
Based on checking the website Glowgreensolar.co.uk, it appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive platform for solar panel and battery storage solutions in the UK. The site provides a wealth of information, customer testimonials, and clear explanations of their services, which is a good sign for transparency and trustworthiness.
Overall Review Summary:
- Legitimacy: Appears legitimate with detailed information, customer reviews, and accreditation claims (MCS, NICEIC, HIES).
- Transparency: High level of transparency with clear explanations of services, process, and FAQs.
- Customer Trust Signals: Boasts “Excellent” rating on TrustPilot from 625 reviews, numerous positive testimonials, and claims of 50,000+ satisfied customers.
- Warranty: Offers up to a 30-year warranty on panels and 10-year warranty on batteries, along with an insurance-backed warranty scheme.
- Pricing: Emphasises “lowest possible prices” and a “Unique Price Guarantee” to beat competitor quotes.
- Installation Time: Claims fast installation within 2-4 weeks, or as little as 10 days.
- Ethical Considerations: Promotes renewable energy, which aligns with principles of environmental stewardship and responsible resource management.
Glowgreensolar.co.uk presents itself as a robust option for UK homeowners looking into solar energy. The website is well-structured, providing detailed insights into their services, from initial quotation to post-installation support. They highlight key selling points like competitive pricing, extensive warranties, and accredited installations, all of which contribute to a positive impression of reliability. The inclusion of numerous customer testimonials directly on the homepage, linking back to TrustPilot, further bolsters their credibility. For anyone considering a significant investment like solar panels, the level of detail and commitment to customer service displayed on the website suggests a company that understands the concerns of homeowners and aims to address them proactively.
Best Alternatives List for Ethical Home Energy Solutions:
For those seeking reliable and ethically sound home energy solutions in the UK, beyond just solar, here are some excellent alternatives:
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- Key Features: Offers a wide range of home energy services, including smart thermostats, boiler care, and energy efficiency advice. They are a major utility provider, offering comprehensive support and installation.
- Average Price: Varies significantly based on service, but smart thermostats typically range from £150-£250, plus installation.
- Pros: Established and reputable company, broad service offering, professional installation, extensive customer support.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than smaller, specialised providers; customer service experience can vary depending on the issue.
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- Key Features: Smart thermostat system that allows remote control of heating and hot water via an app. Integrates with other Hive smart home devices like smart plugs and motion sensors for a connected home.
- Average Price: Hive Active Heating kits typically cost around £179-£249, often with installation included.
- Pros: User-friendly app interface, potential for significant energy savings by optimising heating, reliable performance, good integration with other smart home ecosystems.
- Cons: Requires professional installation, some advanced features may require additional Hive products, initial setup cost can be a barrier for some.
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- Key Features: Location-based heating control, open window detection, and weather adaptation. Offers multi-room control with additional smart radiator thermostats.
- Average Price: Tado Starter Kits range from £180-£220, with individual radiator thermostats costing around £60-£80.
- Pros: Advanced energy-saving features, sleek design, compatibility with most heating systems, detailed energy usage reports.
- Cons: Higher initial investment for multi-room setups, app can be complex for first-time smart home users, reliance on smartphone location for some features.
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- Key Features: Learns your preferred temperatures and programs itself. Auto-Away feature saves energy when you’re out, and it can be controlled remotely.
- Average Price: Around £220-£260, plus installation.
- Pros: Intuitive learning algorithm, elegant design, strong integration with Google Home ecosystem, proven energy savings.
- Cons: Premium price point, some users may prefer manual control over learning features, older heating systems might require additional wiring.
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- Key Features: Schedule heating based on your routine, remote control, and energy reports. Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa.
- Average Price: Approximately £150-£190.
- Pros: Easy installation, stylish design by Philippe Starck, good smart home integration, detailed energy history.
- Cons: Some reports of less robust app performance compared to competitors, limited advanced features without additional Netatmo products.
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Evergreen Energy (Broad Category)
- Key Features: Focuses on renewable energy installations including heat pumps, solar thermal, and biomass boilers. Provides tailored solutions for reducing carbon footprint and energy bills.
