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| The solar panels installed on the east and west sides of the garage roof |
With the drumbeat of climate change underscored by the scherzo of higher energy prices, I took the decision in January to add solar panels to the roof of the garage at Old Swan House. After some research, I contacted Project Solar, who appeared to have a good reputation and a substantial organisation, and was visited by Steve Gibson, an experienced project planner, who spent several hours over two visits to scope the site and provide a detailed quote.
He recommended the maximum capacity available - a 5.8kw capacity system and battery using 15 of the latest monocystalline solar panels on both sides of the garage roof. The garage is over 50 yards from the house (and so isn't subject the listed building regulation) and can only be seen from the garden or the lane, and isn't visible from either of my neighbour's houses, so it doesn't intrude or alter anyone's view. Having contacted the Parish Council who confirmed informally that they could see no objection on planning grounds, I accordingly ordered the system, which was installed over two days, being completed on 10th March 2022.
The installation team of Phil, Craig and Chris were experienced and worked quickly, but there was a delay in the supply of the panel mounts. Nevertheless the team needed most or the two days to dig the trench across the drive and part of the garden and lead the cable though the house to the fuse-board by the front door. Phil, the electrician, said it was one of the most challenging runs he had done, as the result of the age of the house and the complexity of its construction. Indeed, the panels weren't installed until 3pm on the second day and were completed at night. The system has worked perfectly from that time and is now producing over 20kw energy a day, which feeds the house, the battery and then the grid. As the days get longer, it should produce at least 25kw a day and fill the battery to capacity so that its energy can be used at night.
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