Home Solar PV Systems

Domestic solar systems can take various forms depending on your house and your requirements. Our easy to follow guide explains the differences between the major types of PV system.

Type Advantages Disadvantages
On-Roof On Roof Solar PV
  • Can retrofit
  • Good value for money
  • Natural ventilation
  • No planning permission needed
  • Most efficient system
  • Difficult for planning permission in conservation areas
  • Not an integrated design
In-Roof In Roof Solar PV
  • Integrated with roof
  • Less visual impact
  • Lies flush with roof
  • Good value for money
  • Re-roof not required
  • More expensive than on-roof
  • Solar panels visible
PV Tiles Solar PV Tiles
  • No planning permission required
  • Preferred by planning authorities
  • Easy to fit
  • Reduced visual impact
  • Planning required for conservation areas
  • Expensive
  • Re-roof required
  • Slightly less efficient than on-roof PV
Flat Roof Flat Roof Solar PV
  • Can be aligned for optimum output
  • Natural ventilation
  • Does not require re-roof
  • Comparable efficiency with on-roof PV
  • Requires planning permission
  • Frame costs extra
  • Extra weight on building from frame
Ground Ground-Based Solar PV
  • Not limited by roof size
  • Aligned for optimum output
  • No roof needed
  • Larger systems possible
  • Always require planning permission
  • Electrical trenching required
MCS Approved Contractor REA NICEIC Approved Contractor Sanyo Solar Premium Installer
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