FAQ

Read some of our frequently asked questions

Here are the most common questions clients ask about:

What is Solar PV?

PV stands for Photo (light) Voltaic (Electric). Solar PV panels convert light into electricity. They continue to produce electricity on overcast days. It’s just that their output will be higher on brighter days.

What does an inverter do?

Inverters change the DC current from the panels to AC current needed for your home and the grid. Eco Partners recommend using Enphase micro inverters. This is an inverter on the back of each panel. See upgrades.

How do I know you’re selling me the right system?

We base our quotations on information from you.

Our remote online quotation service means we don’t push customers into anything. We provide information and let you choose, in your own time.

How much electric will my PV panels generate?

Depending on where in the country, a 4kWp system on an unshaded, south facing roof can generate over 4000 units (kWh) per year. If your roof is East or West facing you’re still likely to generate 3400 units (kWh) per year. The average household in the UK uses around 3200 units per year. Depending on when and how you use your electric depends on how much impact your PV system will have on your bills. Changing electric usage habits will also determine savings.

How much will I earn?

This is dependent on generation and savings. Our online quotation will be bespoke and tailored for your property.

I’ve heard that I’ll need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Is this true?

Yes. Properties are required to have an EPC grade D or above to get the full Feed In Tariff. A lot of properties have an existing EPC and this can be used, however if an EPC is required Eco Partners will arrange this at no extra cost.

What size system can I fit on my roof?

We will  ascertain the size the roof from Google Earth for quotation purposes and may ask you for photos and basic measurements. These will be double checked before confirmation of order.

Do I need to inform Building Control?

No, leave that to us. Eco Partners are accredited to notify all their work to Building Control.

How are PV solar panels attached to the roof?

On domestic installations brackets are used fix to the rafters of your roof which ensures the fabric is free from loadings. Roof tiles are then replaced and sealed.

What happens in a power cut?

For safety your system will need to shut down.

How long does a PV Solar Panel installation take?

A typical installation is completed in 1 day. However there are circumstances when they can take up to 2 days.

What is FIT?

FIT (Feed In Tariff) is the government-backed scheme which means your electric supplier will pay you for every unit that your system generates, whether you use it or if it goes back in to the grid. More info on FITs are available on the Energy Saving Trust website.

How long do panels last?

Solar PV panels gradually degrade over time. Typically they lose around 15% of their power over 25 years. Some higher quality panels only degrade around 2.5% over the same period

What does an inverter do?

Inverters change the DC current from the panels to AC current needed for your home and the grid. Eco Partners recommend using Enphase micro inverters. This is an inverter on the back of each panel. See upgrades.

Why should I choose Eco Partners as my system maintainer?

Eco Partners monitor over 4300 Enphase systems in the UK. We are the only company approved by Enphase and the RECC to do so and have been through a due diligence process for the monitoring of Enphase Solar systems.

Scroll to Top