What size solar system do I need?

The appropriate solar array is determined first by the property: its usable roof area, orientation, shading, structural suitability and the capacity permitted by the local electricity network. Because solar panels are now a relatively cost-effective part of the installation, it often makes sense to use the suitable roof space effectively rather than design only around your current annual consumption.

How you use energy remains important, but it has a greater influence on the inverter, the battery and the energy-management strategy than on the number of panels. We look at how much electricity you use, when you use it, the likely daytime solar surplus, and whether you expect to add an electric vehicle, a heat pump or another significant load.

Battery capacity has to be balanced carefully. A battery that is too small may fill quickly and run flat early in the evening. A battery that is too large may not cycle properly, or may not generate enough additional benefit to justify its cost. We therefore model the expected solar generation against your daytime, evening and overnight consumption.

Export is not necessarily wasted. Surplus electricity can be sold through an export tariff, while a battery can retain part of that generation for use later. The best design considers the value of self-consumption, battery charging, grid import and export together.

During the free assessment we establish how much solar the property can sensibly accommodate, and recommend a battery capacity based on your actual and expected future usage. We then explain the generation, consumption, storage and export assumptions clearly, so you can see how the design was arrived at rather than taking it on trust.

Book a free solar assessment or call us on 0330 133 2323.