Solar Panel Quotes Online

Solar Panel Quote Process

1 Complete a Simple Form

We ask a few questions about your home or business.

2 Pick Your Solar System

One of our friendly account managers will discuss the various options available.

3 Installed by our Experts

We will arrange your installation by one of our professional and friendly local engineers, typically within 2 - 4 weeks - so you start saving sooner!

Why Choose Glow Green?

Product Warranty

Low Prices

Accredited

MCS Certified

Qualified Electricians

Award Winning

Quality Control

Rapid Installations

Product Warranty

Low Prices

Accredited

MCS Certified

Qualified Electricians

Award Winning

Quality Control

Rapid Installations

Typical Solar Panel Quotes

A typical PV panel offered by Glow Green measures 1722mm by 1134mm, or 1.95m2, generating 430 watts of electricity in standard test conditions [STC]. In the UK, this STC is determined by a cell temperature of 25°C and an irradiance of 1000 W/m2 with an air mass 1.5 (AM1. 5) spectrum.

Glow Green’s typical sale is of 13 panels, equating to an array of 5.59kWp and requiring a roof space of a little over 25 m2.

A typical semi-detached house, measuring 5 metres wide and 8 metres deep, with a symmetrical gable ended roof at a pitch of 35 degrees would have an available roof space of 35 m2, even after taking into account regulatory distances from the edge of a roof.

This would be split across multiple roofs, as our typical designs are over 2 roofs, to make the most of all available roof space, irrelevant of orientation.

The table below presents a panel size of 430 watts and a kWh/kWp value of 985.

Choosing The Right Solar Panel Quote

When choosing the right solar panel quote, it's essential to consider various factors beyond just the price. You can expect a quote from Glow Green to be comprehensive, transparent and tailored to your specific needs. Our expert team will provide you with detailed information on system specifications, costs and warranties ensuring you have all the necessary data to make an informed decision.

Our three packages are as follows:

Payback On Solar Panels

We often see payback periods of 8 years and have seen as low as 3 years. Your electricity usage, time of use and it’s cost per kWh will determine your payback period but it's important to remember that PV Systems really are one of those investments that start paying back straight away.

With our DMEGC solar PV system with a battery costing around £7,600 and the same system without a battery costing just over £5,400, there has never been a better time to invest in PV and have you system designed by us at Glow Green.

Pitched Roof Solar Panel Quotes

First, we start by using our bespoke design software to outline your pitched roof and mark the gutters to determine the roof's tilt. If satellite images aren't available, we can use property planning documents or title deeds from the HM Land Registry Portal.

Next, we determine the roof pitch using building plans or architect's drawings. If these aren't accessible, we use Google Street View or a photo you provide to calculate the slope.

We then figure out just how big your PV system needs to be or could possibly be using precise measurements from building plans or Google Maps. We also measure the roof's width and identify any obstacles like windows, chimneys, or TV aerials.

After measuring the roof's width, we calculate its depth and the placement of any obstacles.

As satellite imagery is taken from above our properties, we cannot just measure the depth of a roof as this will not take into account the roof's trajectory. Where a roof is equal on both sides, symmetrical, like most properties are, you can measure the full depth of the property, divide this measurement by 2, creating a Right-Angled Triangle, making our calculations simple.

As we have the horizontal distance, the “adjacent” length, and its angle, we use this to find our longest sides length (the depth of the roof), “the hypotenuse”.

So for example, the horizontal measurement = 4 and the pitch (Angle A) = 35°, we can use a sine and a tangent to find the hypotenuse and using a calculator, this equals 4.8831.

Once we have an accurate width and depth we can move onto creating a scale to notate where any obstacles fall on a roof. As objects on a roof could cause a shadow at times of the day over parts or all of the solar PV array, their placement and size is of the utmost importance when calculating the systems yearly performance later.

We also must ensure that we are leaving appropriate distances from the edges of the roof, around leaded and cemented areas and roof light trims for general maintenance and other Approved Document Building Regulations.

To create a scale, first we need to have a known measurement and then detailed enough pictures to isolate other objects on a roof. For instance, where we now have the depth and width of a roof, if we then count the number of tile rows going up a roof, you can create a scale for obstructions to be placed. If your roof has a depth of 4.55meters, and you can clearly see 14 rows of tiles then: 4.55m / 14 = 0.325m per tile line.

