Free solar panel discussion

Pincher

phsci wrote: »

First post, so hi everyone. When suppliers quote a given kWp output for a system, are they referring to the final output in AC after the inverter or simply the DC output from all the panels?

The kW"p" means peak. i.e. maximum output if you had lots of sun.

liquidity_2

phsci wrote: »

First post, so hi everyone. When suppliers quote a given kWp output for a system, are they referring to the final output in AC after the inverter or simply the DC output from all the panels?

They're referring to the peak theoretical output of the system in ideal conditions. Typically multiply that number by 0.8 and that's the number of kWh you would see generated over the course of a year in best case conditions (the south of England and 40 deg pitch south-facing roof with no shading from trees or buildings)

Solargain

Gizmosmum wrote: »

I believe Tesco are using experienced installers however, pv isn't as difficult to install as you may think and what's just as important is the care taken to install, like anything else I suppose.

I'm guessing the sheer bulk buying power of Tesco is making a difference to the price but they will also undoubtedly be screwing the installation teams.

Tesco (Enect Energy) use Mark Group, as do E.ON and Marks and Spencer. They may use other installers as well, of course, but my guess is that they only use Mark Group.

Mark Group have a great deal of experience in this field, and it's no coincidence that they've been chosen by the three companies mentioned.

We found them to be exceptionally knowledgeable, exceptionally helpful, and the installers were nice people to have around. The odd problem that they came across was dealt with professionally, without any fuss, and absolutely to our satisfaction. I know that sounds a bit like an advert, but it's just a reflection of the way we felt about the installation. It's neat, it was reasonably priced, and everything about the installation was done properly. The guys who did it were very keen that we should be happy with the way it was done, and they clearly took pride in their work. What more could you ask for?

20+ kWh yesterday - I love the sun even more now!

Pincher

BBC breakfast is doing an item this morning on solar panel and FIT.

I think they need to do some reference installations dotted across the country, and put them up on the Energy Savings Trust web site. There are detailed data for wind speeds (at different heights!) across the country, SEBDUK rating for a large number of boilers, so I don't see why they can't do a trusted reference database: unless this FIT scheme is run by a bunch paper pushing bureacrats who have no concern over whether householders and installers get it right or not.

All they have to do is tag on an energy monitor to the inverter that can record time and power level. The meter reader can down load by USB or something, but of course you really want to use some kind of smart meter mechanism.

After a one year monitoring cycle, it should be clear whether PV is a good idea for the UK or not. They'll probably suppress the results, because there is not enough sun, and the FIT scheme is just a hobby farm for the well off.

PK49

Gizmosmum wrote: »

I believe Tesco are using experienced installers however, pv isn't as difficult to install as you may think and what's just as important is the care taken to install, like anything else I suppose.

I'm guessing the sheer bulk buying power of Tesco is making a difference to the price but they will also undoubtedly be screwing the installation teams.

I think Tesco are also offering double brownie points if you buy through them - their pricing seems reasonable and, hopefully, their buying power will introduce a downward trend in prices.

One thing that intrigues me - how are the pv panel mounting brackets fixed to the roof/tiles withour risk of damage or leaks, and yet still be robust enough to avoid being ripped off buy high wind?

liquidity_2

PK49 wrote: »

One thing that intrigues me - how are the pv panel mounting brackets fixed to the roof/tiles withour risk of damage or leaks, and yet still be robust enough to avoid being ripped off buy high wind?

This what a number of companies seem to use: http://www.click-fit.nl/content.php?id=3

Gizmosmum_2

Solargain wrote: »

Tesco (Enect Energy) use Mark Group, as do E.ON and Marks and Spencer. They may use other installers as well, of course, but my guess is that they only use Mark Group.

Mark Group have a great deal of experience in this field, and it's no coincidence that they've been chosen by the three companies mentioned.

I like the Mark Group but would point out that they actually have very little experience in solar pv, which follows my point about quality of work rather than years of experience.

Gazza68

Anybody know of a similar scheme in Scotland?
(did a quick scan on this thread, but can't see anyone else asking....)
Thanks

Perry525

Gazza68 wrote: »

Anybody know of a similar scheme in Scotland?
(did a quick scan on this thread, but can't see anyone else asking....)
Thanks

someone else did ask and I gave them the likely output per year which I recollect was below 3000kwh.
If you like to give me the nearest town?
I would imagine that there will be little commercial interest, however you could fit a 5kw set and receive the lower rate.

Gazza68

Thanks Perry525,
It's Ayr, on West Coast.
Thanks

Perry525 wrote: »

someone else did ask and I gave them the likely output per year which I recollect was below 3000kwh.
If you like to give me the nearest town?
I would imagine that there will be little commercial interest, however you could fit a 5kw set and receive the lower rate.