With a growing focus on reducing carbon emissions and cutting energy costs, more homeowners are looking to invest in solar power. The solar industry is booming, and while this is great news for trusted and established installers like us, it also means an overwhelming number of choices for customers.
At Solarfix, we understand that investing in solar power can be confusing, with conflicting advice and technical jargon making the process seem daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this solar buying guide to help you navigate your options and make an informed decision.
1. Choose an MCS-Accredited Installer
The base line standard accreditation for solar is MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme). This is the only recognised industry watchdog for solar installers in the UK. Accredited installers undergo annual audits covering installation standards, warranties, and after-sales care. They also maintain a database of approved panels and ensure your system meets all legal and safety requirements.
To check if an installer is MCS accredited, visit MCS Certified. If an installer isn’t MCS-approved, walk away. You wouldn’t hire a non-accredited gas engineer to fit your boiler—why risk it with your solar system?
At Solarfix, we go beyond industry standards, proudly achieving ISO 45001, 14001, and 9001 certifications. These globally recognized accreditations reflect our commitment to excellence in health and safety, environmental management, and quality assurance. We continuously strive to be the best, ensuring our customers receive top-tier service, reliable installations, and the highest quality products.
2. Check for an Insurance-Backed Warranty
A reputable installer should offer an insurance-backed warranty scheme, which protects your investment in two ways:
If the installer ceases trading before your installation, the policy refunds your deposit.
If an issue arises during the warranty period and the installer is no longer in business, an accredited installer will carry out repairs free of charge.
At Solarfix, we use IWA—one of the most recognised and rigorous providers of insurance-backed warranties. They thoroughly vet our financial status, supplier payments, and customer documents. Learn more at IWA.
3. Ask for Local References
A trustworthy installer should have a portfolio of completed projects in your area. Ask for references and speak to previous customers to get honest feedback on their experience. We’ve installed over 2,000 systems, and you can find our customer reviews here.
Many of our customers come from referrals, which is a testament to the quality of our work and customer satisfaction. We believe that word-of-mouth recommendations are one of the strongest indicators of a company’s reliability and expertise. Our customers trust us enough to recommend us to friends and family, and that speaks volumes about the service we provide.
4. Don’t Get Hung Up on Panel Brands
Many salespeople will push a particular panel brand, but in reality, there’s little difference in real-world performance between Tier 1 manufacturers. Chinese manufacturers dominate the market, producing some of the highest-quality panels globally. JA Solar is a great choice, offering an excellent balance of price, performance, and UK support.
5. Plan for Battery Storage
Home storage batteries offer a smart and efficient solution for households that are unoccupied during daylight hours—precisely when solar panels are generating the most solar power. Without a battery, surplus solar energy is often exported to the grid, only for homeowners to buy back electricity at higher rates in the evening when energy demand peaks.
By integrating home storage batteries, you can store excess solar power generated during the day and use it in the evening or overnight, reducing reliance on the grid and maximising the benefits of your solar investment. This not only lowers electricity bills but also ensures you’re making the most of your renewable energy.
While solar power in Northern Ireland is less abundant in winter due to shorter daylight hours, you can still optimise your energy use. Charging your battery overnight on a cheaper night tariff allows you to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, ensuring greater savings even during months of reduced solar generation.
It’s important to invest in quality when choosing a home battery system—buy cheap, buy twice is especially true in the solar industry. A home battery is a significant investment, and you want a reliable system that will stand the test of time. At Solarfix, we only supply top-tier battery solutions, including the Duracell home battery and the SolarEdge Energy Bank.
We have strong partnerships with both manufacturers, and as a Platinum Installer for Duracell Energy and a Preferred Installer for SolarEdge, we can offer priority support and hassle-free resolutions should any issues arise. This ensures you get not only a high-quality product but also the best aftercare and long-term reliability.
6. Install an EV Charger with Your Solar Panels
If you own or plan to own an electric vehicle, installing an EV charger alongside your solar system can save on labour costs. The My Energi Zappi car charger is an excellent choice, allowing you to charge your EV directly from solar power.
The My Energi Zappi car charger offers three flexible charging modes, allowing you to power your EV using grid electricity, solar energy, or a combination of both. Whether you want to maximise solar self-consumption, adapt to changing weather conditions, or ensure a full charge for longer journeys, Zappi gives you the freedom to choose.
And when the darker months set in, you can charge your vehicle overnight using a cheaper off-peak tariff, further reducing your energy costs. Designed and manufactured in the UK by MyEnergi, the My Energi Zappi car charger is built to last, offering exceptional reliability and performance for years to come (If you have multiple MyEnergi devices (such as the MyEnergi Eddi immersion heater controller, you can control them all from one app.).
7. Don’t Rush – Make an Informed Decision
Going solar is a long-term investment, and the process should be enjoyable, not stressful. You should never feel pressured into making a decision on the spot. A reputable solar company will give you time to think through your options and ensure you’re comfortable before proceeding.
Why Choose Solarfix?
With so many installers popping up, it’s crucial to choose a company with proven expertise and credibility. Here’s what sets Solarfix apart:
✅ Experienced Team – We have a large, highly skilled team with years of hands-on experience.
✅ Best-in-Class Equipment – We use top-quality solar panels, inverters, and batteries from the most trusted manufacturers.
✅ MCS & ISO Certifications – We meet the highest industry standards for safety, quality, and performance.
✅ Insurance-Backed Warranties – Your investment is protected long-term.
✅ Honest Advice – We provide peace of mind that you’re getting real value for money, without cutting corners.
At Solarfix, our core values are integrity, positivity, professionalism, and quality. We guide you through the process with honesty and transparency, ensuring you get the best possible system for your home.
Final Thoughts
Investing in solar power Northern Ireland is a fantastic way to cut energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint. By following this guide and choosing a trusted, accredited installer, you can enjoy reliable, high-performance solar energy for years to come.
Contact Solarfix today and let’s make your switch to solar simple, stress-free, and worthwhile! Click here to complete our contact form or contact our office on 0800 246 5198 for a free consultation today!