Frequently Asked Questions

My boiler needs to be replaced - is this a good time to consider installing solar panels?

Replacing the boiler with a condensing type will save on running costs.  If you have a property where solar panels can be fitted (and they can be fitted to most houses) then it makes economic sense to install them at the same time and maximise the reduction in running costs.  Grant aid may well be available for the solar part of the installation, but unless you qualify because of your age, grants are not available for any boiler replacement.  See our grants page for more details.

Is there enough sun in Scotland to merit installing solar panels?

Many people are under the common misconception that solar energy can only work in conditions of bright sunshine and high temperatures and is therefore unsuited to the Scottish climate.  Solar panels operate on the principle of light absorption and are not dependent on high temperatures or long spells of unbroken sunshine.  A special coating on the absorber ensures that the system is effective even on cloudy days, although clearly the number of hours of daylight mean that solar panels are more effective in the summer months.

Is all this global warming a myth?

The Met Office states that over the last 100 years CO2 concentrations have increased by 30% due mainly to human-induced emissions from fossil fuels. Because CO2 is a greenhouse gas, the increased concentrations have contributed to the recent warming and probably most of the warming over the last 50 years.

The bottom line is that temperature and CO2 concentrations are linked. In recent ice ages, natural changes in the climate (due to orbit changes for example) led to cooling of the climate system. This caused a fall in CO2 concentrations which weakened the greenhouse effect and amplified the cooling. Now the link between temperature and CO2 is working in the opposite direction. Human-induced increases in CO2 is enhancing the greenhouse effect and amplifying the recent warming.

Is planning permission required for solar panels?

In most cases the answer is no, because, provided you are not in a conservation area or occupy a listed building, you can have a "permitted development" where any addition to the roof does not exceed 100mm from the roof plane.  This legislation is currently under review, as some panels slightly exceed this measurement.  For the avoidance of doubt we suggest contacting your local planning department.

Do solar panels require any maintenance?

Solar panels require an annual check of the antifreeze fluid levels which you can do yourself.  Other than that, there are few moving parts and little to go wrong.  Modern boilers require an annual maintenance check to make sure they are working at peak efficiency.