Whatever the question, we'll have the answer

“Do I need and Energy Performace Certificate if my installation takes place from the 1st of April 2012?”

Yes, more commonly known as an EPC, this certificate details the Energy rating of your property in similar terms to those of electrical appliances.  Installing a Solar PV system will contribute to increasing the energy rating of your property. 

“What if my property has a really low energy rating?”

We can assess your property before the installation and give you guidance as to whether a solar pv installation will be enough to bring your property up to the required level to claim the highest rate of Feed in Tariff.  We can give recommendations for improvements to your energy efficiency rating to enable you to reach the level required.

“What EPC level does my property need to have in order to claim the highest rate of Feed in Tariffs?”

Level D or above. The lowest end of the scale is G and the highest is A. Approximately 70% of UK homes are Band D or above. The EPC certificate should be sent in with your Feed in Tariff application.

“If I send my EPC certificate with my Feed in Tariff application form and the EPC gives my property a rating of lower than D can I still claim Feed in Tariffs?”

Yes, but you must supply your Feed in Tariff supplier with a band D EPC within 12 months, otherwise you will get a much lower rate for each unit of electricity you generate.

“Can Apollo Solar assess by property and issue an EPC?”

We certainly can. Our qualified surveyors are able to assess and issue an EPC certificate following your installation so that your Feed in Tariff application will be complete.

"Do solar panels work when it’s cloudy and dull like the weather in England?"

Yes. The solar panels absorb light to generate energy. So while they work best on long summer days when there is the most light, they still generate energy in winter.

"Can I claim the feed-in tariff if a non-certified company performs the installation?"

To enter into the Government's backed feed-in tariff scheme, your panels and the company that installs them, must be accredited and qualified under the Micro-generation Scheme (MCS).

"Is Apollo Solar™ an accredited installer?"

Apollo Solar™ are fully accredited under the Energy Saving Trust's MCS for Solar PV installations and are members of REAL (The Renewable Energy Assurance Scheme).

From initial consultation through to project completion you will be in the hands of skilled and qualified professionals.

"What is the payback time on the system?"

No one can be exact, but based on average electricity costs, and assuming modest inflation of energy prices, you can reasonably expect the system to completely pay for itself in about 8 to 10 years.

If the predicted trend for energy prices to soar comes true, this could be significantly reduced – and this is not taking into account the added value that a solar electricity generating system will undoubtedly add to the value of your property.

"What guarantees do I have?"

For guaranteed rewards, there are few investments that can compare with pv solar panels.

  • All payments are index linked, tax free and guaranteed for 25 years
  • All our solar panels come with a 25 year performance guarantee
  • All work carried out by Apollo is fully guaranteed for 5 years

"How long are solar panels guaranteed for?"

The performance of the solar panel systems we install is guaranteed for 25 years, but you could reasonably expect them to go on generating electricity, silently and efficiently for up to 40 years.

"How do I know how much electricity I'm saving?"

As part of your Apollo Solar installation you can have a smart meter, which accurately records, stores and displays all the information you could ever need to know.

Don't worry; it's very easy to operate and to understand. We'll also show you how to use it when the system is fitted.

"What about planning permission?"

For most homes in England and Wales, solar panels are considered to be a ‘permitted development’ – so it's not a problem.

But if you do live in a listed building or in a conservation area, some restrictions may apply. Further information is available from the Government's Planning Portal »

"Is there much to do before the installation takes place?"

In most cases you needn't do anything. One of our surveyors will inspect your property, then you will be given a bespoke recommendation for the best system for you home, and the expected returns on your investment.

In some cases, such as overhanging trees and foliage, we may recommend additional work to get the most out of your system.

"How long does it take to install?"

We usually only take 1 day to fully install a system, from start to finish. Our highly experienced and qualified team work quickly and quietly so there is little disruption to your daily routine.

"Do I need a south facing roof to benefit from solar power?"

In the ideal world, you would have a south facing roof with an angle of 30° to get the maximum benefit.

However, these solar panel systems are so efficient that even in non-ideal environments, you are only talking about a 5-20% reduction on optimal output. If you have any doubts, just call for a free survey and we will be able to give you an accurate evaluation and quotation.

"How much maintenance is required?"

You really have to do nothing at all. These systems are self-contained, have no moving parts and don't require regular servicing.

Obviously, if there is a build up of dirt such as bird droppings, moss / lichen or environmental pollution, they will require cleaning. Other than that, it's just a periodic inspection as you would have for any electrical system in your home.

"Do Solar PV systems make any noise?"

Solar pv systems are almost silent in operation.

"What about insuring my solar panel system?"

It's always wise to have insurance to cover your investment against accidents. Please check with your insurance provider to make sure you are covered.

"Is my roof strong enough to support a roof mounted system?"

Most roofs are perfectly capable of holding a solar panel array. If there are any problems with your roof, our team will advise you when they carry out the survey.

"Can I store the electricity generated by my system?"

No, the electricity generated is either used during the day in the house, or it is automatically exported back to your electricity provider.

"What happens if I sell my house?"

Pv solar panels are an investment which will start paying you back immediately with reduced electricity bills and quarterly payments from your electricity supplier.

However, if you move home before you are in clear profit, usually about 8 - 10 years, you still haven't lost out, because they add value to your property's price.

Think about it. If you had the choice of two identical homes, one of which could generate its own electricity with lower fuel bills and a guaranteed annual income – which would you prefer?

Call 0800 678 5040 - we guarantee no sales personnel, no overseas call centres, just free, friendly, professional advice.