Solar Panel FAQs
How do solar panels work?
Solar panels generate electricity from daylight. An inverter converts this electricity into a form your home can use.
Your home uses the solar electricity first, reducing the amount you need to buy from the grid. Any surplus electricity can be stored in a battery or exported.
Is my home suitable for solar panels?
Most homes can benefit from solar panels, but suitability depends on factors such as available roof space, shading, roof condition and household electricity use.
We will assess your property during a free home survey and explain what is realistically achievable.
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How much do solar panels cost?
The cost will depend on the size of the system, the equipment selected, your property and whether you add battery storage.
Our Costs & Savings page contains current example prices. Following a home survey, you will receive a clear proposal showing the complete installation cost.
View Costs and Savings
How much could I save with solar panels?
Your savings will depend on how much electricity the system generates, how much you use in your home, electricity prices and any income received from exported electricity.
Your personalised proposal will include estimated generation, savings, export income and payback based on your property and energy use.
Do solar panels work on cloudy days?
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight rather than heat, so they continue to work in cloudy conditions.
They will normally generate more electricity on bright, clear days than during heavily overcast weather.
Do I need planning permission?
Most domestic solar panel installations in England do not require planning permission.
Additional restrictions may apply to listed buildings, properties in conservation areas and certain protected locations. We will explain any relevant planning considerations during the survey.
How long does installation take?
Many straightforward residential installations can be completed within one day.
Larger systems, difficult access or additional electrical work may take longer. We will confirm the expected timescale before the work begins.
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How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels are designed to operate for decades and commonly come with long manufacturer performance and product warranties.
Your proposal will clearly explain the warranties that apply to the panels, inverter, battery and other equipment recommended for your system.
What maintenance do solar panels require?
Solar panels require relatively little maintenance.
Rain will remove much of the everyday dirt from rooftop panels, although occasional inspection or cleaning may be beneficial where there is a build-up of debris, dust or bird droppings.
We can advise on servicing and maintenance after installation.
Can I sell unused electricity back to the grid?
Eligible households can receive payment for electricity exported through the Smart Export Guarantee.
The amount you receive will depend on your chosen supplier, export tariff and the amount of electricity exported.
We will provide the relevant installation documentation and explain the next steps.
What guarantees and warranties are included?
Our installation workmanship is covered by a 10-year guarantee.
The equipment will also be covered by the relevant manufacturer warranties. These vary by product and will be explained in your proposal.
What happens if I move house?
Solar panels usually remain with the property when it is sold.
You should provide the new owner with the system documentation, warranties and monitoring information as part of the sale.
Battery Storage FAQs
Is battery storage worth it?
A battery allows you to store unused electricity and use it later, helping you make greater use of the energy generated by your solar panels.
Whether it is worthwhile will depend on when you use electricity, the amount you are likely to export, available tariffs and the additional installation cost.
We can compare the estimated costs and savings of systems with and without battery storage.
Can I install a battery without solar panels?
Yes. A standalone battery can be charged from the grid, potentially using lower-cost electricity during off-peak periods.
Whether this is suitable will depend on your electricity tariff, household usage and what you want the system to achieve.
Can I add a battery to my existing solar panels?
In many cases, yes.
Compatibility will depend on your existing panels, inverter, electrical installation and the battery system selected. We will assess your current installation before making a recommendation.
Will a battery keep my home running during a power cut?
Not every battery installation provides backup power automatically.
Power-cut protection requires suitable equipment and a system designed specifically for backup operation. We will explain the available options and any limitations before installation.
What size battery do I need?
The right battery size will depend on how much electricity your household uses, when you use it and how much surplus solar electricity your system is expected to generate.
We will recommend a battery based on your needs rather than simply offering the largest available model.
Can I monitor my battery and solar panels?
Most modern systems include an application or online monitoring platform.
This allows you to view information such as solar generation, battery charge, household consumption and electricity imported from or exported to the grid.
We will show you how to use the monitoring system during handover.
Ready to Take Control of Your Energy?
Whether you want to reduce your bills, increase your independence, or power your home with 100% renewable energy, we’re here to help.
With award-winning expertise, zero-deposit installations, and five-star aftercare, Impact Services is Norfolk’s trusted choice for solar and battery storage.
Complete our contact form to arrange your free home survey and no-obligation quote.