Roof Suitability
Your roof needs to be in good condition and able to support the weight of panels and mounting. Orientation matters: south-facing is ideal in the UK, but east and west can still work. Shading from trees or neighbouring buildings will affect output, so a good installer will assess this before designing your system. If your roof is due for replacement soon, it may be worth doing that first so the panels go on a sound structure for the next 25+ years.
Energy Usage
Understanding how much electricity you use — and when — helps size your system correctly. Households that use more power during the day (e.g. working from home) can use more solar directly; those that use most in the evening may benefit from battery storage to shift that daytime generation. A solar quote will typically ask about your usage so we can recommend the right capacity and whether to add storage.
Budget
Solar is an upfront investment that pays back over time through lower bills and export payments. Your budget will influence system size and whether you include a battery or EV charger from day one. Finance options may be available to help spread the cost. At GreenFox Energy we work across Scotland (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, Perth and beyond) and can provide a clear quote so you know exactly what you're paying for.
Installer Choice: MCS And RECC
Choosing an MCS-certified installer is important. MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certifies that installers and products meet technical and quality standards. It’s required for eligibility for the Smart Export Guarantee (so you get paid for exporting surplus electricity) and is often a condition of product warranties. RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) membership gives you extra consumer protection if there’s a dispute. Always check that your solar installer is MCS certified and, ideally, RECC registered.
Battery And EV
Adding a battery lets you store surplus solar and use it when the sun isn’t shining, which can improve your financial return and resilience. If you have or plan to get an electric vehicle, an EV charger — especially one that can use your solar — can make even more use of your generation. These can be included in your initial design or added later; our team can advise on the best approach for your home and budget.