This can then be checked against the standard measurements and overlaps of concrete, slay or slate roof tiles, to double check and ensure you have the correct dimensions and positioning of the roof and its obstacles. Standard measurements of tiles can be found on many building merchant websites and sometimes you can identify the exact tile just from an aerial photo.

Flat Roof Solar Panel Quotes

Installing solar panels on flat roofs is not only possible but often advantageous. Flat roofs provide an ideal surface for solar panel installation due to their accessibility and the flexibility they offer in panel orientation. Though, like pitched roofs, there are a few things we need to confirm:

We follow the same process to determine the available roof space, but without the theory of Pythagorus for determining the roof size. We do however use it to determine the distance required between each row of panels so that they do not shade each other, reducing the PV Arrays performance.

Firstly though, the Margin required from the edge of the Roof to the first panel must be a minimum of a fifth of the Building Height:

• A building height of 3.0m = 600mm (Typical 1 storey)

• A building height of 9.0m = 1800mm (Typical 3 storeys)

If the flat roof is surrounded by lower roofs or there is a parapet wall surrounding some edges of the roof, this can lower the distance required. Reputable manufacturers of ballasted flat roof mounting equipment provide online calculators to determine the distances required and the ballast required for the location and exposure of the property and roof.

Van Der Valk and Renusol are 2 companies that provide this service and when accurate information is entered into this calculator we can design a safe and reliable system.

We will always require more information from our customers for these roof types and a structural engineer will always be required to confirm that the roof structure can withstand the additional load a ballasted array imposes.

The main reason we use ballasted arrays though is to ensure the structural integrity and weatherproofing of the flat roof is not compromised for the lifetime of the installed PV system.

Ever wondered why we bother prying into your roof type when presenting you with a solar quote? It comes down to the nitty-gritty detail of choosing the perfect mounting system and fixing brackets for a seamless installation.

First, let's discuss large concrete or clay interlocking tiles. These tiles are popular due to their affordability and ease of installation.

To identify them, look at the size of the tiles on the gable end of the house and how much they overlap each other.

These tiles fit together like tightly linked puzzle pieces, offering substantial protection against the British weather. Each tile interlocks with its neighbour and overlaps the one below, creating a secure and weather-resistant roof.

Next, we have Plain Tiles, also known as small tiles or rosemary tiles. These tiles are smaller and do not interlock like their larger counterparts.

Typically made from concrete or clay, plain tiles rely on overlapping to protect against rain and wind, covering the roof from all sides, top, and bottom.

In our quotes for plain tile roofs, we include a Hookstop - a recycled plastic or rubber tile that replaces the tile directly beneath the mounting bracket.

This clever addition prevents tile breakages and provides a spare roof tile, as accidents can happen.

Finally, let's talk about slate roofs. These are typically made from natural slate or artificial/composite materials. They are elegant and sophisticated, yet thin and fragile.

Slate tiles overlap in a manner similar to plain tiles and are complemented with flashings over the mounting brackets for added protection.

n our quotes for slate roofs, we include a Flashing Kit. This kit acts like a vigilant guard, offering robust weather protection where a slate tile is replaced by a mounting bracket. It ensures that rainwater is effectively directed away from the roof bracket and the missing slate.

Choosing the right roofing material is essential, as it is crucial to get this right at the design stage to ensure a smooth and efficient installation.

Ground Mounted Solar Panel Quotes

Installing ground mounted solar panels allows homeowners to generate clean energy while avoiding roof limitations. But how much do these systems cost in the UK? Recent quotes show ground mounts ranging from £5,500 to over £16,000 depending on the system size and battery options.

For a basic 1kW setup with no battery, expect to pay around £5,500. This provides four 430w panels on a ground frame, but no energy storage. Adding a battery like the popular Tesla Powerwall 3 will notably add to the cost. Mid-range batteries from GivEnergy or Pylontech add £2,000-4,000 to the overall quote.

