The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Solar Panel Installers

The process of getting solar panels installed begins with assessing the property (either in person or with Soly’s virtual consultation) to design a customised system that covers the needs of your home. Once approved, the installer obtains permits and mounts the solar panels to the roof. They will also connect the wiring and inverters, test functionality and connect the system to the grid or battery storage so you can use the power from your solar system in your home. Regular monitoring and maintenance ensure optimal performance and longevity of the system.

Types of Solar Panels and Installation Methods

There are two main types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline panels are made from highly efficient single silicon crystals. Polycrystalline panels are made from multiple silicon fragments, providing a more affordable option with slightly lower efficiency. The solar panel installation method will involve either a rooftop or a ground-mounted system. Solar installers mount panels directly onto the roof of a building, or on the ground using racks or mounts. Each method has its advantages and considerations, depending on factors such as available space, roof condition and shading.

Spotlight on Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline solar panels are known for their high efficiency, typically ranging from 15% to 24%. This means monocrystalline panels tend to generate more electricity per square meter than polycrystalline panels, making them an attractive option for a solar panel installation with limited space, such as smaller rooftops. Their sleek black appearance also blends seamlessly with rooftops for more esthetic appeal.

When reviewing a solar panel installer’s portfolio, look for the following key indicators of reliability and quality:

• Experience: Verify how long the installer has been in business and their track record of completed projects. More experienced installers like Soly (with over 10 years of experience) often have a better understanding of local regulations, best practices and potential challenges.
• Credentials: Verify the installer’s certifications and accreditations, such as Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certification. These credentials demonstrate the installer’s expertise and commitment to industry standards.
• Testimonials: Look for feedback from past customers regarding their experiences with the installer. Positive reviews and testimonials can provide insights into the installer’s professionalism, communication and overall satisfaction with the completed project.
• Warranty and Support: Consider the warranties offered on installations and the installer’s commitment to ongoing maintenance and support. A reputable installer Soly (who offers industry-leading customer assurances) should stand behind their workmanship and offer comprehensive warranties for peace of mind.

Evaluating Solar Installer’s Customer Projects

Case studies and customer projects completed by solar panel installers offer valuable insights into their expertise and reliability. By examining these examples, you can assess the installer’s track record and gauge their ability to deliver successful outcomes. For example, case studies showcasing a variety of installations, such as residential, commercial, rooftop, and ground-mounted systems, demonstrate the installer’s versatility and proficiency across different projects.

A solar panel installer helps homeowners work out how many solar panels they need and how to place them to ensure maximum energy generation. Their expertise ensures that the system is optimised for efficiency, reliability and longevity. Solar installers provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process, helping you navigate the complexities of permits, incentives and financing options. By empowering homeowners to adopt solar energy, installers contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy independence.

Solar Installers’ Tools and Equipment Quality

High-quality tools and equipment are essential for ensuring the success and longevity of solar installations. When evaluating a solar installer’s capabilities, homeowners should look for the following:

• Quality Brands: Reputable solar installers use trusted and reliable brands for solar panels, inverters, mounting hardware and other components. Brands with a proven track record of performance and durability are preferred.
• Proper Sizing and Design: A skilled solar installer will conduct thorough site assessments and use advanced tools for accurate sizing and design of the solar panel system. This ensures optimal performance and maximum energy production.
• Safety Equipment: Homeowners should ensure that the installer adheres to safety standards and provides appropriate safety equipment for their team.
• Warranty Coverage: High-quality equipment typically comes with comprehensive warranty coverage. Homeowners should verify the warranty details for the solar panels, inverters and other components to ensure protection against defects and malfunctions.

Essential Solar Installer Equipment Checklist

A reliable solar installer should have the following tools and equipment:

