We all want to be kind to the planet and it would be nice if we could save a few pennies as well. Fuel costs and interest rates are on the rise, meaning lot of us have more to pay but less money to pay it with. Solar panels are an attractive option; they’re environmentally friendly, they can save you money and there are even grants available for their installation. Sadly, not all houses are suitable for solar panel installation.
There are all sorts of extra regulations applying to houses in conservation areas or World Heritage Sites. Solar panel installation generally comes under the category of "permitted development", meaning that although you won't have to apply for planning permission, you will have to stick to a few extra requirements;
1) As far as is possible, the panels should be sited so as to minimise their aesthetic intrusion. That is, try to make them as inconspicuous as possible.
2) The solar panels should cause minimal intrusion to the amenity of the area, i.e. the solar panels shouldn’t spoil those things that make the conservation area so attractive in the first place.
3) The solar panels should be removed as soon as possible should they no longer be in service. So, if you sell the property and the new owner does not intend to continue using the solar panels, they should be taken down.
4) Solar panels should not be installed above the ridgeline of the roof. Neither should they project more than 200mm from the roof.
5) Although solar panel installation does not require planning permission, if your house is listed the standard listed building consent is still necessary (just as if you were installing a satellite dish, for example).
Non-listed houses and those outside of conservation areas do still have some regulations placed on them as regards solar panel installation.
Obviously, the roof of your house has to be physically able to bear the weight of the panels. If your roof is in a poor state of repair, then it may not be strong enough to carry the weight, or may not offer a sufficiently secure anchor for the panels. In these cases, even were solar panel installers to fit them, there is a chance the panels may break the roof or even fall off. The strength of your roof will need to be checked and proven before you have solar panels installed. Strengthening or repair work may be necessary.
Roofs will a northern aspect with a northern aspect are not suitable for the installation of solar panels because they do not get enough light. Neither are those which are completely in the shade.
There are, in addition, all the usual regulations regarding major electrical work. It’s advisable to get qualified solar panel installers in to check your house meets all of the essential requirements.
Don't be put off having solar panels installed. Most hosues will require no work to be done at all. Even if your roof does need a little repair work or strengthening, the cost will easily be offset by the savings you make from your own private source of renewable energy. The secret to green energy and lower fuel bills might be right above your head.