As the system size increases, so do the installation costs. A 3kW array with 430w panels and no battery runs around £6,200. Double that to a 6kW system and the price increases to approximately £7,500 without batteries. Large 8kW installations cost £8,500+ for the ground mount and panels alone.

In the end, ground mounted solar can deliver returns but requires upfront investment. Carefully weigh options like system size, panel efficiency, and energy storage to find the optimal balance of performance and affordability.

10 Considerations When Getting Solar Quotes

1. Property type - The type of property you own, whether it's a house or a business, the direction your roof faces, and where your property is in the UK, are important things to think about when getting a solar panel quote. These factors can affect how well your solar system works and how long it takes to pay for itself. You might also need planning permission if your property is in a protected area.

2. Your lifestyle - When does your home use most electricity? If it's mostly at night, adding a battery to store solar power could be a good idea. Other things to think about include how many people live in your home, or if you're working from home during the day. Knowing when you use electricity can help design the best solar power system for your home.

3. Is your roof / ground structurally suitable - Periodically, it may become necessary to involve a structural engineer to evaluate if the framework of your roof or ground can sufficiently sustain the weight of the solar panels along with the associated roof mounting equipment.

4. How much electricity do you currently use? - What is your present consumption of electricity? It's important to match the size of your solar panel system to your yearly power usage. Building an overly large system might generate income through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), but if you don't use enough energy, it can prolong the time it takes to recuperate your initial investment.

5. Are you planning on getting an EV or a heat pump? - Thinking about getting an electric car or installing a heat pump in your home? It's best to plan for major electrical work ahead of time. The UK Government wants to stop making petrol and diesel cars by 2035. If you plan to stay in your home for a long time and are thinking about switching to an electric car, it's wise to get a solar panel quote that covers your future needs like powering your heat pump and charging your car.

6. What accreditations does your installer have? - For a reliable PV solar quote, make sure your installer possess these certifications - MCS, HIES, EPVS, NICEIC, and Trustmark.

7. Are there any protections with the PV solar quote? - You should always select a quote from an installer who is a member of EPVS (Energy Performance Validation Scheme) and provides Design Indemnity Insurance. These will guarantee a proper design and offer solutions for any future problems.

8. Does it financially make sense? The key aspects to consider when choosing a solar panel quote are the time it will take to recover your investment and the overall savings you will make over the system's 25-year lifespan.

9. How long are you planning on living at your property? - Considering the duration you intend to stay in your property is crucial. If you plan to live there for a long time, investing in solar panels with a 30-year warranty might be beneficial. Should you decide to sell your house in the future, don't worry. Solar panels can boost its value and appeal, making it more efficient and attractive to prospective buyers.

10. Is there a finance plan included in the quote? - If you're considering this, ensure that your installer has registered with the FCA - Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker. This can make your payments more manageable, based on your financial situation and affordability.

How Your Property Impacts Your Quote

When considering installing solar panels, several aspects of your property influence the quote such as:

• The orientation and angle of your roof relative to the sun play a crucial role in determining the efficiency and output of the solar panels. Properties with roofs that face south and have a steep angle typically receive more sunlight throughout the day, which translates to higher energy production potential and can result in a more favourable quote.

• The condition and age of your roof also matter, as a sturdy and relatively new roof ensures a secure base for solar panel installation, potentially lowering installation costs.

• The size of your property and available roof space impact the number of panels that can be installed, directly affecting the overall cost and potential savings from solar energy.

• Local regulations, incentives, and subsidies for renewable energy installations in your area can also influence the final quote, making it essential to consider both the physical characteristics of your property and external factors when planning for solar panel installation.

Sizing Your Solar PV System

With the available space determined, we now look at how large a PV Array we can fit on.

In the past because of the Government's Feed in Tariff and regulations, domestically a “4kW system” was always hoped for. Now because systems are cheaper and the industry is more established this approach is not necessarily best. Arrays are smaller, as a 4kW system could be 9 panels now, rather than 16 panels or more as before. Approximately 15 square metres vs 25sqm. Systems can also now be designed to store generated electricity, so often the more the better.

Generally the bigger the system, the more cost effective it is as all of the electricity generated can be used. As an average, the typical home and occupier will use 25% of a PV system's generated electricity at the time of it being generated. The remaining 75% can either be stored in a battery or exported back to the grid to be purchased by your neighbours from their Utility Provider.

