All Ecocetera solar PV installations are carried out by qualified, trained and certified installers and electricians.
We can install on commercial or domestic properties, and for new build projects as well as existing buildings. The process is similar for every type of install, and is as follows.
Survey
We can do provisional quotes from plans, dimensions or from Google Earth – but we do need to carry out a full survey on site before we commit to a price or start installing.
The survey involves taking accurate dimensions and readings from the roof, including details of the roof structure so we can calculate wind loadings. We will check the electrical installation and discuss the location of equipment and cable routes with you.
We will also discuss our product range, as some products are more suitable for certain installations than others. Once we have this information, we can provide a detailed quotation together with a roof layout plan.
Installation
We will agree a convenient date or dates to carry out the work. Where scaffolding is required, we will arrange to put this up ahead of our arrival to make sure there are no hold ups on the day. For new build projects, we are happy to use existing scaffolding, so long as it complies with Health & Safety legislation.
Roof Work
Roof work is carried out by our team of experienced roofers and solar PV engineers. Our structural calculations will determine the number of fixings required to hold the frame on the roof securely, and all our fixings are either stainless steel or aluminium to ensure they cannot rust or corrode.
The Panels
The panels are held securely in place by stainless steel clamps, and are then connected via cables to the inverter. We run all cables in UV stable protective conduit so they don’t degrade in the sun, and can’t be accidentally damaged (or nibbled by rodents).
The Inverter
The inverter location will have been agreed with you prior to installation. Best places are cool places with good access – so garages, utility rooms and plant rooms are favourites. Lofts are not great places for inverters unless they are insulated at rafter level – inverters do not like extreme heat, and may turn off or de-rate on hot summer days if they are too warm.
The inverter will be connected to your house or business supply via a consumer unit – either your existing one if there is space for a dedicated circuit for the PV system – or a small one that we will provide and install. We also install isolators so the system can be switched off easily and safely if required, and a generation meter so you can record how much electricity the system produces.
All the electrical side of the installation is carried out by our in-house, NICEIC certified electricians, who have high standards and pay attention to the minutest detail. When the final connection is made, you can start producing solar power straight away.
Administration
This may be the least exciting part of installing a solar PV system, but we will do most of it for you.
We will liaise with the DNO (District Network Operator), and register your system with them. We will also register the installation with Building Control so you have a formal certificate showing compliance (this is important if you ever come to sell the property). We will issue a MCS certificate, which you will need to prove your installation is accredited, and if you ever want to claim export payments.