When Ken Colwell decided to invest in solar panels for his home in Rose, near Perranporth, he wanted a system that would reduce his energy bills and provide reliable renewable energy for years to come.
What he didn't expect was that the first thing Natural Generation would do was refuse to install his solar panels...
During the initial site survey, our experienced technicians, Kiwi and Ollie, inspected the roof and identified a potential issue. Although the roof was still functioning, its 50-year-old tiles were no longer in the condition we'd be happy mounting a solar array onto.
Rather than pushing ahead with the installation, we recommended replacing the roof tiles first to ensure the solar system would have a strong, secure foundation for decades to come.
For us, doing the right thing for the customer is always more important than simply completing the job.
Putting Quality First
Thankfully, Ken appreciated the honesty and professionalism of our team. While replacing the roof added an extra step to the project, it ensured that when the solar installation went ahead, it would be built to the highest standard and wouldn't require costly remedial work further down the line.
"Colin coordinated the process and its complications with knowledge and assurance, and was always helpful with ourselves and our builder. The initial roofing team of Kiwi and Ollie were truthful and incredibly helpful in pointing out that our roof was in need of replacing. I could imagine other companies might not have been so helpful!"
Once the new roof was completed, the project resumed and our team returned to install the system.
A Smart Solar and Battery Solution
To maximise solar generation throughout the day for Ken's home, we installed two solar arrays facing north and south, allowing the system to capture energy during different phases of sunlight.
The completed system consists of:
Solar Array
- 15 x Trina Solar 450W panels
- Total system size: 6.8kW
- Estimated annual generation: 5,481kWh
Battery Storage
- 2 x Haier Smart Cube BAT HBP-5.0 batteries
- Total storage capacity: 10.76kWh
Inverter
- Haier Smart Cube EC HH1P-5K
- Total inverter capacity: 5kW
The addition of battery storage means Ken can store excess electricity generated during the day and use it when needed, significantly reducing reliance on the grid.
During periods of surplus generation, excess energy can also be exported back to the grid, helping him to generate additional income.
The Bottom Line
Before switching to solar, Ken was paying around £85 each month for his electricity bill. In June, since the solar installation, his electricity bill dropped to just 36p, as he used less that 1kw from the grid, with a £16.47 standing charge.
Since Ken starting receiving export payments from his sytem, in June he made £17.01 in income for the 11 days he exported excess energy back to the grid - so the exported energy will more than pay for his standing charge, taking him from an £85 bill each month to a small profit!
Environmental Benefits
As well as saving money on his bills, Ken's new solar installation is expected to also deliver significant environmental benefits throughout its lifetime;
Annual Impact
- 174% household consumption offset
- Approximately 1 tonne of CO₂ emissions avoided every year
Lifetime Impact
- Equivalent to avoiding 41,488km of car travel
- Similar environmental benefit to planting 267 trees
- Comparable to avoiding 30 long-haul flights
Customer Feedback
We had some lovely feedback from Ken on his experience with our team, and his new solar and battery setup:
"Your price point was very competitive. Our initial contact was with Dexter, who was knowledgeable, patient and with an eye for detail. He gave us the confidence in Natural Generation to move forward with your quote.
The final installation was seamless. The two roofing teams were professional and left a great looking solar panel array. The electrician Andy was wonderful in his calm efficient professionalism.
Can I thank all from Natural Generation for the installation of a brilliant solar panel and Haier battery setup. We are absolutely delighted with the finished product and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Natural Generation."
- Ken Colwell, Rose
Thinking About Solar for Your Home?
We understand that every property is different, which is why we take the time to thoroughly assess your home and recommend the most suitable solution.
Whether you're looking to reduce your electricity bills, increase your energy independence or lower your carbon footprint, our experienced team can design a solar and battery system tailored to your needs.
Get in touch with Natural Generation today to arrange your free solar survey.
