As part of our case study series, we are sharing details of real installations we have completed across the UK. Each one highlights the system design, installation process, and expected results. This example is from Preston, where we carried out a Solar Panel Installation in Preston for a customer who wanted to generate their own electricity and benefit from modern battery storage.
The system includes 12 DMEG 450w panels, giving a total size of 5.4kW, along with a Fox hybrid inverter and 7.5kWh of battery storage. Based on the customer’s usage and the property’s roof, the system is expected to generate around 4,660kWh per year and provide a financial benefit of about £1,100 annually. The estimated payback point is year five.
Planning the system
The first step was to complete a detailed survey of the property in Preston. The roof had a good pitch and orientation, and there was enough clear space to fit twelve panels without obstruction. Some nearby shading was checked during the site visit, but nothing significant was found that would affect performance.
Choosing the right panels is always important. For this system, DMEG 450w panels were recommended. They are efficient panels that perform well in UK conditions and provide strong output for their size. By using these panels, we were able to reach a total capacity of 5.4kW, which was a good fit for the customer’s typical usage.
Installation details
The system was installed over the course of a few days, with the panel mounting and wiring completed first. The panels were fitted securely to the roof using appropriate mounting kits, ensuring all fixings were made watertight and structurally sound.
For the storage side, the customer opted for a Fox hybrid inverter with 7.5kWh of battery capacity. The hybrid setup keeps the system neat, as the inverter is designed to manage both the solar generation and the battery charging in one unit. This reduces complexity and improves efficiency.
The battery was installed in the loft at the customer’s request. This is not unusual, as lofts often provide a convenient and unobtrusive space for equipment. During the survey, we checked access, ventilation, and the structural support before confirming it was a suitable location.
Expected output and savings
With 12 panels at 450w each, the system can deliver a peak of 5.4kW. Over the year, this is expected to generate around 4,660kWh of electricity.
Based on current energy prices and SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) payments for exported energy, the system should provide around £1,100 in combined benefits each year. This comes partly from reducing grid imports and partly from payments for sending excess electricity back to the grid.
At this level, the installation is expected to pay for itself by around year five. After that point, the electricity generated is effectively free, aside from any minor maintenance that may be required over the long term.
Everyday benefits
The combination of solar generation and battery storage makes the biggest difference to the customer. Without a battery, much of the daytime generation would have been exported, as the household is often out during working hours. With the Fox battery, that energy can now be stored for later use.
In practical terms, this means the customer is drawing very little from the grid in the evening, which is when most households use the most electricity. Over time, this adds up to significant savings.
The system also provides flexibility in the winter months. The hybrid inverter can be programmed to charge the battery from the grid on a cheaper overnight tariff. The stored energy can then be used during the daytime peak, when rates are higher. This helps keep costs down even when the sun is weaker.
The Fox system includes monitoring through a mobile app, so the customer can see in real time how much electricity is being generated, stored, and consumed. This provides a clear picture of household energy use and makes it easier to manage.
Customer goals achieved
The customer in Preston wanted three main outcomes:
- To generate their own electricity using a reliable solar panel setup.
- To store energy for evening use rather than exporting it during the day.
- To reduce reliance on the grid and achieve a clear financial return.
The system we installed meets all three. The predicted generation and savings match their usage pattern well, and the addition of battery storage allows them to benefit from nearly all of the energy their panels produce.
Summary of the Preston installation
- Panels: 12 x DMEG 450w
- System size: 5.4kW
- Annual generation: approx. 4,660kWh
- Battery: Fox hybrid inverter with 7.5kWh storage
- Battery location: loft
- Estimated annual benefit: £1,100
- Estimated payback: 5 years
A clean and efficient solar and battery installation in Preston, designed to suit the property and expected to provide reliable performance for many years to come.
Thinking about solar panels?
We carry out installations like this across the country. If you are looking for solar installers in Preston or anywhere else in the UK, our case studies give a realistic idea of what can be achieved.
Every home is different, and the right system depends on usage, roof space, and budget. If you are considering a UK solar panel installation and would like to explore your options, get in touch for straightforward advice, or follow the link to the free no obligation remote survey page and enter your details.
