Customer Satisfaction
Customer Satisfaction | Solar Installation | Electrical | Winchester
From the first consultation to the final meter reading, HEP’s Winchester team treats every project as though it were powering our own homes. We listen closely to your goals, explain the process in plain language, and schedule work around your lifestyle, so the only surprise is how quickly your new system starts saving you money. Our certified electricians arrive on time, protect your property as they work, and leave each site cleaner than they found it—backing everything with clear warranties and ongoing support.
Customers tell us they feel valued, informed, and fully confident throughout their solar installation because we blend small-town courtesy with cutting-edge expertise. Whether you’re upgrading a historic cottage in Kings Worthy or adding panels to a modern build on the Downs, HEP delivers the same meticulous workmanship and attentive aftercare that have made us Winchester’s trusted choice for renewable energy solutions.
FAQs
How long does a typical residential solar installation in Winchester take from contract signing to switch-on?
Once your contract is signed, most domestic systems are completed and generating power within 4–6 weeks. This timeframe covers site survey (2–3 days), design and permitting with Winchester City Council and your Distribution Network Operator (about 10–15 working days), physical installation (1–2 days for a 4–6 kW array), and the final electrical inspection and commissioning (1–2 days). Larger or more complex roofs may add a week, but we give you a detailed schedule up front and keep you updated at every step.
Do I need planning permission to install solar panels on my Winchester property?
In the majority of cases roof-mounted solar PV systems are classed as ‘Permitted Development’ under UK planning rules, so no formal planning permission is required. The panels must not protrude more than 200 mm from the roof surface and must be below the ridge line. However, if your home is in a conservation area, is a listed building, or you want a ground-mount array, you will need consent from Winchester City Council. We check this during our survey, prepare any paperwork, and liaise with the council at no extra charge.
What incentives or financing options are available for solar in Winchester?
All our customers can benefit from VAT-free installation on domestic solar (0 % VAT until March 2027). You can also export surplus power through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and earn 5–15 p/kWh depending on the tariff. For low-interest financing, we partner with approved green-energy lenders that offer 3–10-year plans with rates from 3.9 % APR. Businesses may claim 100 % first-year relief using the Annual Investment Allowance. We provide a tailored savings report and guide you through every application.
How much maintenance will my solar PV system require?
Solar PV systems are largely maintenance-free. Winchester’s regular rainfall naturally cleans most dust and pollen from the panels. We recommend a visual inspection once a year and a professional electrical test every 5 years (about £120). Our installations include online monitoring: if output drops, we receive an alert and can often diagnose remotely. All panels carry a 25-year performance warranty and our workmanship is covered for 10 years, giving you peace of mind.
Can solar panels really cope with the South-East England climate?
Absolutely. Modern monocrystalline panels work on light, not heat, and actually perform slightly better in cooler temperatures. Winchester receives roughly 1,600 sunlight hours a year—more than enough to generate around 3,800 kWh annually from a standard 4 kW array. That covers about 70 % of an average household’s electricity needs and offsets over 900 kg of CO₂ each year. Our design software uses NASA irradiation data specific to your postcode to predict yield accurately.
What happens to my electricity supply if there is a power cut?
Grid-tied solar systems automatically shut down during an outage for safety, so they do not power your home unless you add battery backup or a secure power supply (SPS) socket. We offer Tesla Powerwall, GivEnergy and SolarEdge Home batteries that keep essential circuits—lights, fridge, Wi-Fi, heating controls—running for several hours. With batteries, your system can also charge from overnight economy tariffs and further cut your bills. We size backup capacity based on your priorities during the design stage.