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Solar Panels

SOL POWER at Solar & Storage Live in Birmingham

Writer's picture: SOL POWERSOL POWER

Updated: Oct 1, 2024



This week, we headed up to the NEC in Birmingham for Solar & Storage Live, the UK's largest solar trade show. The event provided an excellent opportunity to explore the latest innovations in the solar market, reconnect with our manufacturer partners, network with fellow installers, and attend insightful talks by industry experts on future changes impacting the UK solar sector.


Key Highlights from the Event:


Upcoming Changes to the MCS Certification

Changes are on the horizon for the MCS solar certification, aimed at addressing the issue of "cowboy" installers who, despite being MCS-certified, consistently deliver subpar installations. As we’ve previously been called in to rectify poor installations, we understand how a more direct MCS engagement with homeowners can help eliminate these unscrupulous operators.


Not All Solar Panels Are Created Equal

We spent time with the UK team from AIKO, learning about their NeoStar 470 Wp residential panels. These panels stand out for their innovative design, which moves connections to the back, maximizing energy capture from diffuse light. Although these panels come at a premium, their superior efficiency makes them a worthwhile investment for long-term energy gains.


Budget Solar and Battery Offerings

As GivEnergy installers, we've been impressed with their robust products, long warranties, and reliable support. However, we took a close look at their no-frills POLAR ESS inverter and battery system at the event. While affordability is key to driving wider adoption of solar, the system's shorter warranty, lower build quality, and IP rating raise concerns about its longevity. We worry this could be a case of false economy.


Financing Solar Installations

With mortgages, credit cards, and car leasing being common household financial tools, why not apply the same approach to solar? We met with Hometree, whose "Solar Plan" allows homeowners to install solar without any upfront costs, with monthly repayments offset by the savings generated from the system. While this model may not suit everyone, it certainly provides a compelling option for making solar more accessible.





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