Site Survey and Selection:

The starting point is to locate a viable location and get an idea of the work and costs involved. The checklist below outlines what will be needed for an accurate assesment and highlights areas that might justify further investigation:

• The optimum location of a PV array in relation to system performance (yields) Vs location constraints
• Solar panel mounting inc structural requirements in relation to the additional loads imposed on roofs and buildings by solar PV panel arrays
• Accurate roof measurements, roof condition assesments, power cable distances, integration of a new solar PV system with the existing electrical system
• Capacity and condition of existing power supply cables, electrical compatibility checks
• Local shading considerations in relation to chimneys, dormer windows, trees and other buildings which might affect the performance of a solar PV installation
• Identify any electrical, roof, ground or other works that will be required at the installation site before a PV system can be commissioned
• Identify any potential on-site hazards and risks related to a PV system and it's installation; this could include buried pipes and overhead cables, identify any site access restrictions
• Identify the DNO and any possible grid connection restrictions, identify the acceptance process and identify any electrical works required before grid connection
• Identify any planning permission considerations and identify the details of any applicable building regulations and the authority responsible

Connecting to the National Grid: Single phase solar PV systems under 3.68kWp in size (approx 12-20 panels) and three phase systems under 11kWp (40-60 solar panels) do not usually require advanced permission from the Distribution Network Operator (the power company which maintains the local mains power network) before connecting the solar PV system to the National Grid.

Systems bigger in size and multiple installations as may be the case with new builds will require permission from the DNO before systems can be connected. If prior approval is required, grid connection applications can take upwards of 65 days so the sooner the grid connection application is made in the planning & design process the better.

Deliveries to anywhere in the UK are quick, tracked and accurate, technical support (by phone and on site if needed) and design/product advice is available before, during and after installation. The recording and collating of serial numbers, factory and other test results, manuals any other information required for equipment warranties, add ons and extensions is included.

Trade, DIY and Retail Clients Welcome.

A whole house surge protector is installed to provide protection from transient overvoltages originating from the mains/grid. A whole house surge protector is installed directly inline and as close as possible to the incoming mains/grid supply meter, this allows for surge protection for all circuits and equipment including solar inverters, routers, stereos and other sensitive electrical equipment within the network. The addition of a 100Amp lockable isolator also allows for safe and convenient isolation of all electrical equipment within the network including consumer units, solar inverters, battery storage units and EV chargers from the mains/grid in one place.

Surge protectors are in compliance with the recently updated 18th edition amendment 2 of BS7671.

DC surge protection devices (SPDs) are installed between the solar panels and the solar inverter to protect both the solar inverter and the downstream electrical equipment from transient overvoltages of an atmospheric origin impacting the electrical system via the DC side of the system / the solar panels.

DC Surge protectors are in compliance with the recently updated 18th edition amendment 2 of BS7671.

Engineering Recommendation G98

Grid Connections for Micro-Generators including Solar PV Systems and Elecricity Storage Systems in the UK. Under 16Amps Per Phase, grid synchronised.

BSI - PAS 63100:2024 - Protection Against Fire of Battery Energy Storage Systems for use in Dwellings

This Publically Available Specification (PAS) from the British Standards Institution (BSI) was sponsored by The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. Although not yet a British Standard, this guidance was developed in response to an urgent demand for clarity as to good practice across the industry including product, service and process standards.

How to provide power to a house using a portable generator

In this article we show you how to power your home using a portable diesel, petrol or LPG generator. We look at changeover switches, the importance of earthing, generator loadings, how to isolate non essential loads. We ask where to locate the generator when it's in operation, how best to safely isolate the grid/mains power supply and switch to a generator supply.

Ground Faults, Isolation (ISO) Faults, RISO Low Faults and Insulation Resistance Faults with Solar PV Systems

After a number of years exposed to wind, rain, snow, ice and sometimes animals; solar panel systems can start to develop faults. The most common faults we find related to exposure are ground faults, isolation (ISO) faults, RISO low faults and insulation resistance faults. In this article we take a look at what these faults are, the possible causes and what steps are taken to identify and resolve them.