Energy prices have been climbing steeply over the last few years. It is no wonder more and more people are looking for sustainable ways to generate electricity and heat independently. It is a fantastic strategy to save on bills and avoid some of the inconveniences of power cuts.
It might seem counterintuitive to use solar energy in the UK; however newer panels can function on cloudy days and in partial shade. Electricity can power pellet stoves, electric heaters, and more.
Installing solar panels on a detached garage is an easy, quick, and cost-effective way to start using solar energy.
Below we look at how to build a garage that is suitable for a solar installation in detail.
You can install solar panels on an existing garage or shed. However, if you build a new one, you can erect it in an ideal spot to maximise the panels’ output.
Mounting solar panels on an outbuilding within your property limits can be done DIY without planning permission. This reduces costs considerably, especially if you choose a timber garage you can self-assemble.
The position of the garage is the most important factor - the more sunlight reaches the panel, the more power they can generate. Choose a spot on your property that is in the sun for much of the day, far from trees and other things, such as tall fences, that might shade it. Investigate the sun’s path throughout the year - the shade moves around with the passing of the months. It may be worth replanting trees if they obstruct the sun.
Once you find a good spot, it is time to consider size. More panels generate more energy, of course, so do not build a very small garage. It is always helpful to add an extra bay or two to store some items which do not fit in your house, such as camping equipment, wellies, hiking gear, and more.
When planning the design, consider how high the roof will sit. This is where the sun will hit the panels.
Next you will need to decide on the roof pitch. This is very important, as it will impact how long the sun will be on the panels on a daily basis. A 40-degree pitch will allow you to capture the biggest amount of light year-round. You can use mounting brackets to tilt the panels to reach this pitch after the garage has been built. To maximise the input, place solar panels on both sides of the roof.
You could even consider adding special mounting brackets which allow the panels to slide and tilt once fixed, so you can reposition them at different times of year.
The roof will need to be strong enough to support the panels and their brackets. If you are not building a new garage, it is worth getting its roof inspected by a professional to make sure it is suitable for a solar install. You may need to replace it or improve it.
Finally, you will need to think about how to accommodate cabling. Cables will need to travel from the panels to the batteries, which, in the case of an independent self-contained system, will need to be housed in the garage itself to stay dry.
If you are connecting the panels to the grid, you will need to run the cables all the way back to your electrical service panel. To be able to do this, the concrete foundations will have to accommodate the cables; you will need to tell this to the builder who is going to do the groundworks. Connecting the panels to the mains will need to be done by a qualified electrician.
Once you have a draft of the design and you have checked available garages which match it, you can either get in touch with a solar company and ask for their advice or choose a solar power kit you can install yourself. When selecting a system, look at energy efficiency, panel size, and output.
It is essential you know the exact weight of the panels and the kind of brackets you will install in order to choose a specific roof design. The outbuilding itself will need structural integrity to support the roof and panels
Chart Garages will be able to help you pick the right framing and roofing materials. Our timber garages are cost-effective, quick to build, and made of sustainable but strong timber.
Generating solar power can help you lower your electricity bills, if you connect them to the grid. To save on gas bills, you could buy a portable induction stove, use electric heaters, and even install a pellet stove. These are not efficient ways to generate heat, but with gas shortages, they are good alternative options.
If you are considering buying an electric car (EV) to save on fuel, you could install a stand-alone solar system and charge it virtually for free via the panels. This will save you hundreds of Pounds a year.
Having a solar system on your garage roof is not just a short-term solution to the energy crisis, though. Solar power is green and renewable; it helps you reduce your footprint. A solar system is an asset. You could always use it to power the lights and machines of a gym or workshop in the future.
Moreover, solar panels are low maintenance, so you will not need to tend to them regularly. Cleaning them regularly will be enough.
