The homeowner had two solar PV arrays that weren't working. HOMEOWNER PROFILE Age: 84 Location: Dursley Occupation: Retired Background: The homeowner had two solar PV arrays fitted seven years ago. Both were fully operational until two years ago, when work was carried out by roofing contractors. The homeowner had become concerned after they noticed a sharp rise in their electric consumption and were unaware as to why? They were not able to access the app-based monitoring system either, as they didn't own a smartphone and were unfamiliar with using one. They contacted us to request a site visit and plan for potential remedial works. Solution: Our electrician carried out a site survey of both the roof and the garage area to ascertain if there was a problem and how to put it right. A survey of the roof revealed that the solar panels were all disconnected from the power supply. This was unknown to the homeowner and presumable happened during incomplete roofing works two years previously. Leading on from discovering the disconnection problems on the roof, we undertook a survey of the homeowner’s garage, where we found that the system inverters had also been disconnected with a collection of cables left dangerously, in an exposed state. At this point, we were able to plan remedial works and complete it in four stages - Phase one - carry out testing to check the functionality of each panel individually and reconnect in their original Strings - all were fine and no replacements were needed. Phase two - replace existing (now out of warranty) inverters with new, simplified models which did not use an app for monitoring, so would be more suited to the needs of the homeowner. Phase three - reconnect solar panels to the new inverters and carry system testing and commissioning checks. Phase four - make safe and enclose electrical cabling in the garage. Outcome: The homeowner now has two fully functioning solar PV arrays, generating around 2500kWh. They are able to view the readings on the new inverters and check that they are operational and their levels of generation.

Retired couple take the leap into solar energy HOMEOWNER PROFILE Private Owner Location: Cam Occupation: Retired Engineer Background: Our customers, a retired couple wanted to explore the practical and financial aspects of investing in a solar PV and battery system for their long-time family home. They had received quotes from other renewable installers, but were left feeling confused by the technical jargon and in their words ‘none the wiser’ after their meetings with sales reps. They wanted someone who understood their needs and would explain things clearly and with patience. Solution: Our electrician met with the homeowners at a mutually convenient time to carry out an initial survey of the roof. The survey revealed that solar panels were a viable option for the couple, as the property was south facing, the condition of the roof was good and shading was not an issue. We recorded measurements and took details for positioning. Next, we sat and talked with the homeowners about their current energy consumption along with their hopes for a solar and battery system in their home. These details were captured by us in order to go away and prepare a ‘proposal pack’ for the homeowners to consider. These packs include information such as projected system performance, projected savings, total cost, work start date and time-frame. We sent the ‘proposal pack’ to the customer and left them to make up their mind. (We NEVER badger customers.) Following the acceptance of contractual paperwork, the physical work was able to be completed in phases over a timeframe of around 4* days. Phase one - carry out in depth site survey and apply for all permissions needed. Phase two - erect scaffolding and install roof mounted solar panels. Phase three - install battery system and connect solar panels. Phase four - Carry out full system testing and commissioning checks. Once the phased work was complete, we issued the homeowner with their personalised ‘handover pack’ which includes documents, such as Building Regulations, MCS and Electrical Installation Certifications - access to these will allow them to claim SEG payments on their future energy production. Outcome: Job was completed to time and schedule. The energy production for these homeowners was projected at 6500 kWh/yr. They were also (super) happy to know that their new system would save them around £1300 on their energy bills in the first year alone.

Tenant adds value to rental property HOMEOWNER PROFILE Private Tenant Location: Nailsworth Occupation: Telecomms Engineer Background: Our customer needed an EV charge point installed at his long-term rental property. The property was owned by a private landlord, who was agreeable to the installation but only if the EV Charge Point, and its location was sympathetic to the character of the picturesque property. Our customer, a private tenant had agreed responsibility for installation costs and his tenancy made him eligible to apply for Government funded grant for tenants. Solution: Phase one - work with the tenant to ensure all landlord permissions were in place. Phase two - initiate grant funding (OZEV) for our customer via an online application process. Phase three - obtain permission to connect to the grid via the Distribution Network Operator (DNO). Phase four - carry out EV Charge point installation at the property - continuing to work with our customer on specifics such as location. Phase five - EV Charge point commission EV Charge point and finalise grant funding (OZEV) process. Outcome: This period property now has a discreet EV Charge point fitted which has added both value and convenience to the landlord and tenant alike. Our customer saved £350 on the cost of the installation, thanks to the OZEV grant for tenants and landlords