What Homeowners Should Look for in a Renewable Energy Specialist

The past few years have taught us that nothing is certain, particularly when it comes to the number on that monthly energy bill. What’s more, with climate change becoming increasingly tangible, it’s no surprise that, now more than ever, many of us are strongly considering renewable energy installations for our homes. 

While it would be possible to write on the many benefits of renewable energy solutions for homes for many hours, it’s just as important that you understand how to find the right company to work with. 

Experience 

Renewable energy is a growing industry, with market demand for solar, battery storage, EV charging, and heat pumps growing every year in response to higher energy costs and more erratic seasonal changes. While this is great news for the country as a whole, it also means that a lot of new companies are looking to tap into a growing market without a particularly strong foothold – or enough experience behind them to complete installations to the highest standards possible. 

A company with many years of experience already within this industry is going to be the best option, since they have a comprehensive understanding of the entire process and can ensure every aspect of the installation is tailored to your property’s unique needs and demands. 

Locality

While it may not sound important for something with as much widespread demand as solar or EV charging, working with a local company is important. Every area of the country has its own quirks; a traditional Cotswold property isn’t going to have the same energy efficiency gripes as a Victorian terrace in London, for instance. 

Additionally, different planning permissions and local regulations can impact the feasibility of an install, or mean there are a couple more hoops to jump through before work can begin. 

It’s far better to work with a company who understands the specifics of the local area, from the properties themselves to the local council’s level of involvement in retrofits. 

MCS Certification 

Any company with MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certification will ensure it’s clearly displayed on their website. This ensures that your installation will meet a certain level for quality, and prove eligible for the Export Tariff. 

A Strong Core Team of Experts

Some smaller companies subcontract part of the work to third-parties in order to save on costs. While this works in theory, it also means you get a mixed bag in terms of quality. It’s far more beneficial for homeowners to work with companies who have a strong, core team of experts as this means their work is going to be far more consistent between jobs.

No High-Pressure Sales Tactics 

A well-planned, purpose-built solar installation will sell itself, but this is still a big financial commitment and not something that you should feel pushed into. A good company will visit your property, inspect it thoroughly, and create a plan – with a clear and realistic estimated cost – without feeling the need to treat the installation like a used car.