• Solar Panels: High-quality solar panels from reputable brands, sized and designed according to the specific installation requirements.
• Inverters: Reliable inverters for converting DC electricity generated by solar panels into usable AC electricity for the home.
• Mounting Hardware: Durable mounting hardware, including racks, rails, clamps and fasteners, for securely installing solar panels on rooftops.
• Electrical Wiring and Connectors: Proper wiring and connectors for safely connecting solar panels, inverters and other components to the electrical system.
• Solar Panel Testers: Specialised testing equipment for verifying the performance and efficiency of solar panels before and after installation.
• Safety Equipment: Essential safety equipment, such as harnesses, ladders, helmets, gloves and safety glasses, to ensure the well-being of the solar installer team during installation.
• Solar Pathfinders or Sun Path Calculators: Tools for accurately assessing shading and sun exposure to optimise the placement and orientation of solar panels for maximum energy production.
• Power Tools: Various power tools, including drills, saws and screwdrivers, for cutting, drilling and assembling components.
• Electrical Testing Tools: Instruments for testing voltage, current and resistance to ensure the proper functioning and safety of the solar panel system.
• Documentation and Permitting Tools: Software and tools for generating permits, documentation and paperwork required for regulatory compliance and approval.

Choosing installers backed by trusted credentials and certifications helps you guarantee quality and expertise for your solar installation project. Look for installers that are MCS certified, which demonstrates that the installer has met rigorous standards of training and competence in solar energy systems. Check for licenses, insurance and accreditations specific to your region to ensure compliance with local regulations and industry standards.

Verifying Insurance and Warranty Offerings

Reputable solar installers in the UK should offer insurance and warranties to safeguard your investment:

Performance Guarantee
A performance warrantee ensures that the solar system will perform as expected for a specific number of years. At Soly, for example, customers can expect industry-leading 25-year performance warranties. During this time, we will replace any issues.

Product Warranty
This covers the solar panels, inverters and other components against defects in materials and workmanship. Typically, reputable manufacturers provide solar panel warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years, or up to 25 years with Soly’s industry-leading warranties. This ensures peace of mind and protection against unexpected failures.

Workmanship Warranty
This warranty guarantees the quality of the installation and workmanship provided by the solar installer. It covers any installation-related issues, such as leaks or faulty wiring, for a specified period after installation. A workmanship warranty of two to five years is common among reputable solar installers in the UK, while Soly offers an industry-leading 10-year workmanship guarantee.

Insurance
In addition to warranties, reputable solar installers should also carry liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance. Liability insurance protects homeowners against property damage or personal injury that may occur during the installation process, while professional indemnity insurance covers errors or negligence in design or advice provided by the installer.

How to Confirm Solar Installer Insurance Validity?

Request proof of insurance documents directly from the installer. These documents typically include a certificate of insurance issued by the insurance provider, outlining coverage details such as liability and professional indemnity insurance. You can also contact the insurance provider directly to confirm the validity and coverage of the policy. Check for any complaints or claims filed against the installer with relevant regulatory bodies or consumer protection agencies. This can give you peace of mind throughout the solar installation process.

Soly, a Shell-UK-backed venture, is committed to sustainable practices throughout the installation process. We prioritise eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient processes and responsible waste disposal to minimise environmental impact during the installation process. As a BCorp company, Soly meets high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. By choosing Soly, eco-conscious homeowners can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.

Sustainable Materials Used by Soly Installers

Soly, like many leading solar installation companies, uses high-quality, recyclable materials for solar panels, inverters and mounting hardware. We partner with Trina Solar, a provider committed to high standards throughout the manufacturing process. With more efficient factories, they emit less CO2 every year. Trina Solar is also a member of the PV Cycle, which means that all products are recycled at the end of their lifespan. This way, we know for sure that the solar panels we work with do not have a negative impact on the environment.

Here are some of the latest solar energy trends for 2024:

Advancements in Solar Technology and Installation Techniques

The latest advancements in solar technology are making solar energy more accessible and efficient for homeowners. Innovations such as bifacial solar panels, smart inverters and solar battery storage systems improve energy production and management, increasing overall system efficiency. Additionally, new installation techniques, such as Soly’s Enphase microinverters and module-level power electronics, optimise performance and simplify system design, making solar energy more viable and cost-effective.

Emerging Trends in Residential Solar Energy

Emerging trends in residential solar energy include Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) that seamlessly integrates solar panels into roofs, facades or windows. Solar paint technology is another emerging trend that involves developing coatings or paints that contain photovoltaic materials capable of generating electricity from sunlight. As renewable energy policies and incentives continue to evolve, homeowners should stay informed and work closely with solar installers like Soly to leverage the latest innovations and optimise their solar investments for the future.

Ready to harness the power of the sun? Contact Soly today to get started with your solar panel installation!