The Generation Tariff

The solar PV generation tariff guarantees a fixed payment (usually paid quarterly) based on the size of solar PV system that is installed and the amount of power (measured in kWh) that the solar PV system generates, the power is measued using an OFGEM approved solar generation meter which is provided by the installer. Payments are guaranteed for 20/25 years and payment rates are index linked to inflation (using the Retail Price Index).

Feed in tariff rates are fixed based on the installation date for the full 20/25 years (+ RPI increases).

The Solar PV Export Tariff

The solar PV export tariff applies to the proportion of clean energy that is exported (i.e. sold via the national grid mains connection for others to use) and is set at a buy price per kWh The export rate is guaranteed for 20/25 years and also index linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI).

As many residential properties are not yet installed with 'smart meters' which are able to measure the amount of solar power that is exported, export tariff payments in these situations are based on the assumption that 50% of a solar PV systems power generation will be exported. Solar PV systems of over 30kWp in size are automatically provided with a 'smart' meter that measures the real amount of power that is exported.

Key Points:

• The Generation Tariff is based on the amount of power (measured in kWh) a system generates, this power does not need to be sold, you can use the free electricity you generate and export any excesses independently of the FIT.
• The power you export/sell via the grid can be sold for additional profit.
• The Feed in Tariff is applicable to all types of solar PV system but both the equipment and the installer must have been certified to UK Microgenertion Certification Scheme (MCS) standards.
• The property where the solar PV system was to be installed must have met an energy efficiency rating of grade 'D' or above to qualify for the highest rate. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) would have been supplied with the FIT application.
• FIT payments are index linked to inflation, this means that as prices rise than so will the FIT payment.
• FIT payments are non-taxable for homeowners.
• FIT payments and rates are guaranteed for 20/25 years.
• Different rates are payable for different size systems (based on max power output in kWp).
• The original installer must have registered your system on the MCS database and provide you with an MCS number.
• FIT registration and FIT payments are handled by FIT Licensees (the participating power companies).

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.