Plug in solar

tfhnota

Don't know if it is law yet but roof fitted systems are only going to be permitted development if MCS approved, otherwise you have to get the council involved… annoying but I guess it does make sense as they don't want roofs unravelling and sending debris through the air when the next stage of global warming hits the UK

QrizB

Could anyone tell me what exactly would I need for 2 400W panels on concrete interlocking tiles roof?

If you're asking for what you'd need in addition to the panels, inverter and cables, here's a kit of parts for roof mounting two panels on the same aspect of a tile roof:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C7WJZDR6

Similar kits are available from the plugin solar panel companies; here's EcoFlow's version:

https://uk.ecoflow.com/products/bracket-pitched-roof

Newbie_John

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82065977#Comment_82065977

I was planning to put it on the garage (link detached) as I can easily reach it with a ladder. Didn't know about that rule tbh, but I guess garage doesn't fall under these rules? IlI'll wait for the full approval, just want to get my plan ready.

QrizB

^ IIRC iIt's still permitted development (for planning purposes) even if it's not MCS.

However under the current rules, if you don't use a contractor who's allowed to self-certify the structural calcs, you'd need Building Control if installed on a house. (I don't think that's ever applied to sheds and the like, but I don't know where a garage with a cement tile roof would fit.)

Whether that gets changed when the plug-in solar rules are finally published is anyone's guess.

Newbie_John

Lets wait and see, but I think my garage is the safest option..

From the sunny side - shed is too far - don't want cables, conservatory roof not strong enough, don't fancy it on walls or lying around, I also have a small pergola that should be the easiest to put it on, but in 2 years it should be fully covered by grapes - so can't have it there either.

Garage it is then, easy access, so easy to move away if ever needed.

Newbie_John

One step closer:

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/plug-in-solar

Updated yesterday 16/07

QrizB

There's a few interesting details in there. Here's one:

Having considered the consultation responses alongside the findings of the electrical safety study, the government has decided that the IPS should allow one plug-in solar device per individual power circuit protected by a circuit breaker at the consumer unit, subject to a corresponding amendment to G98. Until such an amendment is made, the current requirement in G98 limiting installations to one device per household will continue to apply.

So initially we'll be allowed one plugin system per household, but eventually should be allowed multiple systems, one per circuit!

Newbie_John

Eventually.. 2030 :)

I wonder if that's got something to do with people having existing solar system, if only one inverter per household - then they would not qualify, with these rules I understand as one DIY inverter per household meaning proper MCS solar insatltallation won't count and someone could add plug in as well.

tfhnota

It still has to go thru parliament or statutory instrument and they are soon off to the summer beaches so probably end up coinciding with the sun doing a runner

Newbie_John

Sure, but at least we have now clearer picture of what's allowed and what won't be anytime soon.

You can buy it now, you can install it now.. the only thing you can't is to plug it to the socket.