Finding an Installer for Your PV System

A PV system for your home is a long term investment. Like any large scale home renovation, you need to ensure that you find a contractor who will do the work you need for the price you can afford.

The very first thing you need to do before anything else is to talk to the people at Energy Saving Trust. The Energy Saving Trust is a non-profit group established by the UK government to deal with climate change issues. One of the things that Energy Saving Trust does is maintain a list of all PV system installers for your area that are certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme for solar panel installations. It is vitally important that you use a certified installer so that you can qualify for the BERR low carbon buildings programme grant.

The next step is to write out all the information you want to initially provide to installers for quotes. This includes your roof size, orientation, and slope, your annual energy usage, whether you are looking for an on or off-grid system, and the type of solar panel you want to use. The more information you can provide the installers, the faster they will be able to return with a quote.

With a list of certified installers and your requirements in hand, start calling around. Try to contact as many installers as possible. Any decent installer should also be willing to do a free survey of your home to provide you with a more accurate quote. Like any other home renovation project, you need to do your homework and shop around for a PV system installer.

Once you have decided on an installer, make sure you listen to their advice; that is why you hired them after all. They will be able to give you advice on the most appropriate equipment for your PV installation as well as helping you with local council permits and understanding the regulations for your area. Your installer should also help you with the grant application to BERR.

Part of your contract with your installer should also cover full commissioning of your PV system. This includes an analysis on actual power generation versus expected and confirmation of proper tie-in to the mains grid. Finally, review the warranty policies on both your solar panel system and on the installation work. Discuss what maintenance issues may arise that you may need the installer's help with servicing.

Now comes the really fun part; deciding on the best equipment for your PV system.

Next: The Right Equipment for Your PV System