Solar Panels Stornoway
Quick answer
Thinking about solar panels in Stornoway? This guide covers local homes and roofs, weather, grid connection and the system sizes that typically suit Stornoway properties. Island grid capacity is limited, so the network operator may cap how much a home can export. We check this before designing.
Last updated:
Thinking about solar panels in Stornoway? This guide covers local homes and roofs, weather, grid connection and the system sizes that typically suit Stornoway properties. Island grid capacity is limited, so the network operator may cap how much a home can export. We check this before designing. We install through MCS-certified partners, and every quote starts with a no-obligation survey of your home.
Homes and roofs in Stornoway
Stornoway has stone houses near the harbour, post-war council homes, and modern kit houses and crofts spread across Lewis.
Before we design anything, our survey checks roof condition, orientation, pitch and shading. Slate, concrete tile and flat roofs all need different fixings, and older roofs sometimes need repairs first. If your roof is not suitable, we will tell you.
Stornoway weather and solar generation
Lewis is very windy and exposed to Atlantic weather, but enjoys exceptionally long summer days.
The islands and west coast are windy and wet, but midsummer brings close to round-the-clock light in the far north. Equipment must be specified for salt air and high winds.
Grid connection in Stornoway
Stornoway is in the Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) area, which covers the north of Scotland, the Highlands and the islands. Smaller systems, typically up to about 3.68kW per phase, are connected under the G98 process. Larger systems need a G99 application before installation, and in some rural or island areas SSEN may limit how much you can export. We handle this paperwork and design around any limit.
Typical system sizes for Stornoway homes
Homes around Stornoway often have space for a 4kW to 6kW system, and because many are off the gas grid, a battery of around 5kWh to 10kWh helps store daytime generation for the evening. Where export is limited, a larger battery can make more sense than more panels.
We size systems from your actual electricity use and roof space rather than a standard package. Your written quote shows the full price, the equipment and the expected generation for your roof.
VAT and finance
Solar panels and batteries are currently 0% VAT until March 2027 for homes. Finance available, subject to status.
How our survey works
Every project starts with a no-obligation survey. We look at your roof orientation, pitch, shading and condition, your fuse board and meter position, where a battery or inverter could go, and how your household uses electricity through the day and across the Scottish seasons. You then receive a written quote showing the equipment, the expected generation for your roof and the full price, so you can compare it fairly. We handle the network connection paperwork with your local distribution network operator, which is SP Energy Networks in central and southern Scotland and SSEN in the north, Highlands and islands. We install through MCS-certified partners. Solar panels and batteries are 0% VAT until March 2027. Finance available, subject to status.
Frequently asked questions
Do you install solar panels and batteries in Stornoway?
Yes. We arrange solar panel and home battery installations in Stornoway through MCS-certified partners, covering houses, flats with suitable roofs and businesses. A surveyor checks your roof, electrics and usage before we give you a written quote.
Can I add a battery to my existing solar panels?
Usually, yes. Most existing solar systems can take a home battery, either through a hybrid inverter or an AC-coupled battery. The survey checks your current inverter, fuse board and space so we can recommend a battery that suits your system.
Is finance available?
Finance available, subject to status. Your written quote shows the full price, and we can talk you through monthly payment options if you would like to spread the cost.
How do I get a quote?
Call 0141 230 0198 or fill in the quote form. We arrange a survey of your home, then send a written, no-obligation quote showing the equipment, expected generation and full price.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels in Stornoway?
Most rooftop solar on houses is permitted development in Scotland, but listed buildings, conservation areas and flats can need consent from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. We check this during your survey.
Who connects my solar system to the grid in Stornoway?
SSEN is the local network operator. We submit the G98 notification or G99 application for you and check for any export limits.
Will solar panels work on my Stornoway roof in winter?
Panels still generate in winter daylight, but output is much lower than in summer. Most of the yearly generation comes from spring to early autumn, which is why many households add a battery.
Related guides
Get your solar and battery quote
Tell us about your home and we will arrange a survey and a written, no-obligation quote. Finance available, subject to status.