Ordinary people install solar panels

Can I install solar panels myself?

You can install solar panels on your home yourself. You will need some electrical wiring experience, and we suggest that you also use a professional solar contractor or electrician to do the wiring and connection processes to ensure that you: Do not start an electrical fire that damages or destroys your home, solar array, and solar components.

Are DIY solar panels legal in the UK?

Yes. UK law is pretty relaxed about DIY solar panels, and in most cases you don’t even need planning permission to install a full-sized array of solar panels by yourself. But going DIY may mean you miss out on government schemes, product warranties and utility company support, because you won’t have the necessary paperwork or certification.

Do you need a professional to install solar panels?

Despite being intricate bits of kit that can generate electricity from the sun, solar panels are pretty straightforward for a professional to set up. Before an installer is able to crack on with the actual installation, a professional surveyor will need to go into your loft and check the integrity of both the roof and the rafters.

Why should you hire a professional solar panel installer?

When you hire qualified professionals, you’ll get a secure, efficient, certified solar energy system that should ensure your panels work as well as possible. This will benefit you financially, make it easier to sell your property, and increase the value of your home.

Are solar panels a good idea?

Installing solar panels is a great idea to increase your home's capacity for renewable energy, and possibly save money on your energy bills.

Where can I buy DIY solar panels?

Several companies specialise in selling DIY solar panel kits to the public. Plug-in Solar is particularly easy to follow, and offers a wide range of kits and step-by-step DIY guides, plus accessories such as solar panel mounting kits. Renology, Select Solar and Sunstore Solar are also well worth a browse.