HOW IT WORKS
From first call to generating power — your Edinburgh solar journey
The typical process takes 4–8 weeks from enquiry to switch-on. Properties in conservation areas should allow an additional 8–12 weeks for planning determination by City of Edinburgh Council.
Every step below is managed for you. You deal with one point of contact throughout — Edinburgh Solar Hub, part of Scottish Energy Efficiency.
Enquiry & initial conversation
Your journey starts with a quick enquiry — online, by phone (0141 230 0198), or via WhatsApp. We ask about your property type, postcode, energy use and what interests you (solar, battery, heat pump or a combination). This is a no-pressure conversation with an advisor, not a salesperson. We use Edinburgh-specific data to give you an honest first view of whether renewables make sense for your home.
Home survey
A qualified surveyor from our MCS-certified installation partner visits your property at a time that suits you — at no obligation. They assess your roof orientation, pitch, shading, electrical infrastructure and any structural considerations. For flats and tenements, they confirm access and freeholder requirements. This visit typically takes 60–90 minutes.
Bespoke system design & written quote
Based on the survey, your installer designs a system tailored to your roof and consumption. You receive a detailed proposal with panel layout and predicted annual generation (based on Edinburgh's 894 kWh/kWp yield). The price is confirmed on your written quote — not an estimate, not a range. 0% VAT on solar panels and batteries until 31 March 2027. Finance: Loans available, subject to status.
DNO notification (G98/G99)
Before any grid-connected installation, your distribution network operator must be notified. In Edinburgh, that's SP Energy Networks (SPEN). For systems up to 3.68 kW per phase, a G98 notification is submitted — this is a simple process with no approval wait. Larger systems require a G99 application, which can take 10–45 working days. Your installer handles all of this paperwork on your behalf.
Building warrant (where required)
Most domestic solar installations in Scotland fall under permitted development and don't need a building warrant. However, if your property is in a conservation area (Old Town, New Town, Stockbridge, Murrayfield and many more across Edinburgh), a planning application to City of Edinburgh Council is required. Listed buildings need Listed Building Consent. We guide you through every step, and your installation partner can advise on Edinburgh conservation area applications. Standard timeline: 4–8 weeks. Conservation areas: add 8–12 weeks for planning determination.
Installation by MCS-certified installer
We install through MCS-certified partners. Your installation partner holds MCS certification for the work being carried out. A typical solar panel installation takes 1–2 days. Solar-plus-battery systems usually take 2 days. Heat pumps take 3–5 days depending on the property. Your installer manages scaffolding, electrical work and any roof modifications.
Commissioning & handover pack
Once installation is complete, your system is commissioned, tested and registered with MCS. You receive a handover pack including: MCS certificate, DNO confirmation, electrical certification (BS 7671), manufacturer warranty documents, system user guide and monitoring app setup. Warranty and guarantee terms are confirmed in writing on your quotation. Your MCS certificate is needed to apply for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments for electricity you export to the grid, with rates set by each supplier.
Aftercare & ongoing support
Your relationship with us doesn't end at installation. We help you choose an SEG export tariff, set up monitoring so you can track generation in real time, and remain your first point of contact for any questions. If anything needs attention, we coordinate with your installation partner's aftercare team. Annual check-ins and performance reviews are part of the service. See our full guarantee and aftercare details on the guarantees page.
Ready to start?
Call us on 0141 230 0198 or request a quote online. No obligation, no pressure — just honest Edinburgh solar advice.