- Average Price: Highly variable, as these are custom installations. Heat pumps can range from £8,000-£18,000.
- Pros: Specialises in advanced renewable technologies, expert consultation, comprehensive project management from design to installation.
- Cons: High upfront costs, installations can be disruptive, requires careful planning and assessment of property suitability.
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OVO Energy Smart Home Solutions
- Key Features: As an energy supplier, OVO offers smart home devices like smart chargers for electric vehicles, and sometimes smart thermostats, integrated with their energy plans to help manage consumption.
- Average Price: Varies by product, but often offered as part of energy bundles or promotions.
- Pros: Seamless integration with energy supplier, access to smart tariffs, focus on greener energy sources.
- Cons: Product range might be more limited than dedicated smart home companies, primarily aimed at their existing energy customers.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
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Glowgreensolar.co.uk Review & First Look
When you first land on Glowgreensolar.co.uk, you’re immediately greeted with a promise: “Run your home with free solar energy.” This bold claim sets the tone for a website that aims to convince visitors of the undeniable benefits of switching to solar power. The user interface is clean, professional, and intuitive, designed to guide potential customers through the core offerings without unnecessary clutter. It’s clear that the site prioritises converting visitors into leads, with prominent “View Prices” buttons strategically placed throughout the homepage.
Initial Impressions and User Experience
The website’s design is modern and responsive, ensuring a smooth experience whether you’re browsing on a desktop, tablet, or mobile phone. Navigation is straightforward, with a clear menu that highlights key sections such as services, customer reviews, and FAQs. This ease of use is critical for a service-based business, as it allows potential customers to quickly find the information they need without feeling overwhelmed. The visual elements, including high-quality images of solar installations and happy homeowners, contribute to a positive and trustworthy first impression.
Key Trust Signals on Display
Glowgreensolar.co.uk makes a concerted effort to build trust from the outset. They prominently display an “Excellent” rating on TrustPilot, a widely recognised review platform, with a significant number of reviews (625). This immediately signals to visitors that the company has a track record of customer satisfaction. Furthermore, claims such as “Trusted by 50,000+ customers since 2011” and mentions of awards for customer satisfaction reinforce their credibility. These trust signals are essential in an industry where consumers are making a significant long-term investment.
Glowgreensolar.co.uk Features
Diving deeper into Glowgreensolar.co.uk reveals a comprehensive suite of features designed to make the solar energy transition as seamless and appealing as possible for UK homeowners. They’ve clearly thought through the customer journey, from initial inquiry to long-term satisfaction.
High-Efficiency Solar Panels and Battery Solutions
Glow Green states they “install the best high efficiency panels,” specifically mentioning products like the Perlight solar panel, which boasts “leading efficiency” and “outstanding performance producing 450w/500w.” This focus on efficiency is crucial for maximising energy generation, especially in the UK’s climate. They also highlight various battery solutions, including award-winning British-manufactured batteries (available in 5kW modules up to 25kWh) and Tesla Powerwalls (13.5kWh capacity), catering to different energy storage needs and budgets. The emphasis on reputable brands and specific performance metrics adds a layer of professionalism and transparency. Spacedental.co.uk Review
Comprehensive Warranty and Guarantees
One of the standout features is their commitment to robust warranties. Glow Green offers an “up to 30 year warranty” on panels for both product and performance, and a 10-year warranty on battery systems. This long-term assurance provides significant peace of mind for customers, indicating confidence in the durability and longevity of their installations. Beyond product warranties, they also provide an “Insurance backed warranty scheme,” covering both deposit protection for 35 days and workmanship warranty insurance. This financial safeguard is a strong indicator of a company that stands behind its work.
Competitive Pricing and Price Guarantee
Glowgreensolar.co.uk makes a bold claim about “lowest possible prices” and backs it up with a “Unique Price Guarantee.” They state they will “beat any like-for-like quote from another National Supplier by at least £100.” This aggressive pricing strategy, attributed to “buying in bulk directly from our suppliers” and holding “over £2m of solar products in stock,” is designed to attract cost-conscious consumers. For homeowners, this guarantee can be a significant draw, ensuring they get a competitive deal without needing to haggle extensively.
Fast Installation and Nationwide Coverage
The website promises “Fast installation nationwide,” often completed within “as little as 2 – 4 weeks,” and in some cases, “as little as 10 days.” This quick turnaround is a major selling point, as homeowners typically want to start reaping the benefits of solar energy as soon as possible. The presence of “expert local engineers” across the nation suggests a well-organised operational structure capable of handling installations efficiently, reducing delays often associated with large-scale projects.
Accredited and Quality-Controlled Installations
Glow Green highlights its regulatory compliance and quality assurance. They are “regulated by MCS, NICEIC and HIES,” which are critical accreditations in the UK renewable energy sector.
- MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme): A mark of quality and competence for both installers and products, essential for customers to qualify for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
- NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting): Ensures electrical work meets high safety and quality standards.
- HIES (Home Insulation and Energy Systems Quality Assurance Contractors Scheme): Sets high consumer protection standards for selling and installing renewable energy systems.
They also mention that “100% of our installations are audited” to maintain high standards, providing an additional layer of quality control and customer confidence.
Tailored Packages and Savings Estimates
The website presents “Three Typical Packages” based on house size (2-3 bed, 3-4 bed, 5-6 bed), offering different panel quantities and inverter/battery configurations. This allows potential customers to quickly grasp the scale of a suitable system for their home. Crucially, they also provide “Illustrative Annual Savings” tables, showing potential electricity savings ranging from £761 for a 3-bedroom home to “Up to £1,901” for a 6-bedroom home. While these are estimates, they provide a tangible idea of the financial benefits, helping homeowners justify the investment. Timestrapco.co.uk Review
No-Obligation Quote and Impartial Advice
Glowgreensolar.co.uk offers a “free no-obligation quote” and promises “impartial advice” from their “Solar Experts.” They state, “We don’t believe in high pressure sales techniques.” This customer-centric approach is valuable, as it allows individuals to explore their options without feeling pushed into a decision. The ability to receive a range of options and expert guidance helps in making an informed choice, which is particularly important for a long-term investment like solar.
Glowgreensolar.co.uk Pros & Cons
Analysing Glowgreensolar.co.uk reveals several strong advantages that position it as a serious contender in the UK solar market, alongside a few considerations that potential customers should be aware of.
Pros of Glowgreensolar.co.uk
- Strong TrustPilot Rating and Testimonials: With an “Excellent” rating from over 600 reviews, prominently displayed customer feedback, and direct links to TrustPilot, the website cultivates significant consumer trust. This social proof is a powerful indicator of customer satisfaction and reliability.
- Comprehensive Accreditations: Being regulated by MCS, NICEIC, and HIES provides a robust framework of quality assurance and consumer protection. These accreditations are vital for ensuring safe, compliant, and high-performing installations, and are necessary for customers to benefit from schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
- Extensive Warranties: Offering a 30-year warranty on panels and a 10-year warranty on batteries, coupled with an insurance-backed scheme, demonstrates a strong commitment to product longevity and workmanship. This long-term peace of mind is invaluable for such a significant home improvement.
- Price Guarantee and Competitive Positioning: The unique price guarantee promising to beat competitor quotes by at least £100 is a compelling selling point. It suggests confidence in their cost-effectiveness, likely due to bulk purchasing and large stockholding, which can translate into real savings for customers.
- Detailed Information and Transparency: The website provides clear explanations of PV solar technology, installation processes, benefits, and even addresses common FAQs in depth. This level of transparency helps potential customers understand the investment thoroughly before committing.
- Focus on High-Quality Equipment: The mention of specific high-efficiency panels (e.g., Perlight) and reputable battery brands (e.g., Tesla Powerwall, Duracell) indicates a commitment to installing reliable, market-leading equipment, which is crucial for maximum energy generation and system lifespan.
