New Community Photovoltaic Panel Installation Plan

How do I choose a solar PV installer?

It should include an estimate for the annual solar PV generation and an estimate of the level of self-consumption of solar PV at the property. It is sensible to get at least 3 quotes before choosing your installer. Do not select the installer on cost alone as cheaper components may perform worse and have a shorter lifespan.

To whom is the photovoltaic (PV) guide applicable?

This guide is applicable to Clients planning or undertaking installation of Photovoltaic (PV) systems on ‘Large Scale’ buildings. These buildings are typically owned by organisations from the public or private sector, such as educational establishments, local government, a local community, or commercial organisations.

Can a solar PV system be used for free?

The residents in a home with a solar PV system are able to use electricity generated from the PV system for free. Between 2010 and March 2019, owners of solar PV systems were able to claim the feed-in tariff. This has now closed to new applicants. New installations are able to claim the Smart Export Guarantee.

Do I need a DNO before installing a solar PV system?

If an installer is planning to fit multiple domestic solar PV systems within 500m, it is necessary to make an enquiry to the DNO before installation. They will carry out an impact assessment before offering a grid connection.

How does a solar PV system affect the local electricity network?

Here owners of the PV system can receive payments for electricity exported to the grid. Installation of a single domestic solar PV system has limited impact on the local electricity network. As a result, the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) allows installers to inform them within 28 days of the installation.

What guidance is there on the performance of PV systems?

The Good Practice Guide provides some guidance on the performance of PV systems in Section 4 of the updated PV Installers Guide. The PV Specialist should model the system using one of the software simulation programmes available, which have a ‘library’ of modules and inverters and can select the sunlight conditions most representative of the site.