Solar panels installed correctly — and certified to prove it.

A typical domestic solar PV system for a 3–4 bedroom home costs £4,000–£8,000 depending on system size (typically 4–10 panels), inverter specification and whether battery storage is included. Solar thermal hot water systems typically cost £3,000–£5,000. RCB provides a fixed-price quote following a site survey.

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) is the UK quality standard for small-scale renewable energy installations. Only MCS-certified installations qualify you for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which pays you for surplus electricity exported to the grid. Without MCS certification, your system will not qualify and your insurer may not recognise the installation.

Generation depends on panel count, roof orientation (south-facing is optimal), shading and local climate. A typical 4kWp system on a south-facing roof in London will generate approximately 3,400–3,800 kWh per year, covering 40–70% of an average household's electricity use. RCB provides honest, roof-specific estimates — not inflated sales figures.

In most cases, no. Solar panels on the roofs of dwelling houses are permitted development provided the panels do not protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface and the installation does not exceed the highest point of the existing roof. Properties in conservation areas or listed buildings have additional restrictions. RCB will confirm your position before any work begins.

The SEG requires licensed electricity suppliers to pay you for surplus electricity you export to the national grid. Rates vary by supplier and tariff (typically 1p–15p per kWh exported). You must have an MCS-certified system and a smart meter to register. RCB will guide you through the registration process as part of handover.