Can you add more solar panels to your system?

Expanding your solar panel system can serve multiple purposes—perhaps your household has grown, or your energy requirements have shifted. Adding more solar panels to your setup can significantly boost the energy output of your home, especially if you have sufficient roof space. Installation typically involves straightforward steps, making it a practical choice for many homeowners.

However, before jumping into expanding your solar array, there are some key factors you should consider. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you need to think about before committing:

Assess Your Current Solar Panel Setup

Before deciding to add more solar panels, it's wise to evaluate the performance of your current solar system. Depending on the age and capacity of your existing setup, adding panels might involve additional costs or technical adjustments. While our team at Project Solar is always ready to assist, having a basic understanding of your current system can be beneficial before making any changes.

Understand Your Inverter Capacity

Your solar panel system includes an inverter that transforms the direct current (DC) generated by your panels into alternating current (AC) usable in your home. When your solar panels were initially installed, the inverter was sized based on your initial system configuration, typically around 80-120% of the maximum capacity. Adding more panels means checking if your current inverter can manage the extra energy flow. You may need to upgrade your inverter or install a dedicated one for the new panels.

Your Feed-In Tariff

Feed-in tariffs allow solar users to sell excess energy back to the grid. Keep in mind that any additional panels you install will qualify for the current feed-in tariff rate, not the one you originally received. As of now, the feed-in tariff stands at 12.92p, but expect this rate to drop in the future. If you're weighing whether to add panels now or later, this could influence your decision.

Evaluate Your Current Energy Consumption

Before expanding your system, it’s crucial to analyze your present energy usage. This will help you determine the number of panels to add and whether it makes financial sense. If you’re already exporting a significant portion of your energy back to the grid, your existing system may be adequate. Once you’ve assessed your energy needs, you can calculate how many extra panels are necessary.

Planning for Additional Panels

Adding more panels isn’t just about the available roof space. The size of your current panels plays a role in whether you can expand your system. If your new installation keeps the total energy generation under 3.68kW (16 amps), you won’t face any issues. However, exceeding this limit requires submitting a G59 application to the Distribution Network Operator (DNO). They'll verify if your upgraded system can work within the existing grid infrastructure. You must receive approval before proceeding, which can take several months.

How Many Extra Panels Do You Need?

The number depends on the additional power you require and the output of your current system. Ideally, stick to the same type of panels, but if they're unavailable, choose ones with similar wattage ratings. This ensures consistency and optimal performance.

Think About Solar Batteries

While adding more panels, you can enhance efficiency by investing in solar batteries. These storage units let you sell surplus energy back to the grid via platforms like Social Energy, allowing you to earn credits on your electricity bill.

Double-Check Your Numbers

Ensure that adding more panels provides both an energy boost and financial benefits. A minimum addition of 1kW is recommended to achieve a positive return on investment, factoring in savings and feed-in tariff earnings. Sufficient roof space is essential for this expansion, and it’s also advisable to inspect the structural integrity of your roof beforehand.

Consult the Experts

Deciding to expand your solar panel system is a major decision. You want to be confident that your investment will yield the desired results. Our team at Project Solar UK is here to guide you through every step of your solar journey. Reach out to us today—we’re happy to help!