Yes we do ! We have a 5KW hybrid inverter with 12 x 445W panels and a 15kWh battery. Two years in and the payback has been amazing ! Battery storage is really important with a smaller system, as it allows us to spread our energy consumption throughout the day and night. 

My main roof wasn’t suitable to install solar PV Panels, so we managed to fit one group (or string) on our lower extension roof and another string on our home garden office roof, using a flat roof system. We’re Engineers, so sometimes we can find solutions that aren’t obvious.

We are based in Portsmouth and generally cover, Hampshire, Portsmouth, Southampton, Havant, Fareham, Gosport, Winchester, West Sussex, Worthing, Littlehampton, Bognor Regis, Chichester, Dorset, Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Weymouth, Dorchester, Oxfordshire, Oxford, Banbury, Bicester, Abingdon, Witney, Wiltshire, Salisbury., New Forest.

Most properties in the UK are suitable for solar panel installation, provided they have a roof space with reasonably unobstructed sunlight exposure. South facing is good, as is an east / west configuration. The panels can  be installed on a pitched or even flat roof, sometimes we can use garages or outbuildings. A professional assessment can determine the feasibility and optimal configuration for your property.

Solar panels work well in the UK, even during cloudy conditions they generate electricity from daylight (irradiance) rather than direct sunlight, so they can still produce power on overcast days. It’s always better to think of total generation over the year. During spring to Autumn, we generate, store, use and sell back to the grid, in-order to cover those darker winter periods; although, on a cold bright winter day, your panels will work more efficiently than during summer ! which can really top up that annual production.

Battery storage systems store excess electricity generated by your solar panels during the day for use at night or during peak demand times, they maximize self-consumption and further reduce reliance on the grid. 

Certain energy suppliers charge a cheaper overnight electricity tariff, generally between set times; 00:00 – 05:00 for example. We can force charge our batteries during this cheaper period and use this stored energy during the day. 

If we want to be really smart using our Solar PV and battery Storage: we can sell-back to our energy supplier at peak times (usually between 17:00 – 19:00) for a much higher tariff. There are some great YouTube tutorials on making the most out of your system and SEG payment options.

For the majority of our clients, the DNO application process should be reasonably straightforward. Most of our installations come under the G99 fast track process. We have a good relationship with the various DNO’s and we appreciate the service they provide, in dealing with requests to connect our installations to the network.

Here’s a brief overview of what a DNO is:

In the UK, DNO stands for Distribution Network Operator. These are companies licensed to distribute electricity to homes, businesses, and other premises within specific geographical areas. Their primary responsibilities include:

1. Distribution of Electricity: DNOs own and operate the distribution network that delivers electricity from the national transmission network (owned by National Grid) to consumers. This network consists of substations, transformers, and power lines.

2. Connection Services: DNOs provide connection services for new electricity connections and alterations to existing connections. This includes assessing the feasibility and impact of connecting new installations like solar PV systems to their network.

3. Regulation and Compliance: DNOs must comply with regulations and standards set by Ofgem (Office of Gas and Electricity Markets), the regulator for electricity and gas markets in Great Britain. They ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of electricity distribution.

4. Impact on Solar PV Installations: DNOs can significantly influence solar PV installations for customers in several ways:

   • Connection Agreements: Before installing a solar PV system, customers must obtain a connection agreement from the DNO. This agreement outlines technical requirements, costs, and conditions for connecting the system to the grid.

   • Grid Capacity: DNOs manage the capacity of their networks. If a network is already at capacity or lacks infrastructure to support additional solar PV installations, they may require upgrades or impose constraints on new connections.

   • Technical Requirements: DNOs set technical standards that solar PV systems must meet to ensure they do not disrupt the stability and safety of the grid. This includes requirements for protection devices, metering, and grid synchronization.

   • Costs and Charges: DNOs may levy charges for connection services, reinforcement of the grid, and ongoing maintenance. These costs can vary based on location and the specific requirements of the installation.

To navigate these considerations effectively, it’s crucial for solar PV installers and customers to engage with the DNO early in the planning process. This helps ensure compliance with regulations, smooth connection processes, and avoids unexpected costs or delays.

It shouldn’t be an issue, as long as we comply with our RECC, TRUSTMARK and MCS obligations. It’s always worth having a chat with us before doing this, as currently we can pass on the zero percent VAT advantage. 

Firstly, we can usually find a suitable alternative, so don’t worry too much.

As engineers, we made a decision NOT to fit batteries in lofts. Originally, due to reducing the lifespan of the battery. In large industrial data centres, the back-up battery power supplies (UPS) are housed in strictly temperature controlled plantrooms. This SIGNIFICANTLY increases the lifespan of the batteries. 

Recently the BSI has released PAS 63100:2024 – Protection against fire of battery energy storage systems, where they ADVISE engineers not to install Battery technologies in loft spaces, under stairs, in or next to bedrooms or any escape route (think hallway etc). Although this is currently NOT mandatory, the electrical industry and Insurance companies are advising customers to avoid this type of installation.

More information about PAS 63100:2024 here:

https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/electrical-installations-protection-against-fire-of-battery-energy-storage-systems-for-use-in-dwellings-specification?version=standard 

Solar PV systems are relatively low maintenance. Periodic checks of panel cleanliness and inspection for any shading issues are recommended. Inverter maintenance and system performance checks may also be needed.

We can provide a comprehensive maintenance service and periodic inspections of existing PV Solar systems. 

We can check the health of your system and the power produced is within the expected specification. Just one faulty panel can pull down the total power output of the entire array. 

We check and tighten to the correct (torque) settings  all A/C and D/C connections inside your inverter, batteries and switchgear

As a sustainable energy company, Delmar Technologies Ltd is committed to protecting the environment across every aspect of our work. We fully comply with the UK Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011, ensuring all waste arising from our solar PV, battery storage, and electrical installations is handled responsibly and in accordance with the law.

Our Environmental Practices Include:

• Responsible Waste Handling: All waste generated from installations, including electrical components and packaging, is carefully sorted and managed to prevent harm to the environment.

• Licensed Waste Carriers: We only use registered waste carriers and authorised treatment facilities, maintaining full traceability and legal compliance.

• Maximising Recycling and Reuse: We prioritise recycling and the reuse of materials wherever possible, aligning with the waste hierarchy set out in the regulations.

• Ongoing Compliance: Our waste management policies are regularly reviewed to reflect the latest environmental legislation and best practice standards.

By integrating compliant waste management into our daily operations, Delmar Tech continues to lead by example in the renewable energy sector—delivering clean power while actively reducing environmental impact.