- A south facing (or south west or south east facing) – while not essential, a roof facing these directions will provide more electricity than those facing other directions. A measurement of your roof facing angle will be taken during survey and used to calculate more accurately how much energy your system will generate.
- A roof facing East or West is still very suitable for solar PV and we often recommend installing some panels on both of these roof faces, as it provides energy in the morning and afternoon.
- The roof should be in good repair and of sound construction. Any slight maintenance issues e.g. broken tiles can be fixed as part of the installation.
- Should be unshaded by large trees or buildings for most of the day, but we can calculate accurately what effect any shading features are likely to cause.
- At an angle of 10-50 degrees from horizontal – while not essential, a roof with these pitch angles will provide more electricity than those with flat or steeper pitches. A measurement of your roof pitch angle will be taken during survey and used to calculate more accurately how much energy your system will generate.
Planning Permission
In England, the installation of solar photovoltaic panels is considered ‘general permitted development’ and planning permission is not generally required. The only exceptions are generally if your property is a listed building or is situated within a conservation area. Even in these circumstances, installations are normally allowed provided certain guidelines are followed.
We will advise you during the survey whether or not we consider you require planning permission and may check on your behalf beforehand. However, it is advisable for your own peace of mind and assurance to ask your local planning office if permission is required or not. Solar Voltaics cannot be held responsible for installations made without the appropriate planning permission.
You can check if your property is in a conservation area or is a listed building – your local authority will be able to provide further information.
If you do require planning permission this must be obtained before proceeding with the installation.
