When We Say No: Our Anti-Sales Approach
Quick answer
Not every home suits solar panels. We would rather turn down a job than install a system that will not work well. This page explains the situations where we advise against solar, or suggest a different approach first. We install through MCS-certified partners across Scotland.
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Not every home suits solar panels. We would rather turn down a job than install a system that will not work well. This page explains the situations where we advise against solar, or suggest a different approach first.
Roofs that do not suit
North-facing roofs, heavily shaded roofs and very small roof areas rarely produce enough to be worthwhile. Roofs nearing the end of their life should be repaired or replaced before panels go on.
Homes with other priorities
If a home is cold, draughty or poorly insulated, insulation may be a better first step. For homes planning major roof work or extensions, it is often better to wait.
Unrealistic expectations
We avoid general promises about savings. Your quote shows the full price and expected generation for your roof, and we explain the factors that affect what you get from it.
We install through MCS-certified partners.
Solar on Scottish roofs
Scottish roofs vary more than most. Sandstone tenements in Glasgow and Edinburgh often have natural slate on steep pitches with valley gutters and rear slopes facing back greens. Granite houses in Aberdeen and the north-east frequently have dormers and chimneys that cast shade. Interwar and post-war council-built homes usually have concrete interlocking tiles that are straightforward to work on, while newer estates around Livingston, Dunfermline and Inverness tend to have simple gable roofs that suit a neat array.
Fixings are chosen for the roof covering and for the wind exposure of the site, which matters on the west coast, in the islands and on high ground. A survey also checks the roof timbers and slate condition before any panels go up, because it is far easier to fix a roof problem before an installation than afterwards.
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
What if my roof is unsuitable?
We will tell you, and suggest alternatives such as ground mounts or outbuildings if they exist.
Will you pressure me to buy?
No. The survey and quote come without obligation.
Can I get a second opinion?
Of course. We encourage you to compare quotes.
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.