At Solarfix, we specialise in the installation of solar panels for homes, businesses, and farms. Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in the number of new build homes opting for solar power. This is partly due to evolving building regulations, which encourage energy-efficient solutions, and partly because solar panels offer numerous long-term benefits, including increased property value and reduced energy bills.
Why Are New Builds Turning to Solar?
Meeting Building Regulations
In recent years, building regulations have increasingly required new homes to meet specific energy efficiency standards. Installing solar panels is one of the ways to ensure a new home complies with these regulations. By generating renewable energy from sunlight, homeowners reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources and lower their carbon footprint.
Increased Property Value and Mortgage Incentives
There's also compelling evidence that solar panels increase the value of homes. Homebuyers today are more eco-conscious, and properties with energy-efficient solutions like solar power are highly desirable. Mortgage providers have recognised this and may offer incentives such as cashback schemes or better interest rates to homes that install solar systems. This is because solar panels not only reduce carbon emissions but also make properties more cost-effective to run in the long term.
The Process of Installing Solar on New Builds
When it comes to installing solar panels on a new build home, the process is slightly different compared to an existing home. Ideally, the process begins well before construction reaches the roofing stage.
Step 1: Initial Contact and Consultation
Once planning permission has been granted and foundations are laid, the customer should contact us at Solarfix. At this point, we’ll ask a series of questions to help us size the system based on the customer’s energy needs. We may also recommend the inclusion of home storage batteries like the Duracell home battery to further optimise the system's efficiency.
Once we have a clear understanding of the customer's energy goals, we’ll assess the site layout and elevations to determine where the PV panels (photovoltaic panels) and other equipment like the inverter will be placed. In many cases, the system may also include a My Energi Zappi car charger, an immersion heater controller, or off-grid solar electricity solutions, depending on the customer's preferences.
Step 2: Providing a Quote
With all the information gathered, we’ll prepare a detailed quote and present it to the customer. This will include the cost of installing the solar panels, and any additional components like home storage batteries or immersion heater controllers.
At this stage, we encourage customers to ask any questions they may have regarding the system's performance, potential savings, or the installation process. We aim to provide a clear understanding of how solar can reduce energy costs and how customers can benefit from using Solarfix.
Step 3: Roof Preparation and Installation
Once the customer agrees to the quote and pays the deposit, the next step is scheduling the installation. When the roof reaches the felt and lath stage, we will arrange a date to install roof hooks or trays. The builders will then slate or tile around these fittings to ensure everything is securely in place.
After the roof preparation is complete, we will return to install the solar panels. We ensure every installation is of the highest quality.
Step 4: Wiring and Final Connection
Once the customer's home has a fixed electrical connection, we will return to complete the wiring. This is when the magic happens, as the system is fully connected to the grid (if not an off-grid solar electricity system) and the home starts generating power.
At this stage, the customer will pay the remaining balance, and the system will be set up to begin exporting any excess electricity back to the grid. New build homeowners often opt for solar power storage batteries to store the energy they don’t use immediately, which can be a great way to maximise savings.
Step 5: Demonstration and Final Questions
Once the customer moves into their new home, we’ll return to offer a demonstration of the system. We walk the homeowner through how the system works, how to monitor energy production, safety aspects and answer any remaining questions. This step is vital to ensure the customer feels confident in their new solar installation.
The Benefits of Solar Panels for New Builds
Energy Savings: Solar panels can dramatically reduce your energy bills. By generating your electricity from a renewable source, you reduce your reliance on the grid. Any excess electricity generated is either stored in home storage batteries or sold back to the grid, earning you money in the process.
Increased Property Value: Homes with solar panels are generally more valuable. Buyers are attracted to the idea of lower energy bills and the sustainability aspect of the property.
Eco-Friendly: Installing solar panels helps reduce your carbon footprint and makes a positive contribution to environmental sustainability. You are also helping the UK and Northern Ireland meet their renewable energy targets.
Potential for Incentives: Some mortgage providers offer better rates or cashback schemes for homes with energy-saving systems like solar panels. This can make the investment even more worthwhile in the long run.
Thinking of Installing Solar on Your New Build?
If you’re currently in the process of building a new home and are considering solar, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Solarfix. Whether you’re interested in installing PV panels, a My Energi Zappi car charger, or a Duracell home battery, we can design a system tailored to your needs.
We have extensive experience working with new builds and understand the unique challenges they present. From system sizing to installation and final handover, we handle every step of the process.
Call us today on 0800 246 5198, or fill out our contact form here to see how we can help make your new home as energy-efficient as possible.