DIY PV (photovoltaic) solar panels for off-grid installations in the UK
Learn about off-grid PV solar panel systems running in parallel to reduce the import demands of your home or business. Install on a DIY basis or work alongside a local tradesperson.
DIY solar panel systems save on your power demands and may be helpful for renters wanting to take the system away long-term. No export tariff incentives are available with this type of installation.
In a nutshell:
DIY off-grid solar systems are easy to install or work with a local sparky or roofer. Everything is supplied in a 24 Volt 780-2400W self-install kit to create a parallel electrical supply that'll give decades of free power. Health and safety should be the highest priority when self-installing photovoltaic solar panel systems..
Learn more about off-grid systems.
Monocrystalline solar panels.
250-300 Watts.
System sizes: 1-5 kW peak.
1 x Roof fitting kit.*
1 x Inverter.
1 x DC isolator.
1 x Generation meter.
40 Metres 4mm cable.
Connectors.
PV solar panels.
Install a parallel off-grid PV system.
1. A safe working platform with ladders to help protect the roof surface and spread the weight of the installer. Locating the Inverter/Battery Pack next to your planned wire entry area is advisable to keep the wiring length as short as possible.
2. Clamp the aluminum 'horizontal rails' while checking they are square before committing to the final clamp down with additional roofing-grade sealant around the fixing points. The best part of an installation is fixing each photovoltaic panel while connecting in series, routing, and securing the wiring with cable ties. A microfiber cloth is handy to wipe down as you go.
3. Run your wiring down to your Inverter's location and secure it to a wooden board for securing the electrical components and the battery's location.
Enjoy your first cup of tea made with your PV-powered electricity. You've joined a growing army of people who benefit from photovoltaic solar panels.
DIY evacuated solar tubes
Evacuated solar tubes provide hot water for tanks and pools by utilising a secondary coil or heat exchanger. No incentives for this technology. Evacuated tube performance and efficiency are considered exceptional as solar heating technology.
This MCS-approved technology provides a better annual output than traditional flat-plate collectors. Use a safe working scaffolding platform or tower to gutter height for roof work. Uses a local roofing company to handle the roofing work if unsure.
Evacuated solar tubes.
Tank size: 200-350 Litres
1 x 30 Heat-pipe array.
1 x 25 Litre expansion vessel.
1 x Expansion vessel kit.
1 x Controller & pump.
1 x 20 Litres Glycol fluid.
1 x Roof fixing kit.
Connectors.
Twin-coiled tanks.
Tank size: 150-250 Litres
1 x 20 Direct-flow array.
1 x 25 Litre expansion vessel.
1 x Expansion vessel kit.
1 x Controller & pump.
1 x 20 Litres Glycol fluid.
1 x Roof fixing kit.
Connectors.
Twin-coiled tanks.
DIY flat-plate solar panels
Solar heating panels are the grandfather of solar technology. Solar heating systems can be installed by qualified plumbers or is ideal for self-installation. No incentives for this technology.
The first-generation solar heating technology with MCS-approved components and a typical 25-year lifespan. Flat-plate panels can be installed on-roof or integrated within a roof for a Velux-style finish. Use a safe working scaffolding platform or tower to gutter height for roof work. Uses a local roofing company to handle the roofing work if unsure.
Flat-plate panels.
Tank size: 150-220 Litres
1 x Solar heating panel.
1 x 18 Litre expansion vessel.
1 x Expansion vessel kit.
1 x Controller & pump.
1 x 5 Litres Glycol fluid.
1 x On-roof fixing kit.
Connectors.
Twin-coiled tanks.
Tank size: 250-350 Litres
2 x Solar heating panels.
1 x 25 Litre expansion vessel.
1 x Expansion vessel kit.
1 x Controller & pump.
1 x 10 Litres Glycol fluid.
1 x In-roof fixing kit.
Connectors.
Twin-coiled tanks.
Self-install and safety.
When working with heights, electrics, or plumbing, you should always adhere to safety regulations. Use professional MCS PV solar installers if you're not sure. Part P certification is essential when working with both solar heating and electrical systems.
A safe working scaffolding platform or scaffolding tower to gutter height is vital. Uses a local roofing company to handle the roofing work if unsure.
Securing solar panels to the roof.
Both solar heating and PV solar panel installations are secured to the roof batons using non-degradable brackets. No degradable sealing silicone when weatherproofing pipe or wire transition points.
Lifting solar panels to roof height.
Get a scaffolding platform up to the guttering height of the property. A winch and pulley system is available from tool hire shops.
Connecting solar heating pipes.
Professional installers always recommend compression joints. Solar heating technologies become pressurised to a three-bar flow. Because of this, compression joints are vital.
A well-insulated pipe run to and from the solar panel will ensure reduced heat loss and the best performance once operational. A three-yearly inspection, checking the PH level of the antifreeze, seals, and joints will provide peace of mind.
Sizing guide for solar heating panels.
For every 100-150 Litres cylinder size, you'll need one flat panel or two square metres of evacuated tubes.
Look for two unused ports at the bottom of the tank to check for a secondary heat exchanger. A secondary coil is used to transfer glycol fluid from the heating panels to the hot water tank. DIY solar heating kits come supplied with or without 150, 180, 200, 250, and 300 Litres cylinders - vented or unvented.
Sizing guide for PV solar panels.
The number of collectors will dictate the size of the inverter. You can measure the roof space from within the loft space.
Are all roof types suitable?
Yes, except Thatched. Wall-mounted solar heating or ground-mounted A-framed systems are possible with the shortest pipe/wire run into the home. A-frame angle is best at 20 and 50 degrees for optimum performance.
Do I need planning permission?
No, except for listed buildings or areas of outstanding natural beauty.
Stuart Lovatt
Power My Home Solar Panels
Sundial House, Panton Road, Chester CH2 3HX.
How I can help?