If you wish to avoid the need for planning permission, the panels must:Not be installed above the highest point of the property (not including chimneys)Be fitted in a way that least affects the external appearance of the property and the surrounding areaNot protrude more than 200mm from the surface of your roof.
Can I install solar panels if I don't meet building regulations?
Your local authority can also apply for a Confiscation Order to take away any money you've earned with your system – so there's absolutely no benefit to installing solar panels that don't meet building regulations. It's crucial that your solar installation follows all building regulations.
How do I connect my solar panel system to the electrical grid?
To connect your solar panel system to the electrical grid and benefit from the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you will need to speak with your local District Network Operator (DNO). If your solar panel installation involves work on a shared or party wall, you may need to comply with the Party Wall Act.
Can solar panels be added to a new build?
For new builds and self-builds, you'll likely be looking at solar photovoltaic panels and/or solar hot water (solar thermal) systems. Instead of looking at options to traditional heating systems, solar panel installations can be added to new builds to improve the EPC and overall energy efficiency.
Should you use solar panels when building a new home?
Today, when building a new home, it is required that you include energy saving measures and offsets such as cheap new build solar panels. These include solar panels or solar thermal systems. Solar panels do not need to detract from the attractiveness of your new build.
Do you need planning permission to install solar panels on your roof?
An increasing number of people are investing in solar energy. More and more homes are having solar panels, or solar tiles, installed on their roofs. Of course, with such installations, the topic of planning permission and building regulations often comes to the surface.
Do I need an electrical engineer to install a solar panel?
Once your solar panel system has been fitted, it will need to be connected to your controller, battery and the grid. For this, you'll want to use a qualified electrical engineer who has experience with Part (P) building regulations in the UK. A qualified electrical engineer would hold one or more of the following qualifications: