (which winds into the earth) or it can be secured using concrete, depending on the type of ground, (for example if it is stony).

This is an example of a ground screw system.

Read more here: https://www.moleenergy.com/ground-mount/

 

Do I require planning?

Yes, you do and we can help and advise with this process which normally takes around eight weeks.

How far can the system be installed away from the main property?

Usually up to 100 metres (329ft). Any further than this will be dependent on communications and budget, in terms of armoured cabling and civil works, which can then become cost prohibitive.

How big an area is required for a Ground Mount?

You will require approximately 8m x 3.5m (26.5ft x 11.5ft).

Does the area need to be flat?

Not necessarily, we can install on slopes.

How long will it take to install?

Normally a day but it can take two, if the installation involves longer cable runs and civil works.

Do I have to do any preparation work, prior to the installation taking place?

We can manage and carry out all of the works for you, if you wish. However, some of our customers prefer to carry out some of the trenching, cabling, and civil works, themselves, to help reduce costs.

Can I still have a Home Storage Battery system?

Yes, you can but the battery will have to be located at the property nearest the incoming meter and, as with all Home Storage Batteries, we will need to seek permission from your DNO, (District Network Operator), which will be the National Grid (previously Western Power) or SSE.

Many of our customers choose to add a battery system to their solar array to enable them to store any excess power generated, when normally it would have been lost back to the National Grid.

Instead, any excess power can be utilised to help meet your home energy needs in the summer, manage additional consumption in the winter and improve self-reliance throughout the year, particularly in the event of a power cut.

For additional peace of mind some of our batteries have a “reserve” setting, which ensures there will always be stored power within your battery, available when required.

You can find out more here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/tesla-powerwall-2-0/

And here:https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/battery-storage-solar-edge/

Will my Solar PV system charge my electric car?

Yes, it can. Mole Energy can install a clever device from Myenergi, called a Zappi, which could significantly reduce your fuel bills! Our consultants can advise you further, but in the meantime, please click on the following links to find out more.

Read more here: https://www.moleenergy.com/homeowners/zappi-electric-vehicle-charging/

 

What is the situation with VAT?

VAT is zero rated for all home solar installations.

Battery storage installations are also zero rated but only if purchased at the same time as your solar array. Our consultants will be able to advise you further.

How long will it take to install my Solar PV system?

We can normally fit your system over two or three site visits and we will work with your construction team, on site, to accommodate your build schedule.

Do I require planning permission for my Solar PV system?

Although you can install solar under permitted development rights it is a good idea to add solar panels to your planning application drawings if possible. Planning consent might still be required in a conservation area so it is advisable to check with your local planning authority/portal.

Does my Solar PV array need to be installed onto the property’s main roof?

No, your solar array could be installed onto a garage, outbuilding or on the ground, in the form of a ground mount.

For more information: https://www.moleenergy.com/ground-mount/

Does my Solar PV have to be installed onto a south facing roof?

No, Solar PV works well on both east and west orientations too.

Do I need to inform building control?

It’s not necessary as we will self-certify your installation and provide you with a building control certificate.

Mole Energy is an accredited member of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). MCS is an internationally recognised quality assurance scheme, supported by the Department for Business, Energy, and Industry Strategy (BEIS). MCS certifies installation companies and helps to ensure that products and installations are to a high standard.

Are there any tariffs still available?

From January 2020, the larger energy providers are obliged to offer a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) to solar owners. This means there will be various tariffs available that enable you to sell your unused solar energy back to your provider. You will need a smart meter to be able to do this and tariffs will vary from supplier to supplier.

We advise that you personally check with your chosen energy provider as tariffs will vary by company and over time. Each energy supplier will determine the rate they will pay, their contract length and other terms.

For more information, please visit Ofgem’s website.

Are there any grants available to me?

Grant availability varies so we recommend you visit the UK Gov’s website and search, Improve Energy Efficiency, for the most current information.

What is the rate of VAT as I have heard this can vary?

VAT is zero rated for all home solar installations.

Battery storage installations are also zero rated but only if purchased at the same time as your solar array. Our consultants will be able to advise you further.

Why Mole Energy?

Mole Energy is part of the Mole Valley Farmer’s family, which means we are entrusted to deliver a service worthy of 60 years’ heritage and reputation. Whilst our products and services are always evolving, our values remain constant and we remain committed to the co-operative principles that have guided the organisation for over half a century.

Mole Energy was awarded “Best Installer” at the 2019 British Renewable Energy Awards, and a “Customer Service Excellence” award by Tesla.

To read what our customers have to say please follow the links to:

Customer cases studies/news:
https://www.moleenergy.com/news/

About Us:
https://www.moleenergy.com/about-us/

 

I’d like a quotation, what happens next?

Please contact our friendly team by phone or email and we will arrange for one of our consultants to contact you.

01803 732946

[email protected]

Or visit our contact page

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