What are they?
We have approximately 500 homes with solar panels on their roofs, either installed by us or included at build. These panels help generate clean electricity and can lower your energy bills.
Types of Solar Panels
- Solar PV (photovoltaic): Captures the sun’s energy and converts it into electricity for your home.
- Solar Thermal: Uses solar energy to heat water for use in your home.
The energy from solar PV panels can be used in your home at no charge, helping to reduce your bills. When the solar-generated electricity runs out, your home seamlessly switches back to the grid.
Feed in Tariff (FiT)
Some of our solar panels are registered to a Feed in Tariff (FiT). When your panels generate more electricity than you use, the surplus is exported to the grid. We receive a payment for each kilowatt exported if registered with FiT.
More about Feed in Tariffs
The Feed in Tariff Scheme closed for new applications in March 2019 and was replaced by the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
Maintenance
We carry out regular maintenance checks on solar panels. You don't need to carry out any maintenance yourself.
Shared Ownership Homes
Some shared ownership homes have solar panels. Responsibility for repairs and maintenance depends on your lease terms. If unsure, please contact us.
Future Installations
Currently, there is no confirmed programme for additional solar panel installations, but we're always reviewing options to improve the sustainability of customers’ homes.
Customer Installations
Customers are not permitted to install solar panels themselves on our homes.
Maximising Solar Panel Use
- Solar panels work best during daylight hours—run appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during the day.
- Consider using timers for appliances if you’re not home during the day.
Energy Bill Savings
Savings depend on the number of panels, sunlight captured, and your usage patterns. Using appliances during the day increases savings.
See the table below from the Energy Saving Trust for average annual savings.
