Generating Renewable Electricity
Solar Panel Installation in Hampshire & Dorset
- MCS certified
- RECC member
- 22+ years' experience
- Free, no-obligation quotes
How solar panels work
Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, capture energy from the sun and convert it into clean, renewable electricity for your home or business. Modern solar PV technology is more powerful and efficient than ever, helping property owners reduce energy bills, lower carbon emissions, and become less dependent on the grid.
Today's high-efficiency solar panels typically produce 450W or more per panel in strong sunlight, meaning fewer panels are needed to generate significant amounts of electricity. While performance is highest in direct sunshine, solar panels still generate power on cloudy or overcast days using daylight, making them well suited to the UK climate.
A typical residential solar PV system may include around 8–12 panels, which produce Direct Current (DC) electricity. Because household appliances use Alternating Current (AC), a solar inverter is installed to convert DC into usable AC power. This renewable electricity can be used throughout your property to run appliances, heat water, or charge electric vehicles, with surplus energy exported back to the grid where applicable.
Installing modern solar panels is an effective way to improve energy efficiency, reduce long-term electricity costs, and future-proof your property with sustainable power.
Key benefits of Solar Panels
Lower Electricity Bills
Solar panels allow you to generate your own power from sunlight, reducing the amount of electricity you need to buy from the grid and significantly cutting monthly energy costs.
Renewable, Low-Carbon Energy
Solar PV systems produce clean electricity with no direct carbon emissions, helping to reduce your carbon footprint and support the transition to sustainable energy.
Protection Against Rising Energy Prices
By producing your own electricity, you become less reliant on energy suppliers and better protected from future price increases.
Earn from Excess Energy
Any unused electricity can often be exported back to the grid, providing an additional financial return where export schemes are available.
Low Maintenance and Long Lifespan
Solar panels are durable, reliable, and require minimal maintenance. Most systems continue generating electricity efficiently for 25 years or more.
Increase Property Value and Appeal
Energy-efficient properties with solar installations are increasingly attractive to buyers and tenants, improving marketability and long-term value.
Installation Options
Types of Solar PV System
Solwat provides expert solar panel installation for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Our services include in-roof and on-roof mounted solar panels for homes, large-scale commercial solar PV systems, and ground-mounted installations for properties with suitable land. We also install advanced solar battery storage systems, allowing you to store excess electricity for use during the evening or peak tariff periods. For customers looking to maximise renewable energy use, Solwat can integrate EV charging solutions powered by solar energy. Every system we install is carefully designed to deliver maximum efficiency, long-term performance, and significant energy savings.
Investment
Solar Panel Costs, Savings & Payback
Investing in a solar PV system with Solwat can significantly reduce your electricity bills and protect your property from rising energy costs. Installation costs vary depending on system size and energy requirements, but modern high-efficiency solar panels provide excellent long-term value. By generating your own renewable electricity, you reduce reliance on the grid and may benefit from export payments for surplus energy. With most solar panels lasting 25 years or more, solar PV offers a strong return on investment while improving your property's energy efficiency and sustainability.
Why Should I Install Solar Panels?
As your solar PV system will be working at its peak during daylight hours, it's a good idea to run your electrical appliances such as your washing machine, dishwasher, and iron during the day.
You can combine solar PV with other renewable technologies such as heat pumps or solar hot water systems. These technologies work well with each other, as solar PV could help power a heat pump, for example, or several of these systems could feed into a thermal store.
Combine your solar panels with home battery storage and you can save considerably on your electricity costs because of the flexibility afforded. Your battery system can also take electricity from the grid when it is at its cheapest and use it during peak periods in the evening, creating the best possible balance between solar and grid electricity with the lowest possible costs.
Solar works just as well on older properties as on new homes – see how we add solar PV, heat pumps and batteries to existing homes, or how we specify systems for new build developments.
Get a Solar PV Quote
Start your journey toward lower energy bills and cleaner power with Solwat. Contact our renewable energy specialists today for a free consultation and personalised solar PV quote. We will assess your property, explain your options, and design a system tailored to your energy needs and budget.
Get Your Free QuoteSolar Panel FAQs
Do solar panels work in the UK?
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, making them effective even in cloudy conditions.
How long do solar panels last?
Most solar PV systems continue producing electricity efficiently for 25 years or more.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
In most cases, installations fall under permitted development, but Solwat will advise based on your property – for example if it is listed or in a conservation area.
Is there VAT on solar panels?
Solar panels and home batteries installed in residential properties are zero-rated for VAT until 31 March 2027. After that the reduced rate of 5% is due to apply.
Can I get paid for the electricity I export?
Yes. Under the Smart Export Guarantee, larger electricity suppliers must offer a tariff for the surplus solar electricity you export to the grid. Rates vary between suppliers, and an MCS-certified installation is normally required.
Can battery storage be added later?
Yes, many solar PV systems can be upgraded with battery storage to increase energy independence.
Will solar panels reduce my electricity bills?
Yes. Generating your own power reduces the amount of electricity you need to purchase from your supplier.
Reviews
What our customers say
Verified reviews from homeowners we've worked for, published on Checkatrade.
“James and Dan were friendly, knowledgable and courteous. The work was expedited in an efficient manner…”
Battery added to existing solar PV
SO30 (Hedge End area, near Southampton), October 2024
Trusted Suppliers
Quality Assurance
The installation process
Solwat provides a straightforward, professional solar panel installation service from start to finish.
- 1
Consultation & Survey
We assess your property, energy usage, and suitability for solar PV.
- 2
System Design
Our experts design a bespoke system to maximise performance and savings.
- 3
Professional Installation
Accredited engineers install your panels, inverter, and connections safely and efficiently.
- 4
Testing & Handover
We commission the system, ensure optimal operation, and show you how to monitor your energy generation.
- 5
Aftercare & Support
Ongoing assistance to keep your solar PV system performing at its best.
Ready to get started?
Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote. Our team will assess your property and recommend the best solution.
Solwat Green Energy
Lea Green Farm, Christchurch Road, Lymington, Hampshire SO41 0LA
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