Hi Richard,

Cards on the table; I work for [Name deleted - due to advertising rules] and we would be happy to quote for you.

We install semi-integrated systems using a bespoke installation process that gives a very integrated look. Some of the commercial systems on the market actually don't integrate the panels very well, leaving them proud of the roof tiles / slates. The visual effect of such systems are much better than standard bolt-on types, but if you are paying extra to have them semi-integrated you want the panels to actually be flush with the roof!

You have left it a bit late in terms of getting quotes [I would suggest getting at least 3 quotes from different companies] - have you already agreed a schedule with your roofer? You will need to keep your roofer in the loop with all the proposed works since there will be extra work they would not normally expect or budget for and which may also cause them delays which will affect their other works.

In respect of asking for quotes ensure that the companies are MCS registered and ask if you can see examples of past installations. All MCS accredited installers have to provide performance figures based on a mandated formulas that gives no favour to differing technologies. This means that a cheap polycrystaline panel appears to give the same performance as a more expensive mono or HIT panels. In practice, performance can vary hugely - even more-so with semi-integrated systems since the restricted ventilation space means the panels run hotter and less efficiently.

An experienced installer will be able to explain the different technologies and predict actual output figures expected for your site.

This is an expensive investment, one which will take at least 8 years to pay-back and with predicted lifespans of panels far in excess of the 20yr warranty (probably 60 years with a decent panel) so you need to ensure that your installer will be there to help you if ever you have a problem. As such cheapest isn't always best.

You have to go with your gut feeling on this, but my advise is stay clear of 'one man and his van' types and double glazing type salesmen. They may offer systems that seem fantastically cheap, but there is nearly always a reason. This industry is rife with companies that shut down and restart with a different name leaving their ex customers in the lurch, so ask them how long they have been trading and check them out on-line.

Above all don't be afraid to ask questions, ask them why they use the panels / inverters that they do. Most will be happy to explain; if their answers sound like waffle look elsewhere.

Ask to see examples of their work. Depending where you are there may be a Chelsfield install near-by that we can arrange for you to visit. Other companies should have a range of past customers installations that they can send photos of. If they can only provide stock photos available on their website look elsewhere. This is especially important with semi-integrated installs - you want to see just how seamless the integration is...


Happy Generating,

Simon

Yes and No. Solar RAC was never formally advertised. It was set up by our directors at that time (Mike and Jim) in association with Joe who runs a light engineering firm.

We developed a roof hook specifically for use with plain tiles - at that time a major market gap. For a number of reasons the hooks were never brought to market and the company was dissolved.

Now that Solar Limpets are on the market that looks like a very wise decision - whilst our hooks worked very well they took about twice as long to fit as the Limpets! We wouldn't have stood a chance...

...but we could've been millionaires - briefly!

Regards,

Simon