- Nationwide Fast Installation: The promise of installations within 2-4 weeks, or even as little as 10 days, across the UK, is highly appealing. This efficiency means homeowners can start saving on their energy bills much sooner.
- Ethical Product: Solar energy itself is a highly ethical and sustainable solution, aligning with principles of environmental responsibility, reducing carbon footprint, and moving towards cleaner energy sources.
Cons of Glowgreensolar.co.uk
- Reliance on Online Lead Generation: While efficient, the primary call to action is to “View Prices” or “Get a free no obligation quote” via an online form. Some customers might prefer more immediate, direct interaction or a clearer indication of general pricing ranges before committing to a form submission.
- Illustrative Savings Only: The savings figures provided are “illustrative annual savings” and “typical electricity savings.” While this is standard practice, actual savings can vary significantly based on individual energy consumption, property specifics, weather patterns, and future energy tariff changes. It’s important for customers to understand these are estimates and not guarantees.
- Scaffolding and Roof Responsibility: The FAQs mention that scaffolding is typically needed and provided by Glow Green. However, it also states, “It is your responsibility to get your roof checked by a structural engineer should you have any doubt or concerns.” While reasonable, this adds an additional layer of potential complexity and cost for the homeowner if such a check is deemed necessary.
- Quote Validity Period: Quotes are only valid for 30 days due to “rising cost in materials due to the shortage of raw materials.” While understandable in the current economic climate, this can put pressure on customers to make a swift decision, potentially limiting time for further research or comparison.
How to Cancel Glowgreensolar.co.uk Subscription
While Glowgreensolar.co.uk doesn’t offer a “subscription” service in the traditional sense, as it’s primarily an installation and supply company, the relevant process for customers would be related to cancelling an order or service agreement. The website doesn’t explicitly detail a cancellation policy for orders once placed, which is a point worth noting. However, in the UK, consumer rights laws, such as the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013, provide a legal framework for cancelling contracts, especially those entered into at a distance (online or over the phone).
Understanding Your Rights to Cancel
Under UK consumer law, for contracts concluded at a distance, you generally have a 14-day “cooling-off” period from the day after the contract is agreed to cancel without giving any reason. This right applies to services like solar panel installations. If Glow Green begins the service (e.g., ordering custom parts or commencing design work) within this 14-day period with your explicit consent, and you then cancel, they may be entitled to charge you for the services already performed.
Recommended Steps for Cancellation
- Review Your Contract: The first and most crucial step is to carefully read the contract or terms and conditions you received from Glow Green. This document should outline their specific cancellation policy, any fees, and the required notice period.
- Contact Glow Green Immediately: If you decide to cancel, contact Glow Green as soon as possible. The website does not provide a specific cancellation contact, but you should use their general contact methods (phone, email, or a dedicated customer service portal if available). Clearly state your intention to cancel your order/agreement.
- Provide Written Notice: Always follow up any phone conversation with a written cancellation notice (email or recorded delivery letter). This creates a clear record of your cancellation request, including the date and time.
- Enquire About Deposits/Payments: Ask about the refund process for any deposits or payments made. Be aware of any charges for work already completed if you’ve gone beyond the initial cooling-off period or consented to work starting early.
- Document Everything: Keep copies of all correspondence, including emails, letters, and notes from phone calls (date, time, person spoken to, summary of discussion). This documentation is vital if any disputes arise.
Potential Charges for Cancellation
If you cancel outside the 14-day cooling-off period, or if significant work has already been carried out with your consent within that period, Glow Green may be entitled to charge for: Crouchrecovery.co.uk Review
- Survey and Design Work: Costs incurred for site surveys, system design, and planning.
- Material Procurement: Costs associated with ordering specific panels, inverters, or batteries for your project.
- Administrative Fees: Any administrative costs related to processing your order and subsequent cancellation.
It’s always best to clarify these potential charges directly with Glow Green’s customer service team.
