Solar Installation and Battery Storage
Devon Solar specialists – save money on bills, environmentally-friendly, energy independence.
Battery Storage schemes can save you money even without a full solar install.
Solar Installation Explained
Paul’s Notes:
We (Mike) now or soon has the video testimonial for this solar job, Mr and Mrs Cudlipp. The time lapse looks good.
I have sent Chris Batchelor, Combe Martin a message requesting his help with a video testimonial a solar and battery storage job our 1st one done in and also Andy Downie, Ilfracombe we did battery storage for. We are also starting a new solar job in Croyde soon just had the go ahead on. I will If I can get video footage etc on these too.
There’s a lack of understanding generally I think among customers about the fact that they can make or save money with batteries alone even if they cant have solar panels or can’t afford them, maybe we can make a specific highlight of this point somewhere?
What are the benefits of Solar?
Save money on Bills
Generate your own clean energy and reduce or eliminate your dependency on the grid, lower monthly bills and get payments back from your energy supplier in the form of The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). This is a government scheme in the UK that pays homeowners and businesses for the surplus renewable electricity they generate and export back to the National Grid.
Environmentally Friendly
Contribute to a greener planet via renewable energy sources, reducing your carbon footprint.
Energy Independence
Store excess energy for use during peak times/emergencies, ensuring continuous power. Store power at cheap rate tariffs and use in peak rate times to save money even without solar.
Solar Installation - The Process
Solar FAQS
How much will a solar panel system cost?
The cost of a solar PV system depends on factors like system size, battery storage, and installation complexity. A typical domestic system in North Devon ranges from £5,000 to £12,000, while larger installations or battery storage options will increase costs. We provide free, no-obligation quotes tailored to your needs. Currently there is NO VAT on Solar installations.
How much can I save on my electricity bills?
Savings depend on your energy usage and system size. On average, a well-sized solar system can reduce electricity bills by 30-50%.
Further savings are possible if you:
- Add battery storage
- Optimise self-consumption, i.e. use energy during sunny periods, or by diverting solar energy into a hot water tank or EV.
When we quote for a job, in line with MCS rules we will calculate estimated savings for you.
Will I still need to pay for electricity?
Yes, but significantly less.
Solar panels work best in daylight hours, so at night, or during low solar generation, you may still draw power from the grid unless you have battery storage. With enough solar and battery storage you can achieve grid independence.
Can I sell excess electricity back to the grid?
Yes, through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) you can earn money for the electricity you export.
Rates vary by supplier, so we can advise on the best tariff available. Currently Octopus Energy offer the best tariffs but this landscape is constantly changing so is always best to check.
How long do solar panels last?
Most solar panels have a 25-year performance warranty and can last 30 years or more with minimal maintenance.
Inverters typically need replacing after 10-15 years, while batteries last 10+ years, depending on usage. Solar panels will need to be kept clean for maximum power generation.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
For most domestic properties in North Devon, solar panel installations fall under Permitted Development, meaning you don’t need planning permission.
However, exceptions apply for listed buildings or conservation areas, where approval may be required. It is advisable to check with your local council.
How long does installation take?
A typical residential solar panel system is installed in 1-2 days, while larger systems with battery storage may take 3-4 days. We provide full project timelines before starting any work.
What happens on cloudy days?
Solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy days, but at a reduced efficiency. Battery storage helps maximise solar energy use by storing excess power for when it is needed.
How do payments work for a solar installation?
In line with MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) guidelines and RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) regulations, we follow a structured payment plan to protect both parties:
- 25% deposit upfront to secure materials and book the installation.
- 35% payment when work begins on-site.
- Final 40% upon completion of the installation and system handover.
A signed contract is provided before any work starts, ensuring full transparency. This process is fully regulated to protect you as a customer, giving peace of mind that your installation meets industry standards and consumer protection regulations.
What is the payback period for a solar panel system?
The payback period depends on your system size, energy usage, and electricity prices. On average, a well-sized solar PV system in North Devon has a payback period of six to ten years.
