Professional Solar Panel Installers in Reading

Shading can have a serious impact on system performance and, as such, can affect the financial return of your solar PV system. If shading might be a problem, Spirit Energy is able to provide full computer-generated shading analysis and system design using specialist computer software. We can advise on the best panel configuration to minimise impact on performance, and highlight any potential losses, so you can make an informed decision.

Yes, we recommend having good internet at your property. Some inverters, battery chargers, batteries and monitoring products require internet connectivity for the purposes of remote monitoring and / or correct functioning.

You'll often see PV systems classified by their theoretical kWp (killowatt peak) output. This number is mostly used for comparison - the important measure for your system is the estimated annual kWh (killowatt hour) generation. It's the energy you can expect your system to produce, allowing for local conditions, shading, whether the panels are in or on roof, orientation etc. Read more in our blog on peak power.

Large energy suppliers are legally obliged to offer an export tariff, to pay you for any excess solar power sent to the grid. It's usually around 5.5p/kWh. Check out our guide to current export rates to help you choose the best tariff.

A smart meter is an internet-connected version of an electricity meter, capable of communicating data to your electricity supplier. You need a second generation (SMETS2) smart meter to guarantee it continues to be smart if you change supplier. Smart meters can also measure any solar power exported to the grid at half-hourly intervals, which is necessary to claim a Smart Export Guarantee tariff. Spirit does not install smart meters. You will need to request one from your energy supplier. Note that many electricity suppliers do not yet offer 3-phase smart meters that can measure export. Example smart meter: Example in home display: