Solar Panels For New Builds

Discover solar panels for new builds: benefits, costs, and essential factors. Use our calculator for tailored solutions.

Toby
February 14, 2024
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In this article, we will explore the benefits and considerations of installing solar panels for newly built properties. Additionally, we’ll explore how MakeMyHouseGreen's solar panel calculator can help you assess the suitability of your home and showcase potential savings.

Solar Panel Installation For New Builds

When it comes to installing solar panels on new builds, MakeMyHouseGreen offers a specialised and streamlined process. But before you get the ball rolling, it's essential to have the right information. Our solar panel calculator provides 96% accurate data specific to your property, including annual solar energy output, potential savings on energy bills, the exact number of panels required, and the total cost for panels and installation. This ensures you're well-informed and prepared for the installation process.

If you choose to move ahead with your solar panel installation, we have accredited installers located across the UK who could install your solar panels in under 6 weeks. 

The Benefits of Solar Panels for New Homes

The installation of solar panels offers multiple benefits for you and your property. The two key ones are:

- Financial Savings: One of the most compelling reasons to opt for solar panels on new builds is the substantial reduction in electricity costs. The average UK solar household saves an estimated £700-900 a year from their 4kW system. For example, a typical house with solar panels in Norwich can look forward to seeing a significant drop in energy bills. It varies, but the average household saves a tidy £1,295.

- Environmental Impact: The average UK household can save approximately 900kg of carbon emissions every year by opting for solar panels. 

Factors to Consider When Installing Solar Panels on New Builds

1. Roof Space and Orientation

When considering the installation of solar panels on new builds, two crucial aspects are roof space and orientation. The first step involves carefully assessing the roof's size and layout, determining how many solar panels can be placed on it without causing overcrowding or weighing the roof down too much. 

Equally important is the roof's orientation. In the UK, south-facing roofs are typically the most effective for solar panel installations due to their optimal exposure to sunlight. However, roofs facing east or west can also yield significant energy production, especially when angled correctly to capture morning or afternoon sunlight. For a more detailed breakdown, we’d recommend our guide on the best directions for solar panels in the UK.

2. Structural Strength and Suitability

For new builds, structural strength typically isn't an issue as these properties should have robust roofs. However, it's always worth double-checking to prevent any surprises down the line. MakeMyHouseGreen’s team is here to assist you in evaluating your roof's suitability for solar panels, ensuring it can support their weight and integrates well with your home’s design. 

For more in-depth information, we recommend exploring our guide on whether your roof is suitable for solar panels.

3. Determining Panel Quantity Based on Energy Needs

Assessing your home's energy use is key to figuring out how many and what type of solar panels you need for your new build. This means looking at how much energy your household uses to make sure the solar system can cover it. It's also important to think about how the solar panels look on your house. You want them to work well and look good too, fitting in nicely with your home's style.

You won’t need a precise energy usage figure but an educated estimation will help us provide you with better, more accurate figures and recommendations.

A row of houses with solar panels on them

Leveraging MakeMyHouseGreen’s Expertise

Our solar panel calculator can significantly simplify this process by offering customised recommendations based on your new build's specifics. With the expert guidance of our Green Home Gurus, you can make informed decisions about solar panel installation, ensuring optimal energy production and integration with your new home’s design.

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost for New Builds?

The cost of solar panels, while varying, generally falls within a range that makes them a financially viable option. For a smaller 3kW solar system, prices can range from £6,000 to £7,000, and for a larger 6kW system, the cost can go up to £9,000, excluding the addition of a battery. 

These costs are influenced by factors such as the system size, whether a battery is included, the type of inverters used, and the complexity of the installation. With a 3kW system, you could save between £600 to £800 annually, while a 4kW system could save £700 to £900, and a 6kW system could lead to savings of £900 to £1,100 per year. 

A solar panel system is an investment that pays for itself - not only could it increase the value of your property by around 4% (according to Rightmove), but the savings it helps you make will cover the costs of the panels in around 8-10 years (on average).

For a detailed breakdown of costs, use our free tool.

Plan Your Solar Journey with MakeMyHouseGreen

As you consider the benefits and costs of solar panels for your new build, remember that MakeMyHouseGreen is here to assist you every step of the way. Our expert team and comprehensive resources are designed to make your transition to solar energy as smooth and efficient as possible.

Why Choose MakeMyHouseGreen

1) Expert Guidance: Our Green Home Gurus offer personalised advice tailored to your specific needs.

2) Solar Panel Calculator: Use our free tool to get an accurate estimate of your solar panel requirements, potential savings, and payback period.

3) Comprehensive Resources: Explore our extensive green guides for more insights into sustainable living solutions.

Start your journey to sustainable energy today with MakeMyHouseGreen, and transform your new build into an eco-friendly haven. Remember to use our solar panel calculator and explore more of our green guides.

Helping make the journey as smooth as possible enabling people to go green.