FAQs

Who is responsible for looking after the panels?

Solar panels need little maintenance but, of course, something could go wrong and they should be cleaned if they become dirty. With Paul O’Brien everything is included in your contract. We take total responsibility for maintenance, repair and the smooth running of your solar system, including the replacement of the inverter (average life of 12-15 years), and handling any claims and paperwork to do with manufacturers warranties on items like solar panels.

Would you require constant access for any maintenance?

No. In the event that we do need to access your house to carry out any repairs and ensure that you continue to receive free electricity, we would call or email to arrange a suitable date and time.

Will the panels affect our roof in high winds?

No. The panels fit very closely against the roof. The fixing system has been rigorously tested to ensure it is stable in even the most severe weather conditions. We maintain our own insurance if there was ever any roof damage that was not covered by your own buildings insurer, so there is no need to worry.

Will our roof tiles be damaged in the installation?

It's extremely unlikely but if any tiles were damaged in the fitting process, we will replace them at no cost to you.

How long does it take to fit the solar system?

Normally an installation is completed within 1-2 day’s weather permitting.

What if my roof needs repairs after I've installed solar panels?

Ideally, you should install solar panels on a roof that is in good condition, and your Paul O’Brien solar surveyor will check that it's suitable. Once the solar panels are installed, they actually help to protect your roof from the elements. If you should ever need to make repairs on the roof, the solar panels will need to be removed and re-installed (we can do this for a reasonable fee). 

Who insures the panels (in the case of vandalism or accidental damage, for example)?

If you buy the system outright, you will be responsible for them once they have been installed. It's likely that they are covered by your Buildings or Contents insurance policy, and you'll also be covered by the manufacturer's standard product and performance warranties. However, in the event of a claim we may be able to assist.

How can Paul Obrien solar afford to reduce the cost of solar so dramatically?

In April 2010, Government introduced new laws requiring energy companies to pay for the renewable power generated by homes. These are called Feed-in Tariffs (or FiTs). It’s all part of the drive to reduce carbon emissions in the UK – a staggering 27% of which are produced from homes. With FiTs an average home could save/earn around £1k per year (look under ‘FiTs’ and Buy Solar on the site to find out more). Over 20 years, the homeowner could earn 5%-8% return. Fantastic but the homeowner still has to find the £11k upfront cost of a solar system, and be in it for the long, long term. The way Paul O’Brien’s business works is that we fund the solar installation. Homeowners get free electricity from the sun instantly and start reducing their electricity bills; Paul O’Brien receives the FiTs to recoup its investment and make a sustainable profit.

Will my lighting be dimmer?

No. You won't notice any difference whatsoever. If the panels aren't producing much electricity (as on a very dull day or at night time), the electricity from the grid will simply 'top it up'. 

Do I have to switch the panels on each day?

No. They are working all the time. When there is no daylight, they are simply on 'standby'. You don't have to switch them on or off.

Can solar panels significantly offset environmental emissions?

Solar is a 'clean renewable' technology. That means, unlike fossil fuel based energy, such as coal and gas, solar is produced from a natural, infinite resource (we won't run out of light!) and produces no global warming CO2 emissions as it generates electricity. By installing a 2.5kWp system you will be saving about 1,000 kgCO2 each year compared to buying the same quantity of electricity from the grid. There is a carbon footprint associated with the manufacture and transport of a PV panel which varies by type but on average a PV system 'pays back' the embedded carbon emissions of manufacture in about 3 years.

Can solar can add value to my property?

In YouGov's survey in 2009, home buyers ranked energy efficiency as the third most important reason to buy, just behind outdoor space and a garage. In Energy Saving Trust's 2009 survey, 35% of people said they would be willing to pay more for a home where some of their energy supply came from renewable resources.

What happens after 20 years of the contract with Paul O’Brien solar?

After 20 years, the ownership of the system reverts to the customer, and they will continue to benefit from free electricity. The system will have a probable useful life of a further 15 - 20 years.

What are feed-in tariffs?

As part of the push towards a greener UK, new legislation means that energy companies have to pay you for any renewable energy you produce. These payments are called Feed-in Tariffs (or 'FITs'). The level of the payment (the 'tariff') varies for different renewable energy sources and installation sizes. Our Solar section has more information.

Am I better off buying a PV system or having a Free Solar package?

We aren't financial advisors, and it is really down to your personal circumstances. The new government-led FITs are projected to give you an annual tax free 9-12% return on your money for a 20 year period and a breakeven time of about 10 years. If your time horizons are shorter (maybe you will move), you do not have the £4-6k available to invest in solar panels and/or you have something better to do with the money, a free solar package may be a better option (assuming that your roof is eligible).

How much money will I save by using free electricity from solar?

It could be a third (assuming medium energy use and - per the Energy Saving Trust assumptions - that you use 50% of the electricity you produce). But the actual amount will always depend on how and when you use electricity. You'll get a lot free, for example, if you are in during daylight when the panels are producing and/or you set timers for equipment like washing machines. Whatever the figure, the savings are likely to increase because everything you produce is inflation proof (energy prices have doubled over the last 5 years, according to research by uSwitch last year)

How can I be sure I am using the free electricity?

Everything happens automatically. When the solar panels are fitted, you use your electricity as normal. If there is electricity being produced by the panels during daylight hours when you use anything electrical it will use that first automatically.

It’s also about changing your behaviour and attitude to energy usage when you’re receiving free and cheap electricity and training yourself and your household to use high consuming items such as washing machines, dish washers, tumble dryers during the daylight hours.

If there isn't enough being produced for what you need, or if it is night-time, then you will automatically use electricity from your usual supplier.

How does all this work with my existing power company?

It doesn't affect anything that you already do and so you don't need to worry about anything. You stay with whatever energy provider you like, and switch when and if you like. Your utility company will take its normal reading and bill you as usual. Of course, this reading will be lower and so your electricity bill will be less (and if you buy a solar PV system up front, you will receive a cheque as well as a bill!). And that's true whether you buy electricity and gas together or individually from different companies.