Q. Does it matter which electricity supplier I am with?
All energy suppliers are under a government directive whereby they must deliver a percentage of their energy from renewable sources with the aim of cutting carbon dioxide emissions.
Hence all the major utilities throughout the UK will buy domestically generated solar PV electricity (through an approved import/export meter) to fulfill this requirement. The list of energy suppliers that provide FITS are listed on the Ofgem website.
Q. How is the electricity metered?
Using a smart meter which is Ofgem approved. The smart meter will accurately record the amount of electricity your PV system is generating. The meter is located between the inverter and the point of connection to the supply.
Q. Do I need to carry out maintenance?
You will need to keep the panels fairly clean and make sure trees, etc do not grow to overshadow the PV installation.
Q. What is Micro Generation Technology?
Microgeneration technology - is the production of heat/electricity on a small scale via a low carbon method.
http://www.microgenerationcertification.org/
Q. How long will a system last?
The average lifetime of a PV module can be in excess of 20 years.
Do I need Planning Permission?
The majority of solar installations are exempt from planning in England & Scotland – depending on various criteria - size of the solar installation; listed building; conservation area. However, it is still worth checking with your local authority.
In Northern Ireland & Wales, planning permission is currently required. This may change soon but again, it is advisable to check with your local authority.
