Six or seven years ago, a domestic solar PV system was relatively simple. Panels on the roof, an inverter on the wall, a basic mounting system and a generation meter – job done. Monitoring was limited, design tools were basic and most systems were sized around Feed-in Tariffs (FiT) rather than real household consumption.
Fast forward to 2026 and solar PV has evolved into a highly engineered, data driven energy system. At SolarTherm UK we see daily how the gap between a “solar install” and a professionally designed energy system has never been wider.
Solar Technology Has Moved On – Installers Must Too
Modern solar panels may look similar to older models, but performance has changed dramatically. Today’s premium modules regularly exceed 420-450W, meaning fewer panels can generate significantly more power from the same roof space.
Higher output panels also demand:
- More precise electrical design
- Accurate string sizing
- Careful consideration of roof layouts and shading issues
- Export limitations imposed by the local grid
This is where experience matters.
At SolarTherm UK system design starts with engineering first, not product sales. We design systems around:
- Real household or commercial electricity usage
- Roof structure, pitch and orientation
- Long term reliability and serviceability
- Future expansion (batteries, EV chargers, heat pumps)
Mounting Systems: Still Critical, Often Overlooked
While most solar PV systems are still roof mounted using rails and hooks, modern projects increasingly use in roof integrated systems, especially on new builds and property refurbishments. Flat roof ballast systems have improved, replacing simple console bins with weighted frames, making panels more secure and the overall aesthetic neater.
Solar installers consistently coordinate more with roofers, architects and builders, leaving no margin for error. Weatherproofing, drainage paths, fixing points and tolerances all need to be correct first time.
This is why SolarTherm UK uses trained in house installers, no subcontracted teams that rotate each week. The old “bang in a hook and clamp a panel” approach simply isn’t acceptable anymore.
Grid Approval and DNO Compliance Is Not Optional
Every solar PV system connects to the national electricity network, which means DNO approval is critical. For the majority of our installations, the relevant Distribution Network Operator (DNO) is UK Power Networks.
In 2026 approval is required for any system above 3.68kW per phase, battery storage and export limited or three-phase installations. At SolarTherm UK, we handle the paperwork, submitting the full G99 or G100 documentation and liaising with the DNO on behalf of our customer. Skipping this step risks enforced disconnection – something we simply will not allow our customers to face.
Accurate Design Without Guesswork
Some installers rely on generic calculators or outdated software. Others depend entirely on automated tools. At SolarTherm UK we rely on a mixture of remote assessment and onsite surveys to design the right system for your property. Our designs combine:
- Manufacturer specific performance data
- MCS approved calculation methodologies
- Site specific shading assessments
- Real consumption profiling
- Battery and export limitation modelling
This approach delivers realistic, defensible performance estimates, not optimistic sales figures – and it stands up to scrutiny from surveyors, lenders and compliance bodies. On top of this, at SolarTherm UK, as Gold Members of EPVS, all our estimates are independently verified for accuracy.
Batteries, EVs and Heat Pumps: Integration Is Everything
A modern solar PV system is rarely standalone. In recent years most projects involve battery storage, EV charging, heat pumps or immersion diverters. Advanced monitoring and smart tariffs work alongside your system to increase savings, reduce reliance on the grid and maximise self-consumption. Incorrect configuration can lead to inefficiencies and financial losses. This is why SolarTherm UK treats solar as part of a whole energy system, not a bolt-on product.
Monitoring: If You Can’t See It, You Can’t Optimise It
Installing solar without monitoring is still like driving without a dashboard. Modern systems provide panel level or string level data, with battery charge and discharge tracking. Monitoring platforms let you see your import and export data and generation levels, alerting you to faults and drops in output earlier so issues can be easier resolved. We commission every system fully, ensuring customers can access their data via web portals and apps – and we can remotely support systems when required.
Compliance, Protection and Long Term Accountability
Choosing a solar installer isn’t just about price, it’s about protection, competence and longevity. SolarTherm UK is fully accredited and supported by:
These badges aren’t just for marketing purposes – they ensure we always provide correct system design with consumer protection, technical accountability and transparency and accuracy with your contract and estimates.
Not All Solar PV – or Installers – Are the Same
In short, modern solar PV demands:
- Engineering expertise
- Electrical competence
- IT literacy
- Regulatory knowledge
- Long term responsibility
At SolarTherm UK we design, install and support systems properly – because solar only delivers its full value when every part is done right.
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
