This section provides the answers to many common questions. Please select the section you are interested in below, or from the general topics above .

You can download a printer-friendly version here (though think of the environment before printing it all!).

If you cannot find the answers you are looking for please contact us directly and we will be happy to help.

Grid Connection FAQ

Do I require a connection to the National Grid?

A connection to the national grid is not necessarily required for solar PV and wind
turbine systems, though it is becoming the most popular style of system. If no
grid connection is available, the renewable generation system can be connected
to a remote battery system in order to store the generated electricity – an “off grid system”

Most installations are “grid connected”, which allows users to take advantage of time of used based tariffs and selling surplus energy back to their supplier. This does required permission in advance for almost all systems. We will keep you right, as there are many iterations and processes to follow!

Can I make money from my generated electricity?

Many utility companies are now willing to pay you for any excess electricity that
you export back to the National Grid from a renewable microgenerator. The price
paid for this electricity is currently set at around 15p/kWh. This varies by supplier, and many tariffs also vary by time of day. We will make sure that you are able to best capitalise on this with a suitable battery system to integrate with a range of tariffs.

Will I be able to generate my own electricity during a power cut?

With a standard grid connected system – No. When your renewable energy generation system is connected to the National
Grid, it constantly monitors the electricity in the grid for fluctuations and
interruptions. If a power cut occurs, your system will automatically shut down and
you will not be able to continue generating even if the wind is blowing and the sun
is shining.

This is done so that if the National Grid requires any maintenance work
to be performed, your system will not be supplying power to the line, potentially
causing danger to any engineers working on it. It also ensures that the output
from your system is still compatible with grid electricity when the supply is re-
established.

However! Tesla Powerwall with Gateway version 2 is capable of operating in “backup mode”, keeping you powered during a power cut whilst ensuring that you’re safely isolated from the grid for the duration. Speak to us if you’re interested in this functionality.

Planning Permission FAQ

Do I need planning permission?

It is always best to speak to your local authority’s planning department. It is likely
that they will ask for more information about your development.

Planning permission is often required for wind turbines, but most local authorities
are keen to support the installation of micro-renewables. Obtaining planning
permission is usually straightforward.

Solar PV systems on pitched roofs are usually allowed under “Permitted
Development” unless you are in a conservation area or have a listed building. Flat
roof and Ground Mounted systems are worth checking with your council to check
whether they are included under the permitted development scheme.

Funding FAQ

Do I pay VAT?

The standard rate of VAT is 20%. For a household, VAT is charged at 0% for both solar and battery installations (or both).