Solar Panels Grant - pitfalls?

pineapple

As part of a Warm Homes Grant, I've been offered solar panels. I don't know enough about them to understand the implications. Are there downsides I should be aware of? Or should I bite their hands off as it's free!

Netexporter

Bite their hands off. My 4.25kW array, that I got on the ECO4 scheme, produced over 4300kWh of electricity in their first year, which saved/made me about £600 in export payments and import savings from self consumption. That was about 75% exported and 25% self consumed.

Are they offering batteries as well, or just the panels?

Screwdriva

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6653466/solar-panels-grant-pitfalls

I would recommend asking them which panels/ inverter/ battery they intend to install and if you have any way of maximizing the coverage of your roof. Do share if they are forthcoming with this information.

jackieblack

With some previous Gov home energy efficiency schemes, recipients have had issues with the installers as the tender inevitably goes to the cheapest, often cheapest for a reason…

I would advise asking the question and researching who they propose to use

pineapple

Thanks folks. At the moment I'm unclear whether the company that did the visits/recommendations would be doing the installation or whether they contract it out. Plus I am expected to sign a consent form but with no detail (I definitely need to ask the questions suggested and more). But the biggy is that this is an ancient cottage (though not listed or in a conservation area). The roof looks pretty ancient too. I've been here 10 years and it was someones wreck of a personal holiday cottage for 25 years before that. They never did any work on the house so the roof must be pretty old and near the end of its shelf life. I would need an independent opinion on the roof before proceeding.

Netexporter

If it is a conservation area you may not be able to have solar panels. I know there was talk of relaxing that regulation but I'm not sure what the state of play is now. I think an independent roof condition report would be a good idea, if panels are permitted.