Glowgreensolar.co.uk Pricing
While Glowgreensolar.co.uk heavily promotes competitive pricing and a price guarantee, it notably refrains from providing explicit, fixed price lists on its homepage. Instead, the repeated call to action is “View Prices” which directs users to a “Get a free no obligation quote” form. This approach is common in the solar installation industry, as pricing is highly bespoke due to various factors.
The Bespoke Nature of Solar Pricing
Solar panel installations are not off-the-shelf products; they are custom-designed systems tailored to individual properties. The final cost is influenced by numerous variables:
- Property Size and Energy Consumption: Larger homes with higher energy demands typically require more panels and larger battery storage, increasing costs.
- Roof Characteristics: Roof size, pitch, orientation, shading, and material all impact the number of panels that can be installed and the complexity of the installation.
- System Components: The specific type and brand of solar panels (e.g., Perlight, DMEGC), inverter (e.g., Growatt, Fox ESS, Duracell), and battery storage (e.g., Fox ESS, Tesla Powerwall, Duracell) chosen will significantly affect the price. High-efficiency panels or larger batteries naturally come at a premium.
- Installation Complexity: Factors like scaffolding requirements, electrical work complexity, and any necessary structural enhancements can add to the overall cost.
- DNO Application: As mentioned in their FAQ, systems larger than 3.68kW require a Distribution Network Operator (DNO) application, which “can be a charge that depends on the size of the system being installed and the area.”
- Current Market Rates: The website explicitly states, “Our quotations are only valid for 30 days. This is due to the rising cost in materials due to the shortage of raw materials.” This highlights that material costs are dynamic and can fluctuate.
Illustrative Package Examples
The website provides three “Typical Packages” as a guide, outlining components for different house sizes:
- 2-3 Bed Semi-Detached Home (3.6kW Package): 8 x 450w DMEGC N-Type Mono Panels, 3.6kW Growatt Residential String Inverter. Typical Electricity Savings 30%-45%.
- 3-4 Bed Detached Home (4.5kW Package): 10 x 450w DMEGC N-Type Mono Panels, 5kW Fox ESS G2 Hybrid Inverter, Fox ESS 5.18kWh Battery. Typical Electricity Savings 70%-80%.
- 5-6 Bed Detached Home (6.3 > 7.0 kW Package): 14 x Perlight 450w-500w N-Type Panels, 6kW Duracell Hybrid Inverter, Duracell 5kW Battery Included. Typical Electricity Savings 80% – 95%.
While these packages give a good indication of what’s included for different household needs, they still don’t provide a direct price, reinforcing the need for a personalised quote.
The “Lowest Prices” and Price Guarantee
Glowgreensolar.co.uk strongly asserts its commitment to “lowest possible prices” by purchasing in bulk and maintaining a large stock. Their “Unique Price Guarantee” to beat competitor quotes by £100 offers a compelling incentive for potential customers to engage in the quote process. This suggests that while prices aren’t advertised, they are confident in their competitive edge once a specific project is quoted.
Glowgreensolar.co.uk vs. Competitors
When evaluating Glowgreensolar.co.uk, it’s insightful to compare its offerings against other prominent players in the UK solar energy market. While direct head-to-head comparisons on specific pricing are difficult due to the bespoke nature of solar installations, we can look at their overall value proposition, customer service, and unique selling points. Marchdentalsurgery.co.uk Review
Key Competitors in the UK Solar Market
The UK solar installation market is diverse, ranging from large national providers to smaller, regional specialists. Key competitors often include:
- Project Solar UK: One of the largest installers in the UK, known for aggressive marketing and comprehensive packages.
- Evergen: Another significant player offering solar PV and battery storage solutions, often highlighting advanced technology.
- Local and Regional Installers: Numerous smaller, independent companies often known for personalised service and local expertise.
- Energy Companies (e.g., Octopus Energy, E.ON): Some major energy suppliers now offer solar installation services, integrating them with smart tariffs.
Comparison Points
1. Price and Guarantees
- Glowgreensolar.co.uk: Strong emphasis on “lowest possible prices” backed by a “Unique Price Guarantee” to beat like-for-like national quotes by £100. This is a very compelling offer that aims to reduce price shopping.
