VIRIDIAN

Viridian Solar Panels

Sleek, roof-integrated solar panels
Viridian Solar is a Cambridge-based manufacturer of solar panels, established in 2004. We choose Viridian for their innovative, market-leading roof integrated panels which make for a stylish and sleek upgrade to your property.

Whereas solar panels have traditionally been installed above the roof using racks and brackets, Viridian’s Clearline Fusion panels are designed to replace your existing roof slates, giving a flush and aesthetically pleasing finish to your installation.

This isn’t just about looking good – integrated panels are much more resistant to wind, and with push-fit connections they’re fully weather tight.

But it’s not all style over substance: Viridian’s panels compete with other similarly-priced panels on performance with prices that match traditional above roof installations.

Viridian are our preferred choice for roof integrated solar panels.

 Why go with roof integrated panels?

Besides simply looking better, there are a few important reasons for going with roof integrated panels:

Roof maintenance
It’s likely that your roof will need maintenance at some point during the lifespan of your new solar system. In that situation, above roof systems would need expensive decommissioning and removal to access the roof. With an integrated system there are no tiles behind the panels, so any roofing maintenance work can be done with the system left operational.

Ease of installation
Installing racks for above roof systems can be disruptive and damaging to the roof covering, and weather proofing is required around fixtures and broken tiles. Counterintuitively, a roof integrated system is actually simpler to install as it simply involves removing a patch of roof tiles, and the integrated panels are then fixed with flashing.

Birds & pests
Another big advantage to integrated panels is minimising sheltered space for nesting birds and pests. Roosting birds will foul above roof panels and walls & paths below and homeowners often have to retrofit bird proofing to above roof systems, which further reduces their appeal.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a brand new roof to install integrated panels?
No: our engineers will simply remove the required number of roof tiles in order to accommodate your new panels. The tiles will even be kept intact for future roofing repairs!

Are integrated panels less efficient?
It is true that above roof systems benefit from greater ventilation and that PV efficiency declines as panel temperature rises. However studies have shown that the effect is negligible, around 3%.

 Your solar questions answered

  • What's the Homeco process?

    We begin with an initial, no obligation consultation and property assessment. From there we’ll give you a fixed price quotation. Should you wish to proceed we can usually book the installation within four weeks. Following installation you’ll receive full aftercare to get your system running optimally.

  • What are the best solar panels in the UK?

    We supply a range of solar panel brands. For new build projects we are an accredited Viridian installation company. Their in-roof panels are fire rated to UK standards and sit into the roof giving a sleek and aesthetically pleasing installation.  For existing roofs, we supply all black, tier one companies, such as Trina solar, Jinko and Sunpower.  These brands are known for their high efficiency, durability, and reliability, making them among the best options in the UK market.

  • How many solar panels do I need?

    It all depends on the number of people in your household, your energy consumption, and the available roof space.


    A typical three-bedroom house might have a 3kWh system made up of 7 or 8 tier one all black 430 watt solar panels. Typically, this would be expected to generate around 2,500 – 2,800 kWh per year.


    The most common systems that we install are 4 kWh, comprising around ten tier one all black 430 watt solar panels. Typically, this would be expected to generate around 3,600 kWh – 3,750 kWh per year.

    We customise all our installations to suit your requirements so get in touch now for a free quote.


  • How much do solar panels cost?


    A typical 4 kWh system with ten 430w all black, tier one solar panels might cost between £5,000 - £6,000.


    Precise installation costs vary, for a detailed quotation please get in touch.

  • How much do home batteries cost?

    We supply a number of leading battery systems. Our industry leading 13.4kWh Tesla Powerwall 2 with backup gateway currently costs around £7,000 to £7,500. Homeco Energy has been an authorised Tesla dealer since 2013.


    We also supply systems from UK company, Givenergy. They have a range of batteries starting from £2,500 for a 2.5kWh battery system, up to £6,000 for a 9.5kWh storage system.

  • What are the benefits of a home battery system?

    Our battery systems allow you to store excess solar energy to use in the evening, when typical usage is higher.


    You can also charge the battery from the grid, allowing you to make use of lower rates from off-peak tariffs


    The Tesla Powerwall has an automatic backup facility that allows you to keep the power on during a power cut. The Givenergy battery has an optional backup facility that can be added to the installation.


  • How much electricity can I save with solar panels?

    A typical solar system can save between 50 and 70% on your energy bills. The precise numbers depend on your energy usage, electricity prices, the system size, and the orientation of your roof. For a south-facing roof based in and around Sheffield, a 4kWp solar PV array made up of ten, all black, tier one solar panels, would be expected to generate around 3,805 kWh per year.


    For a precise estimate and quotation please get in touch. 


  • How long until my solar panels break even?

    Your precise break-even point will vary according to system size, cost, energy consumption and tariff rate but during 2023, on average, you can expect to recover your installation costs from between 7 – 12 years domestically and 3-5 years for a larger commercial installation (12kWp-100kWp).


    We can provide more specific estimates based on your situation, please get in touch for a quotation.

  • What happens if anything goes wrong?

    We provide warranties and ongoing support for all our solar installations. This includes servicing and addressing any issues post-installation.  All of our installations come with a ten year insurance backed installation warranty. 

  • Can you install solar panels on a flat roof?

    Yes, solar panels can be installed on flat roofs, with specific mounting systems to optimise their efficiency.  

  • Do solar panels work on a north, north-west or east facing roof?

    Solar panels are most efficient on south-facing roofs, but they can also be installed on roofs facing other directions, though the efficiency and output will vary.


    Get in touch to book a free property assessment.

 More questions? Get in touch today for expert, no-pressure advice:

Want solar PV panels installed in your home?
Contact Homeco Energy, Sheffield.
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