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Solar panels and battery storage: your questions answered

Answers to the questions we hear most

These are the questions Scottish homeowners ask us most often about solar panels, home battery storage, smart tariffs, surveys, installation, costs and grants. If you can't find what you're looking for here, please get in touch — we're happy to help, and there's no obligation.

Frequently asked questions

Is the survey really free?

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Yes. The survey and quote are completely free and there is no obligation to proceed. We arrange the survey so you can understand your options — what happens next is entirely up to you.

Who carries out the installation?

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We arrange the free survey and quote. The installation itself is carried out by our MCS-certified partner. We install through MCS-certified partners, so the system is fitted to a recognised industry standard.

Do you cover all of Scotland?

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We arrange free surveys and quotes for homeowners across Scotland, from the Borders and Central Belt to the Highlands, the North East, Fife, Tayside and the island communities. Send us your postcode and we will confirm whether we can arrange a survey for your home.

Is there 0% VAT on solar panels and batteries?

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Yes. Solar panels and home battery storage benefit from 0% VAT until 31 March 2027. This applies to the supply and installation of eligible equipment for residential properties, and your quote will reflect the 0% rate.

Is there a grant for solar panels or batteries in Scotland?

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No grant is available for solar panels or home battery storage through this service. A Scottish Government heat pump grant up to £7,500 (up to £9,000 for eligible rural homes), subject to eligibility, is available for heat pumps only. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme applies to England and Wales only.

Do you offer finance or payment plans?

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Loans are available, subject to status. We can discuss spreading the cost in plain terms once you have your survey and quote. We do not quote specific loan amounts or interest rates on this site, as what is available depends on your circumstances and the lender.

How much do solar panels cost in Scotland?

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The cost depends on your roof size, the number of panels, the battery capacity you choose and any electrical work needed. Because every home is different we arrange a free survey and provide a written quote that reflects your actual property, with 0% VAT applied until 31 March 2027.

Will solar panels work in Scotland's climate?

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Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sunshine, and they work effectively in Scotland's climate. Long summer days can produce a substantial amount of generation, and pairing panels with a battery lets you store surplus for use in the evening and overnight.

How long does the survey take?

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A typical home survey takes around an hour, depending on the size and complexity of the property. The surveyor checks the roof, loft, electrical setup and available space for a battery, and will answer any questions you have on the day.

Do I have to make a decision on the day of the survey?

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No. The survey and quote are free and there is no obligation to proceed. You receive a written quote to consider in your own time. We want you to make the right decision for your circumstances, not a rushed one.

How long does an installation take?

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Most residential solar and battery installations are completed within a few days, depending on the size of the system and any electrical work required. Scaffolding is usually erected a day or two before the installation and removed afterwards.

What is a smart tariff and why does it matter?

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A smart tariff is an electricity tariff that uses your smart meter to charge different rates at different times of day, typically with cheaper off-peak periods. With a battery, you can charge overnight on a cheaper rate and use that stored electricity during the day or evening, when your panels may not be generating.

Can I add a battery later if I just have solar panels now?

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In many cases a battery can be added to an existing solar installation, though it depends on your inverter and setup. The survey can advise on whether your system would be battery-ready, so you have the option to expand in future.

What does MCS certification mean?

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MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) is an industry-recognised quality scheme for small-scale renewable installations. Installation by an MCS-certified contractor means the work meets a recognised standard. We install through MCS-certified partners.

Do you install on flats and tenements?

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We can advise on flats and tenements, though shared ownership of the roof and access are important considerations. The survey covers these points so you understand what is and isn't possible before deciding anything.

How do I arrange a free survey?

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Fill in the short form on our free quote page or call us on 0141 230 0198. We take a few basic details and arrange the survey at a time that suits you. It takes about two minutes to get started.

Still have a question?

If your question isn't covered above, the easiest thing to do is pick up the phone or send us a message. We'd rather you ask than wonder, and we're always happy to talk through how solar, battery storage and smart tariffs could work for your home — with no pressure and no obligation.

We arrange free surveys and quotes; installation is by our MCS-certified partner. Loans available, subject to status.

Ready for your free survey?

Arrange a free, no-obligation survey and quote for solar panels, battery storage or a smart tariff. It takes two minutes and there's no pressure.

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