- Competitors: Many competitors will also offer competitive quotes and may match or beat prices, but explicit guarantees like Glow Green’s £100 promise are less common, or require more extensive negotiation. Some, like Project Solar UK, are known for competitive package deals.
2. Accreditations and Quality Assurance
- Glowgreensolar.co.uk: Clearly states MCS, NICEIC, and HIES accreditations, and audits “100% of our installations.” This provides a strong assurance of quality and compliance.
- Competitors: Most reputable installers will also hold MCS certification (essential for SEG), and often NICEIC or equivalent electrical certifications. The “100% audit” claim by Glow Green is a strong differentiator in terms of internal quality control.
3. Warranties and Aftercare
- Glowgreensolar.co.uk: Offers a competitive 30-year panel warranty and 10-year battery warranty, significantly bolstered by an “Insurance backed warranty scheme” for both deposit and workmanship. They also highlight ongoing support for the 30+ year lifespan of the system.
- Competitors: Warranties vary, but 25-year performance warranties for panels are standard, with product warranties typically 10-12 years. Battery warranties are often 10 years. Insurance-backed warranties are a strong consumer protection feature, and while offered by many HIES-accredited companies, Glow Green’s specific emphasis is noteworthy.
4. Speed of Installation
- Glowgreensolar.co.uk: Promises “Fast installation” within 2-4 weeks, or even as little as 10 days. This is a very quick turnaround for a full solar installation.
- Competitors: Installation timelines can vary widely. Some smaller companies might have quicker availability, while larger ones could have longer backlogs depending on demand. A 2-4 week timeframe is generally considered very efficient in the industry.
5. Customer Reviews and Reputation
- Glowgreensolar.co.uk: Boasts an “Excellent” rating on TrustPilot from over 600 reviews, with direct links to individual testimonials. This indicates a high level of customer satisfaction.
- Competitors: Reputable competitors will also have strong TrustPilot or other review scores. However, the sheer volume and consistently positive nature of Glow Green’s highlighted reviews contribute significantly to its perceived trustworthiness. Companies like Project Solar UK also have a large volume of reviews, which are generally positive but can vary.
6. Product Range and Technology
- Glowgreensolar.co.uk: Offers high-efficiency panels (e.g., Perlight, DMEGC) and a selection of prominent battery brands (Fox ESS, Tesla Powerwall, Duracell). This shows a focus on quality and choice.
- Competitors: Most major installers will offer a range of panel and inverter brands. The availability of specific high-end batteries like Tesla Powerwall can be a differentiator for some premium installers.
In summary, Glowgreensolar.co.uk positions itself strongly through aggressive pricing guarantees, comprehensive warranties (including insurance-backed), high accreditations, and impressive installation speed. Their emphasis on customer reviews and transparent information is also a key competitive advantage, aiming to build trust from the first interaction.
How to Get a Glowgreensolar.co.uk Quote
Getting a quote from Glowgreensolar.co.uk is a straightforward process designed to be as “free and no-obligation” as they state. Their entire website pushes users towards this single action, indicating a streamlined lead generation funnel.
Step-by-Step Quote Process
- Locate “View Prices” or “Get a free no obligation quote” buttons: These buttons are prominently displayed throughout the website, often at the top, bottom, and within content sections. Clicking any of these will lead you to their quote form.
- Complete the Online Form: The form typically asks for basic information about your home and energy needs. Based on the homepage text, this includes “some basic information about your home.” Common details requested by solar companies at this stage usually involve:
- Your postcode (to determine location and local engineer availability).
- Number of bedrooms (to estimate typical energy consumption and system size).
- Your name, phone number, and email address for contact.
- Sometimes, questions about your current energy bills or interest in battery storage.
- Receive Initial Contact: After submitting the form, Glow Green’s “friendly team of Solar Experts” will make contact. This could be a phone call or email. The website explicitly states, “One of our friendly solar experts will help you choose the best solution for your home. We don’t believe in high pressure sales techniques – take all the time you need.”
- Discussion with a Solar Expert: During this consultation, the expert will:
- Answer your questions.
