The right solution depends on your energy consumption, operating hours, available roof or land, existing infrastructure and longer-term plans. Solmatix begins by assessing these factors before recommending an appropriate system.
Support and aftercare questions
Below are a few of the most commonly asked questions.
If you have any other questions not listed below, do not hesitate to get in touch and we will endeavour to answer all queries.
Please choose from the dropdown below which category best relates to your question.
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How do I know which renewable energy solution is right for my business?
The right solution depends on your energy consumption, operating hours, available roof or land, existing infrastructure and longer-term plans. Solmatix begins by assessing these factors before recommending an appropriate system.
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Is my building or site suitable for commercial solar PV?
Many commercial roofs and land areas may be suitable, but structural condition, orientation, shading, grid capacity and site constraints must be assessed. Our team can undertake an initial review and site assessment.
Many commercial roofs and land areas may be suitable, but structural condition, orientation, shading, grid capacity and site constraints must be assessed. Our team can undertake an initial review and site assessment.
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Can solar PV significantly reduce our electricity costs?
The potential reduction will depend on the size of the system and how closely its generation matches your organisation’s electricity use. Businesses with consistent daytime demand are often well placed to use a high proportion of the electricity generated onsite.
The potential reduction will depend on the size of the system and how closely its generation matches your organisation’s electricity use. Businesses with consistent daytime demand are often well placed to use a high proportion of the electricity generated onsite.
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Can battery storage be added to a commercial solar system?
Yes. Battery storage can be installed alongside a new solar PV system or considered for an existing installation, subject to technical assessment and compatibility.
Yes. Battery storage can be installed alongside a new solar PV system or considered for an existing installation, subject to technical assessment and compatibility.
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Can Solmatix work with our consultants or main contractor?
Yes. We regularly work with customer teams, consultants, contractors and developers. Our involvement can be tailored to the requirements and stage of the individual project.
Yes. We regularly work with customer teams, consultants, contractors and developers. Our involvement can be tailored to the requirements and stage of the individual project.
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Do you deliver projects outside Northern Ireland?
Yes. Solmatix delivers commercial renewable energy projects across Northern Ireland, Ireland and Great Britain.
Yes. Solmatix delivers commercial renewable energy projects across Northern Ireland, Ireland and Great Britain.
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Will installation disrupt our operations?
Every project is planned around the site and its operating requirements. Our team will agree access, programming, safety procedures and any required shutdowns in advance to help minimise disruption.
Every project is planned around the site and its operating requirements. Our team will agree access, programming, safety procedures and any required shutdowns in advance to help minimise disruption.
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What happens after the system is installed?
Following commissioning, Solmatix provides system information and access to relevant monitoring. Ongoing maintenance, technical support and aftercare services are also available.
Following commissioning, Solmatix provides system information and access to relevant monitoring. Ongoing maintenance, technical support and aftercare services are also available.
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Can you support multi-site organisations?
Yes. Solmatix has experience supporting complex and multi-site requirements. Each location can be assessed individually while forming part of a wider energy strategy or delivery programme.
Yes. Solmatix has experience supporting complex and multi-site requirements. Each location can be assessed individually while forming part of a wider energy strategy or delivery programme.
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How do we begin?
The first step is a conversation about your organisation, sites, energy use and objectives. Our commercial team can then advise on the information required to assess the opportunity.
The first step is a conversation about your organisation, sites, energy use and objectives. Our commercial team can then advise on the information required to assess the opportunity.
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Will solar panels work in Northern Ireland?
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not only direct sunshine. The amount generated will vary throughout the year, but a properly designed system can still produce valuable clean electricity in Northern Ireland.
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not only direct sunshine. The amount generated will vary throughout the year, but a properly designed system can still produce valuable clean electricity in Northern Ireland.
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How do I know if my home is suitable?
Many homes are suitable, including properties with east- or west-facing roofs. Roof space, condition, orientation and shading affect the design, as does your electricity use. We will assess your property before recommending a system.
Many homes are suitable, including properties with east- or west-facing roofs. Roof space, condition, orientation and shading affect the design, as does your electricity use. We will assess your property before recommending a system.
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How much could I save?
Potential savings depend on your electricity use, system size, generation and how much of the electricity you use within your home. Battery storage and EV charging can also affect how much generated energy is used onsite.
Potential savings depend on your electricity use, system size, generation and how much of the electricity you use within your home. Battery storage and EV charging can also affect how much generated energy is used onsite.
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Do I need battery storage?
Solar panels can be installed without a battery. However, storage may help you use more of your generated electricity at times when the panels are producing less. We will assess whether a battery is appropriate for your household.
Solar panels can be installed without a battery. However, storage may help you use more of your generated electricity at times when the panels are producing less. We will assess whether a battery is appropriate for your household.
