Energy Solutions
Energy Solutions | Solar Installation | Electrical | Kelso
Give your Kelso home or business the freedom to generate its own clean, affordable power. HEP’s seasoned electricians handle everything in-house—from custom design and permitting to seamless grid connection—so you enjoy a hassle-free solar installation that starts paying you back from day one. We source high-efficiency panels built for Scotland’s climate, back them with industry-leading warranties, and monitor performance 24/7 to keep your system shining for decades.
Ready to lock in lower energy bills and shrink your carbon footprint? Trust the local team that treats every roof like its own. Request your free on-site evaluation today and discover how effortlessly HEP can plug you into the future of renewable energy.
FAQs
Is Kelso sunny enough for solar panels to be worthwhile?
Yes. Kelso receives an average of 1,100–1,200 kWh of solar irradiation per square metre each year—comparable to many parts of southern England. A well-positioned 4 kW domestic system can typically generate 3,400–3,800 kWh of electricity annually, covering 60–80 % of a household’s daytime demand and significantly reducing grid imports.
How much can I expect to save on my electricity bills?
Savings depend on your usage pattern, array size, and export tariff, but most households in Kelso save £600–£900 per year with a standard 4 kW roof-mounted system. Adding battery storage can raise on-site consumption to 70–90 %, pushing annual savings toward £1,000. With electricity prices rising about 5 % per year on average, the typical payback period is 6–9 years, after which electricity is essentially free for the remaining 15–20 years of the system’s life.
Are there grants or incentives available for solar installation in the Scottish Borders?
Yes. The Home Energy Scotland Loan offers interest-free loans up to £6,000 for solar PV and £5,000 for battery storage. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) also pays you for every kWh you export to the grid; current rates range from 5p to 20p per kWh depending on the supplier. Commercial customers may benefit from the Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) scheme, which allows 100 % tax relief in year one on qualifying energy-saving equipment.
Do I need planning permission to install solar panels in Kelso?
Most domestic roof-mounted systems fall under Permitted Development in Scotland, so no planning application is required if the array is below 200 mm from the roof surface, does not protrude above the ridgeline, and is sited to minimise visual impact. Ground-mounted arrays under 9 m² also normally qualify. Properties in conservation areas or on listed buildings require planning consent; we provide a free planning check and can manage any applications on your behalf.
How long does installation take and will it disrupt my home or business?
A typical domestic installation (up to 4 kW) takes 1–2 days on site. Scaffolding is erected the day before and removed shortly afterwards. Power is only switched off for 30–60 minutes while we connect the inverter to your consumer unit. Commercial projects up to 50 kW usually complete within a week. All work is carried out by NICEIC-approved electricians who follow strict safety protocols, and we tidy the site thoroughly before hand-over.
What maintenance and warranties come with your solar systems?
Solar PV requires minimal upkeep—routine visual checks and occasional cleaning to remove moss or bird droppings. We include a free 12-month post-installation inspection and offer optional annual maintenance plans starting at £99. Our Tier-1 panels carry 25-year performance warranties (at least 80 % output in year 25) and 12–15-year product warranties. Inverters are covered for 10–12 years, extendable to 20 years. All workmanship is insured for 5 years through the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC).