Renewable Energy
Renewable Energy | Solar Installation | Electrical | Newport
From the sun-kissed roofs of Newport’s seafront cottages to the bustling commercial districts, HEP turns untapped daylight into dependable power. Our solar installation team handles everything in-house—design, permitting, mounting, and smart-meter integration—so you can watch your energy bills fall while your property’s value rises. Whether you’re retrofitting a Victorian terrace or outfitting a new build, we tailor each array to Newport’s unique coastal climate, using corrosion-resistant hardware and the latest high-efficiency panels.
Choosing HEP means choosing local technicians who live here, answer the phone here, and can be on-site in minutes. We back every kWh with transparent performance monitoring, 25-year product warranties, and a promise to recycle end-of-life components responsibly. Start generating clean electricity and join the community that’s lighting up Newport’s future—one roof at a time.
FAQs
Is Newport sunny enough for solar panels to be worthwhile?
Yes. While Newport averages fewer peak-sun hours than southern Europe, modern photovoltaic (PV) panels work efficiently in diffuse light and cooler temperatures actually improve cell performance. Newport receives about 950–1,050 kWh of solar energy per square metre each year. A well-oriented 4 kW array can therefore generate roughly 3,600–4,000 kWh annually—more than the average Welsh household’s daytime demand—making solar a sound investment.
What grants or financial incentives are available for solar installations in Newport?
Homeowners and businesses can currently benefit from: • 0 % VAT on domestic solar PV, battery storage and ancillary works (until March 2027). • The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which pays you for every kWh you export to the grid; rates in 2024 range from 6p to 15p/kWh depending on supplier. • Local authority and Welsh Government schemes such as the Nest programme for eligible households and the Green Business Loan Scheme for SMEs. We will guide you through paperwork, meter registration and choosing the best SEG tariff.
Do I need planning permission to install solar panels on my property?
In most cases, no. Roof-mounted solar PV is classed as ‘permitted development’ in Wales provided the array: • Projects less than 200 mm from the roof surface • Is set back at least 200 mm from the edge of the roof • Is not installed on a listed building or within the grounds of a scheduled monument Ground-mounted arrays under 9 m² also qualify. If your property is in a conservation area or you require a larger, visible, or commercial installation, we will handle the planning application with Newport City Council.
How much does a typical solar system cost and what is the payback period?
A standard 4 kW roof-mounted system in Newport costs £5,500–£6,500 (including scaffolding, monitoring and 0 % VAT). With annual bill savings of ~£700 and SEG export earnings of £100–£200, the system can pay for itself in 7–9 years. Larger 6 kW systems with battery storage (8–10 kWh) run £10,000–£12,000 and achieve payback in 8–11 years thanks to higher self-consumption and protection from rising energy prices.
Can I add battery storage now or later, and how does it interact with the grid?
Absolutely. We install hybrid inverters that allow you to retrofit a lithium-ion battery at any time. During the day, excess solar charges the battery; in the evening, stored energy powers your home, boosting self-consumption from ~40 % to 70-90 %. When the battery is full, surplus still flows to the grid for SEG payments. If you opt for an off-peak tariff (e.g., Economy 7), the battery can also top up with cheap night-time electricity, further lowering bills and providing backup during outages.
What maintenance and warranties come with a solar PV system installed by you?
Solar panels have no moving parts and require minimal upkeep—just an occasional visual check and cleaning if heavy soiling occurs. We include: • 25-year performance warranty (panels guaranteed ≥80 % of rated output at year 25) • 10-12-year product warranty on panels and inverters (extendable) • 5-year workmanship warranty, backed by the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC) • Online monitoring portal with fault alerts We also offer an optional annual service (inspection, electrical tests, wash and performance report) to keep your system operating at peak efficiency.