Customer InformationSolar Photovoltaic (PV) Panels

We have fitted solar panels to your home to give you the opportunity to save money on your household energy bills. Solar panels will produce electricity that can be used in your home.

Solar electricity systems capture the sun’s energy using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The cells convert the sunlight into electricity, which can be used to run some household appliances or lighting. Solar panels do not necessarily need direct sunlight to work – they can still generate electricity on a cloudy day.

The main benefit of solar panels is that you are able to use the electricity generated which can help reduce your electricity bill. According to The Energy Saving Trust, on average £70 a year can be saved from using solar panels*.

Maintaining your systemThe lifespan of the solar panels is around 25 years. During this period, we will continuously monitor your system to ensure it is working correctly. If it’s not, we will be in touch to arrange an appointment for an electrician to visit your home.

We will, from time to time, need to service and upgrade parts of your system to make sure you are maximising the benefits of the solar panels. When this happens, we will notify you of any maintenance work needed to be carried out and will provide you with sufficient notice.

As we will monitor and maintain your solar panel system for free, you will not need to agree any maintenance contracts or fees with any other company. If you are approached by any companies offering these services, please take their details and pass them on to the Gentoo Energy Team on 0191 525 2888.

Your route to saving money and saving the planet.

*This can vary depending on a number of factors including; occupants, the way energy is used and the direction the property faces.

Maximising the benefitsAlthough you won’t need to change what you do in your home too much, there are a few things you should be aware of that could help you maximise the potential savings available from your solar panels.l Use A+++ rated appliances.l Use timed appliances if you are out during the day, as systems generally generate the most energy between 10:00am to 3:00pm.l Use larger appliances (washing machine, tumble dryer, vacuum cleaner) one at a time to maximise the amount of electricity generated from your solar panels.

How will my solar panels help the environment?As your solar panels will be producing electricity directly from sunlight, you will use less grid electricity. Grid electricity is largely produced through the burning of fossil fuels which release carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming. The less we rely on energy produced by fossil fuels, the better for the environment.

Do I have to pay extra for my solar panels?There is no extra charge to your rent.

Can I switch energy supplier if I have solar panels?You can switch energy supplier. There is no need to tell your supplier that you have solar panels installed as we will have already notified the appropriate authorities.

Will my house be eligible for the Right to Buy or Right to Acquire scheme if my house has solar panels?You can still apply for the Right to Buy or Right to Acquire scheme if you have solar panels. The options available to you will be explained on application and confirmed in your offer letter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if there is a power cut?For safety reasons, in the event of a power cut the PV system inverter will automatically switch off. This safety feature is designed to ensure the safety of people who may be working on the grid to resolve any problems, as they could be put at risk if electricity was being supplied to the grid during a power cut. The solar panels will automatically switch back on when safe to do so and if not, we will contact you to arrange for an electrician to visit your home.

What if I need more electricity than my solar panels generate?Solar panels generally supplement the electricity used in your household and will automatically be used as it’s being generated throughout the day. Therefore, your energy supplier will provide any additional energy needed at the cost of your electricity tariff. The switch between your supplier and solar panels will occur automatically.

If you do not use all the electricity generated by your solar panels, any ‘excess’ electricity is exported back to the grid, it will not be stored for later use.

ContactIf you require further information and assistance with your solar panels, you can contact the Gentoo Energy Team on 0191 525 2888 or by emailing energyteam@gentoogroup.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

*Calls to 03 numbers will cost the same as calls to a landline and will be included as part of any inclusive calls.

Are you concerned about the amount you’re spending on your energy bill?If you think you may be spending more than 10% of your household’s annual income on electricity and gas combined, you can contact The Energy Saving Trust on 0300 123 1234* for help and advice.

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