Question 1

Do solar panels work in Dumfries & Galloway?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Modern panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sun. Dumfries & Galloway receives enough daylight hours for a solar system to be worthwhile. A survey confirms your property's potential.

Question 2

Which DG postcodes do you cover?

Accepted Answer

All of them. We cover every DG postcode from DG1 (Dumfries central) through to DG16 (Gretna), including Thornhill, Sanquhar, Dalbeattie, Kirkcudbright, Castle Douglas, Newton Stewart, Stranraer, Moffat, Lockerbie, Annan, and Langholm.

Question 3

Is my roof suitable for solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Most roofs in D&G are suitable. South-facing is ideal, but east-west orientations also work well. The key factors are roof pitch, available space, and shading from chimneys, trees, or nearby hills. A no-obligation survey confirms suitability.

Question 4

How long does solar installation take?

Accepted Answer

The actual installation is typically completed in one day. The full process from first call to switch-on usually takes 2–3 weeks, depending on survey availability and SP Distribution DNO approval times for larger systems.

Question 5

Do I need planning permission for solar panels in D&G?

Accepted Answer

Most residential solar installations in Dumfries & Galloway do not require planning permission under permitted development rights. Exceptions include listed buildings and some properties in conservation areas, such as parts of Castle Douglas or Kirkcudbright.

Question 6

What is the Smart Export Guarantee?

Accepted Answer

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) pays you for surplus electricity your solar panels export to the grid. Your installer partner registers you with an energy supplier after installation. Export rates vary by supplier, so it is worth comparing SEG tariffs.

Question 7

Should I add a battery to my solar system?

Accepted Answer

For most D&G homes, yes. A battery stores surplus solar electricity for use in the evening, reducing the amount you buy from the grid. This is especially valuable for rural properties with high grid dependency. Fox ESS and Duracell options are available.

Question 8

How does 0% VAT work for solar installations?

Accepted Answer

0% VAT applies to solar panel and battery installations until March 2027. It is applied automatically by your installer — no application needed.

Question 9

What happens if I move house after installing solar?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels typically increase a property's value and can be a selling point. The panels stay with the property when you sell. The MCS certificate and any remaining warranty transfers to the new owner.

Question 10

Are Dumfries & Galloway Solar an installer?

Accepted Answer

No. We are a renewable energy consultancy. Dumfries & Galloway Solar is a trading name of Scot Energy Efficiency Ltd, company number 17408629. We connect D&G homeowners with our pre-vetted network of MCS-certified installation partners. All physical installation is carried out by our partner network.

Question 11

Can I add solar panels to an existing heat pump system?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Solar panels and heat pumps work well together. The solar panels generate electricity during the day, which can power the heat pump, reducing the amount you buy from the grid. A battery maximises this by storing surplus solar for evening heating.

Question 12

What size solar system do I need for a D&G home?

Accepted Answer

The right system size depends on your roof area, daytime electricity use, and whether you are adding a battery. A typical D&G household benefits from a system sized to match daytime consumption. Your surveyor recommends the best size after assessing your roof and energy use during the no-obligation survey.

Question 13

Can I install solar panels on a flat roof in D&G?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Flat roof solar installations use mounting frames that angle the panels toward the south. This is common on modern extensions and some commercial buildings across Dumfries & Galloway. The surveyor assesses roof loading and wind exposure during your survey.

Question 14

Do solar panels need maintenance in D&G?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels require very little maintenance. Rainfall in Dumfries & Galloway naturally keeps panels clean. An occasional visual check and ensuring no new shading from tree growth is usually sufficient. The monitoring app shows generation data so you can spot any issues quickly.

Question 15

What is the difference between G98 and G99 DNO notification?

Accepted Answer

G98 is a notification for standard residential solar systems up to 3.68 kW per phase. G99 is an application required for larger systems. SP Distribution is the DNO for Dumfries & Galloway. Our installer partners handle all DNO paperwork on your behalf as part of the installation.

Question 16

Can I get solar panels on a listed building in D&G?

Accepted Answer

Listed buildings require listed building consent for solar panel installation. In some cases, roof-integrated panels or placement on a non-visible roof slope may be permitted. Conservation area properties in Castle Douglas and Kirkcudbright may have similar restrictions. A surveyor advises on what applies to your property.

Solar Panel FAQs — Dumfries & Galloway

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