- Gather more specific details about your property (e.g., roof type, orientation, shading, energy usage patterns). They mention using “Google Earth or similar Satellite tools,” or designing “from existing house plans or architect drawings” to determine panel fit.
- Recommend a range of PV Solar Solutions tailored to your home and budget.
- Provide a personalised, no-obligation quote.
- Review the Quote: You will receive a detailed quote outlining the proposed system components, estimated costs, and potential savings. Remember, “Our quotations are only valid for 30 days” due to material costs.
- Potential Site Survey (If Proceeding): If you decide to proceed with the quote, a physical site survey might be conducted to confirm technical details and ensure the proposed system is perfectly suited to your property.
Information to Prepare for Your Quote
To ensure you get the most accurate and useful quote, it’s beneficial to have some information ready:
- Recent Electricity Bills: This helps the experts understand your actual energy consumption patterns.
- Photos of Your Roof: Clear photos of your roof from different angles can assist in initial assessments of suitability and potential shading.
- Awareness of Your Roof’s Structure: While Glow Green highlights it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to check for structural integrity, having any existing knowledge or concerns noted can be helpful.
- Questions: Prepare a list of questions about the technology, installation process, warranties, maintenance, and payment options.
By following this process and being prepared, you can effectively engage with Glowgreensolar.co.uk to obtain a comprehensive and tailored solar energy solution quote for your home. Mgdesignsinteriors.co.uk Review
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PV Solar?
PV (Photovoltaics) refers to panels that generate electricity directly from sunlight. These panels, typically mounted on roofs and facing the Sun, capture solar energy and convert it into renewable electricity, which can then be used in your home or sold back to the electricity grid.
How does PV Solar work?
Solar panels convert the Sun’s energy into DC (Direct Current) electricity. An inverter then converts this DC electricity into AC (Alternating Current) electricity, which is the type used in homes and businesses. A generation meter records the production. Excess electricity not used immediately can be sold back to the grid or stored in a battery.
What PV Solar accreditations do Glow Green hold?
Glow Green is registered with The National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC), The MicroGeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), and The Home Insulation and Energy Systems Quality Assurance Contractors Scheme (HIES), ensuring high standards of electrical work, quality, and consumer protection.
What comes with a Glow Green PV Solar installation?
A Glow Green installation typically includes Tier 1 & MCS approved solar panels, an inverter to convert DC to AC electricity, isolators for safety, an optional battery storage system, and an OFGEM approved generation meter. After installation, you receive a full MCS handover pack to apply for a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Tariff.
What is the best direction to install panels to optimise the Sun?
In the Northern hemisphere, PV panels facing South towards the Equator generally produce the most electricity. Consistent direct sunlight maximises production. While facing perfectly South is ideal, panels don’t need to have a perfect pitch or orientation to function effectively. Weatherspoons.co.uk Review
What Does KW Mean?
KW stands for Kilowatt, a unit of power. In solar terms, the greater the KW, the larger the PV system, and typically, the more energy it can generate from the Sun.
What’s the difference between AC and DC electric?
Solar panels produce DC (Direct Current) electricity, which flows in one direction. Homes use AC (Alternating Current) electricity, which changes direction multiple times per second. An inverter is installed in a PV system to convert the DC electricity from the panels into usable AC electricity for your home.
What are the benefits of PV Solar?
Benefits include significantly reducing energy bills (potentially by up to 90%), generating income by selling surplus energy back to the grid (SEG), boosting property value, and reducing your carbon footprint by using clean, green, renewable energy with zero emissions.
How do Glow Green know how many panels will fit on my roof?
Glow Green can design a system using various methods, including Google Earth or similar satellite tools, bespoke solar design tools used by account managers, or from existing house plans. Fully trained and certified electricians sign off all designs to ensure they meet the highest standards.
What is a PV solar inverter?
A PV solar inverter is a crucial component that converts the variable DC (Direct Current) electricity produced by solar panels into stable AC (Alternating Current) electricity, which is compatible with your home’s electrical supply and the national grid. Luxurytiles.co.uk Review
Where should I have my Inverter fitted?
