Below are answers to the questions we hear most from homeowners across Crawley, Sussex and Surrey, covering solar panel installation and more.
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not direct heat or sunshine, so they keep working through winter and on cloudy days — just at reduced output compared to bright summer sun.
Most roofs in Crawley and Sussex are suitable for solar panel installation. We install on pitched and flat roofs across all materials including tiles, slates and felt. South, east or west-facing aspects all work well. We carry out a free roof survey before every installation to confirm suitability and maximum system size.
A typical residential solar panel system in Sussex costs between £5,000 and £10,000 depending on system size. Most homeowners choose a 4–6kW system. ECO4 and GBIS government schemes may mean zero-cost installation for eligible households. We also offer 0% finance — contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.
Most homeowners in Sussex save £600–£1,200 per year on electricity bills with solar panels. Adding battery storage can push annual savings above £1,500. We model your savings estimate as part of every proposal based on your roof, usage and energy tariff.
Most residential solar panel installations in Crawley take one to two days. Larger systems or those with battery storage may take two to three days. We handle scaffolding, DNO notification and grid connection paperwork as part of every installation.
In most cases, no. Solar panels are permitted development in England and do not require planning permission. Exceptions include listed buildings and some conservation areas. We check planning requirements during your survey and advise accordingly.
Solar panels typically last 25–30 years. The panels we install carry a 25-year performance warranty guaranteeing at least 80% output. Inverters typically last 10–15 years and may need replacing during the panel lifetime.
The SEG pays you for excess electricity your solar panels export to the grid. Your installation must be MCS-certified to qualify — as all Electrotec installations are. We can recommend the best SEG tariff for your situation as part of your quotation.
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) is the UK quality standard for solar installers. Only MCS-certified installers like Electrotec can issue the certificate needed to claim the Smart Export Guarantee, ECO4 grants and manufacturer warranties. Always use an MCS-certified installer.
Yes — we retrofit battery storage to existing solar systems from any manufacturer. Whether you have SolarEdge, Fronius, SMA or another inverter, we can recommend a compatible battery. Popular options include FoxESS EQ series and Tesla Powerwall. We offer a free battery storage assessment for existing solar panel owners.
We are a FoxESS Elite Installer and Tesla Powerwall Certified Installer. We install the FoxESS EQ4800, EP2600 and HV2600, Tesla Powerwall 3 and SolarEdge batteries. Our team recommends the right system for your usage, export tariff and budget.
Yes. All scaffolding for your solar panel installation is arranged by us and included in your quote. We use certified scaffolding contractors and coordinate erection and removal around your installation dates.
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