You’ve Received a Solar Panel Quotation – What’s Next?

How to Decide Which Quote is the Best

When searching for solar panels in Essex, Kent, London and the surrounding South East, most homeowners will request several quotes, from different companies before making a decision. This is a smart approach and at SolarTherm UK we believe comparing different installers, systems and quotes allows you to find the best system for your property.

Once the solar quotation lands in your inbox, the real work begins: evaluating costs, payback periods, quality and long term benefits. At SolarTherm UK we want to guide you through the essential steps to take after receiving a solar panel quote so you can make an informed and confident investment.

The Digital Approach

Is an Online Solar Quote Really Convenient?

With everything going digital, many homeowners are now preferring to request their solar quotations online. It’s not only more convenient, it can also save you time and money. Traditionally, a site inspection was required where an adviser visited your home to assess your roof and discuss system options.

Requesting an online solar quote removes this step entirely. Using advanced satellite imagery, your roof can be assessed remotely with precision. You can instantly visualise the potential roof layout and system size without lifting a finger and best of all, your solar quote is 100% free and no obligation.

At SolarTherm UK, we can offer you either option depending on your preference. Our solar advisers are more than happy to visit your property and answer any questions you may have or we can carry out a remote feasibility study via online imagery.

A Smooth Online Process

The UK solar industry has expanded rapidly, offering homeowners a huge variety of installers, equipment and finance options. With so many companies competing for your business, solar quotations can vary widely in price and quality, with each one telling you why you should choose them. The cheapest solar quote is not always the best and the next section of this article will explain why.

More Than Just a Price Tag

A solar PV system is a long term investment, one that should last you a minimum of 25 years (and with most modern solar panels performing efficiently up to 40 years you should be thinking even longer term). Over that time, performance, reliability and efficiency matter far more than simply going for the cheapest deal.

If you receive an usually low quotation for solar panels, it may indicate:

• Lower grade solar panels
• Shorter warranty periods
• Less efficient components
• Poor customer service and aftercare
• Inexperienced or non-accredited installer

Choosing purely on price can compromise on your long term results and returns. At SolarTherm UK, we always recommend weighing cost against quality, warranty and installer reputation.

What Should You Be Looking for in a Solar Panel Quote?

A detailed solar quotation should provide a full breakdown of cost, energy yield, payback period, equipment quality and system layout. When comparing multiple quotes in Essex, Kent or London focus on the following:

1. Solar Panel Data – each solar panel has a rated peak output (Wp), usually ranging between 200Wp and 450Wp. Higher Wp panels tend to deliver greater energy yields but slightly lower Wp panels can be beneficial when roof space is limited as they tend to be smaller. A good solar quote should clearly explain the panel size, panel output and total system Wp. At SolarTherm UK, our quotes contain the data sheet for your chosen solar panels, providing all the information you need to know about performance, life expectancy, warranty and output.
2. Payback Period – for many homeowners, this is the most important factor. A good solar quotation should include estimated annual savings, expected payback timeframe and long term ROI projections. Cheaper systems often appear to offer quicker payback, but poor performance and lower quality can reduce real world savings and long term ROI projections. Keep an eye out for inflated estimates, at SolarTherm UK our quotes and estimates are verified by EPVS (Energy Performance Validation Scheme), an independent third party who checks our quotes to ensure they are accurate and not over inflated.
3. Solar Panel Warranty – your solar panels will be on your roof for decades so you need a solid warranty. At SolarTherm UK we install Bovill.tech all black solar panels which come with an industry leading 40 year performance warranty and 99 year product warranty, giving you greater peace of mind over the system’s lifetime.

Other Key Things to Check in Your Solar Quotation

A reliable solar quote should also detail the brands and components included. Look for reputable manufacturers. Your solar panels, inverter and mounting equipment should all be MCS certified, ensuring the components are of high quality, offering better efficiency and meeting UK safety standards.

Things to Consider When Quote Hunting

Before choosing between multiple solar quotes, consider the following essential points:

• Installer Reputation – check for MCS accreditation, positive reviews, local experience and a proven track record.
• What’s Included – and What Isn’t – not all quotes cover the same things, look for clarity on scaffolding, aftercare, monitoring systems, battery options and additional products. Is bird proofing included? Is scaffolding an additional cost on top of the quote? Does the quote include all paperwork and DNO applications?
• Long Term Support – solar is a long term investment, of a minimum of 25 years, you should choose an installer who will still be around if you need them.
• Energy Forecast Accuracy – be wary of quotes promising unrealistically high returns. A genuine forecast should be based on your property, allowing for roof angle, orientation, shading and local climate data. Using an installer that has their quotes verified by EPVS ensures accuracy and trustworthy estimates.
• Price Transparency – a trustworthy quote is clear, itemised and easy to understand. Watch out for hidden fees and features that aren’t included.

Ready to Get a Solar Quote in Essex, Kent or London?

SolarTherm UK offers fast, accurate solar quotations using cutting edge digital tools and site visits, depending on your preference. Our experienced team provides honest advice, premium products and long term support you can rely on.

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.