Inverters are often sited in lofts, basements, or garages where cooler air can help with efficiency. Many modern inverters are also designed to be installed outside. Glow Green’s design team will recommend the most suitable locations for your property during the quote process.
Will a solar diverter give me free hot water?
Yes, a solar diverter is an intelligent device that uses excess electricity generated by your solar PV panels to heat an immersion heater in your hot water cylinder. This can reduce the need for your boiler to turn on, saving energy and lowering your bills.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
In most cases, no, you do not need planning permission for solar panel installation in the UK, as it’s considered ‘permitted development’. However, if your property is in a conservation area or is a listed building, planning permission will likely be required.
I live in a listed building (or conservation area), is this an issue?
Yes, if you live in a listed building, solar panels cannot typically be installed on or within its boundary. In a conservation area, panels can be installed but not where they face, or are in between the property and, a public highway. You should contact your local planning authority for specific guidance.
I have lots of shading, is this an issue?
Shading on a PV panel can significantly reduce power output, as even a small shaded area can impact the entire string. Systems can be designed to minimise the effect of shading using specific technologies like optimisers (e.g., SolarEdge systems). Glow Green will assess shading as part of their free design call. 24hrmobiletyres.co.uk Review
Will I need scaffolding and do Glow Green provide this?
Yes, in most circumstances, scaffolding is needed for safe access to the roof for installers and materials. Glow Green includes the provision of scaffolding as part of their quote. It is typically erected a couple of days before installation and removed a day or two after.
Is the structure of my roof OK to take the weight of PV panels?
The structural integrity of your roof is crucial. Glow Green will assess the weight, wind uplift, and snow loading in their design. While they gather details to assist, it is ultimately your responsibility to get your roof checked by a structural engineer if you have any doubts or concerns about its ability to bear the additional weight.
What maintenance is needed after installation?
PV systems require very little maintenance due to having no moving parts. Panels might occasionally need cleaning if debris or grime accumulates, a service Glow Green does not provide. Regular energy production checks are recommended to ensure optimal performance, and visual inspections can be done by the homeowner.
What is the Insurance backed warranty scheme?
Glow Green provides an insurance-backed warranty with two elements: Installation Completion Insurance, which protects your deposit for 35 days if they cannot install; and Workmanship Warranty Insurance, which covers the installation in case Glow Green cannot honour its written guarantee.
What is SEG?
SEG stands for the Smart Export Guarantee. Since January 1st, 2020, it ensures that PV generators are paid by their energy supplier for any excess renewable electricity they export back to the grid. To qualify, your PV system and installer must be certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Beadlowmotors.co.uk Review
What is the pay back period?
The payback period is the estimated time it takes for the savings on your electricity bills and any income generated from selling excess energy (SEG) to recoup your initial investment in the solar system. It varies depending on system size, energy usage, and electricity prices.
After the system is installed what paperwork do I get?
Once the installation is complete and the balance paid, Glow Green will arrange scaffolding removal and provide you with a full MCS handover pack. This pack is essential as it enables you to apply for and benefit from Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariffs with a utility provider.
How long are the quotes valid for and why?
Glow Green’s quotations are valid for 30 days. This relatively short validity period is primarily due to the fluctuating costs of materials, which can change rapidly due to factors like supply chain disruptions and global demand.
What is a DNO?
DNO stands for Distribution Network Operator. A DNO is the company responsible for operating and maintaining the electricity distribution network (the local cables and power lines) in your specific area of the UK, which transports electricity from the national transmission grid to homes and businesses.
What is a DNO application?
A DNO application is required if you plan to install a solar PV system larger than 3.68kW. This application allows the DNO to check that your high-output system will not cause any load issues or instability on the local National Grid infrastructure. Themortgagebranch.co.uk Review
Who completes the DNO application?
Glow Green completes the DNO application on your behalf if one is required for your system size. This means you do not have to worry about the administrative process yourself, as they handle the submission and liaison with the Distribution Network Operator.
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