Being able to change your time of use of high electricity using appliances will help to make the most of the generated electricity.

As discussed earlier, although a south facing roof with have the highest irradiation level, the main costs associated with a PV system investment are not increased relative to the amount of panels but from a base price which includes the electrical wiring for a new AC circuit, the DC Circuits, an Inverter and other associated components which themselves don’t increase in costs relative to their size either. Due to this, as long as the budget allows, a system will be designed as large as the customer wishes to go.

Once we have done all of the hard work creating the customers property in our design software, creating multiple quotes for our customers is easy and typical. We offer 3 ranges of panels, depending on the expected length of the return on investment and 4 different batteries. We find that most of our customers wish to invest in and stay in their homes for a long time and so bear this in mind to which panel manufacturer they pick.

Our Ultra range comes with a 30 year manufacturing and performance warranty, well above the industry average, which they can give because their manufacturing techniques give them the confidence that their product is going to last for the long term. For homeowners who are in their “forever home”, this is the panel for them, peace of mind that unlike their toasters and tablets, the investment in their chosen PV panel manufacturer won’t stop after a few years.

Getting To Know Our Customers

At Glow Green, our process begins with a thorough consultation with you, the customer. We're eager to learn about your aspirations, from your overarching goals to the specific intricacies of your property.

We understand that a Solar PV installation isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It's about finding the perfect match for your unique needs.

Our team comprises in-house Qualified Electricians and Solar PV Experts who possess not only impressive titles but also the expertise to handle complex challenges and design sophisticated setups.

For our commercial clients, we recognize the diverse demands of your properties — varying electricity consumption patterns, distinctive architectural layouts, and more.

Our specialised design team is well-versed in the art and science of Commercial Solar PV design and estimation, ensuring tailored solutions that meet your specific requirements.

Curious about our PV Solar Quote process? Once we've established a rapport through initial discussions, we delve into the specifics to provide you with a comprehensive proposal.

Armed with the precision of Google Maps and a dedicated spirit, we meticulously survey your property using satellite imagery.

Our extensive track record speaks volumes: with tens of thousands of PV installations completed, we have earned a reputation for reliability akin to your most trusted possessions.

Our credentials are noteworthy: accreditation from NICEIC, recognized as a hallmark of excellence in electrical standards, and MCS certification, a prestigious endorsement in renewable energy. This assures our capability to facilitate SEG agreements, ensuring you benefit from Smart Export Guarantee schemes mandated by your utility provider.

Furthermore, our close alliances with DNOs and iDNOs enable us to navigate regulatory procedures seamlessly, whether for generator applications or PV system commissioning, guided by our comprehensive knowledge of ENA guidelines and governmental mandates.

Membership in HIES and RECC underscores our unwavering commitment to superior customer service and stringent quality assurance, ensuring we remain at the forefront of our industry.

At Glow Green, our leadership comprises qualified engineers driven by a profound dedication to delivering industry-leading standards in every facet of our designs, quotations, and installations. Your satisfaction and our expertise are paramount in our mission.

Pre Installation Checks

As part of this process, you receive a link to upload a list of photographs that will help us ensure we design the best PV system for you. We ask for:

Other specific photo requirements might be discussed with customers but the above photos would normally mean that we can ensure the accuracy of design / PV Solar quote and suitability of a PV system.

Why Quotes Are Valid For 14 Days

At Glow Green PV solar quotes are valid for 14 days as our aim is to secure our customers the very best products and the UK’s leading prices. There are many market factors that mean we can only hold PV solar quotes for 14 days,

• The technology is always evolving and we want to provide cutting edge technology to our customers as products evolve.

• Prices can move up and down like a rollercoaster. This is due to Shipping cost from China, FOREX rates, and the cost of Raw materials used in the manufacturing process.

• The Global Demand - We did see lots of stock shortages through 2021 and 2022. At Glow Green we own a 17.000 SQ/FT warehouse and hold over £4,005,250 GBP in stock.

• Wholesale energy Market, which as we have seen in the UK (and around the world) has been very vulnerable.

References

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Solar Panel Quote FAQs