After the payback period, your system will continue to generate free electricity for 20+ years, providing long-term savings and protection from energy price rises.
Can I use my solar battery for backup power during a power cut?
Yes and no. Not all battery storage systems provide backup power by default.
If you want Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) capability, your system needs to be designed with a hybrid inverter and a backup circuit to power essential appliances during an outage. All our installations are capable of this function.
Should I go with a national solar company instead of a local installer?
While national solar companies often advertise cheap upfront prices, there are important factors to consider before choosing them over a local, independent installer like P D Electrical Services (SW) Ltd:
- ❌ Sales-Driven Approach – many large companies use high-pressure sales tactics, locking customers into finance agreements with hidden fees or inflated long-term costs.
- ❌ One-Size-Fits-All Installs – national firms often use generic system designs rather than tailoring installations to your specific roof, energy usage, and future needs.
- ❌ Subcontracted Work – instead of their own in-house teams, most large solar companies subcontract installations to third-party electricians, meaning quality can be inconsistent.
- ❌ Poor Aftercare & Support – many customers report difficulties with after-sales service, warranty claims, or even reaching the company once the install is complete.
- ❌ Cutting Corners – some national firms rush installations to meet sales targets, leading to poorly-secured panels, unsafe wiring, or undersized inverters that don’t perform as expected.
Our Work
Solar - Our Approach
This box should explain how PD approach Solar and Battery installs and the benefits of this approach.
Similar to the FAQ answer above, it should carefully address the issues of national “sales-driven” companies versus experienced local installers that know the terrain and the likely issues, plus can offer proper aftercare and support.
Our Reviews
Paul’s knowledge and expertise really stood out, which gave me complete confidence in the work being done. My main problem was the fuse box constantly tripping and cutting power to several circuits at once. Paul recommended upgrading to a modern RCBO consumer unit, which has been the perfect solution — now each circuit is individually protected. This has made a huge difference, especially as I work from home and can’t afford interruptions to my computer equipment.
The new setup gives me real peace of mind knowing everything is up to date, safe, and reliable. I hadn’t even heard of an RCBO before, but now I wouldn’t want to be without one. I’d happily use PD Electrical again and highly recommend Paul for anyone needing a trustworthy, knowledgeable electrician.
Paul came on the afternoon of my call , and provided me with an estimate for installing a EV Charger and upgrading my Electric fuse box. Four days later Charlie & Ryan attended and completed both jobs. The quality of their work was first class, and at a better price than my previous estimates!
An excellent company I strongly recommend!
Very different from a previous experience with an electrician - long wait to get the job done and not done efficiently.
Paul and his team did everything perfectly. We will use him in future for any electrical jobs.
I would without reservation highly recommended him.
Review edit January 2025- having had occasion to rely on Paul's after sales services I agree with his claims for customer care and reliability, Paul can be totally trusted to deliver as promised.
Had a quote for another job was booked in on a day and time that worked for us
Pd electrical turned up done the job very professional everything was left clean and tidy rubbish taken away
PD ELECTRICAL highly recommended
Charlie from PD arrived on time to carry out the work, he was polite, cheerful and a pleasure to have in the house (this has not always been the case with previous contractors!) Everything was completed to agreed spec and care was taken throughout not to leave any mess or cause disruption. I chatted with Paul about our fusebox and some other requirements and he gave me considered, helpful responses which encouraged me to return in future for additional works.
My day job involves encouraging my clients to "go the extra mile" for their customers and it was great to see this in action with Paul. Highly recommended, well done!
Contact Us
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PD Electrical
We help homeowners in Barnstaple, Bideford and Ilfracombe upgrade the electrics in their home, garden or renovation without being taken for a ride, let down or left in a mess.
Our promise to you
- Clear Fixed Prices
- Fully Certified Work
- Electrical Installation Certificates
- Full Safety Checks
- Full-quality promise
Areas Covered
- Barnstaple
- Bideford
- Braunton
- Ilfracombe