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Can a battery be added to my existing solar panels?
In many cases, yes. The existing system and proposed battery will need to be assessed for compatibility before a recommendation can be made.
In many cases, yes. The existing system and proposed battery will need to be assessed for compatibility before a recommendation can be made.
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Can I use solar electricity to charge my electric vehicle?
Yes. A suitable home energy system can allow some of the electricity generated by your solar panels to support EV charging. Actual availability will depend on generation and wider household demand.
Yes. A suitable home energy system can allow some of the electricity generated by your solar panels to support EV charging. Actual availability will depend on generation and wider household demand.
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How long does installation take?
A standard residential solar installation typically takes 1-2 days on site once work begins. Battery storage, EV charging, roof complexity or additional electrical work may extend this. On-site installation time is separate from the overall lead time for survey, design, scheduling and any approvals. We will confirm the expected timetable for your property before work starts.
A standard residential solar installation typically takes 1-2 days on site once work begins. Battery storage, EV charging, roof complexity or additional electrical work may extend this. On-site installation time is separate from the overall lead time for survey, design, scheduling and any approvals. We will confirm the expected timetable for your property before work starts.
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Will the installation damage my roof?
The mounting system will be selected for your roof type and installed by experienced personnel. Roof condition and suitability will be considered during the assessment.
The mounting system will be selected for your roof type and installed by experienced personnel. Roof condition and suitability will be considered during the assessment.
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What happens during a power cut?
Most standard grid-connected solar and battery systems automatically shut down during a power cut for safety. Backup capability requires specific compatible equipment and system design. Tell us if backup power is one of your priorities.
Most standard grid-connected solar and battery systems automatically shut down during a power cut for safety. Backup capability requires specific compatible equipment and system design. Tell us if backup power is one of your priorities.
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What happens after installation?
We will commission the system, explain how it works and provide access to relevant monitoring. You will also have access to Solmatix support and aftercare.
We will commission the system, explain how it works and provide access to relevant monitoring. You will also have access to Solmatix support and aftercare.
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How much does residential solar cost
As an indicative guide, our residential solar PV installations typically cost £6,000 – £8,000 approx. This includes battery storage, panels, inverter, mounting, installation, scaffolding, commissioning and applicable VAT. It excludes, EV charging, roof repairs, grid charges and other exclusions. Every home is different, and we will provide a bespoke quote based on your property and chosen equipment. Estimated savings depend on generation, how much electricity you use on site and your tariff; they are not guaranteed.
As an indicative guide, our residential solar PV installations typically cost £6,000 – £8,000 approx. This includes battery storage, panels, inverter, mounting, installation, scaffolding, commissioning and applicable VAT. It excludes, EV charging, roof repairs, grid charges and other exclusions. Every home is different, and we will provide a bespoke quote based on your property and chosen equipment. Estimated savings depend on generation, how much electricity you use on site and your tariff; they are not guaranteed.
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What warranties are included?
Your proposal will set out the warranties for each component and our installation work. Panel product warranties cover manufacturing defects, while panel performance warranties specify the manufacturer’s warranted output over time under its stated conditions. They do not guarantee a particular household saving. Warranty periods vary by manufacturer and model, and batteries may also have cycle, throughput or retained-capacity conditions.
Your proposal will set out the warranties for each component and our installation work. Panel product warranties cover manufacturing defects, while panel performance warranties specify the manufacturer’s warranted output over time under its stated conditions. They do not guarantee a particular household saving. Warranty periods vary by manufacturer and model, and batteries may also have cycle, throughput or retained-capacity conditions.
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Will I need planning permission?
Many domestic rooftop solar installations can proceed without a planning application where the applicable permitted development conditions are met. This depends on the location, property and proposed design. Listed buildings, conservation areas, planning restrictions and some installation types may require additional permissions or consent. We will flag potential requirements during the assessment; your local planning office can confirm the position for your home.
Many domestic rooftop solar installations can proceed without a planning application where the applicable permitted development conditions are met. This depends on the location, property and proposed design. Listed buildings, conservation areas, planning restrictions and some installation types may require additional permissions or consent. We will flag potential requirements during the assessment; your local planning office can confirm the position for your home.
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How are NIE Networks and grid applications handled?
In Northern Ireland, grid-connected solar PV and battery systems must follow the relevant NIE Networks connection process. The proposed equipment and capacity determine the notification or application route, and some systems need approval before connection. Your proposal will explain the applicable steps. For homes elsewhere, the requirements of the relevant network operator apply.
In Northern Ireland, grid-connected solar PV and battery systems must follow the relevant NIE Networks connection process. The proposed equipment and capacity determine the notification or application route, and some systems need approval before connection. Your proposal will explain the applicable steps. For homes elsewhere, the requirements of the relevant network operator apply.
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Can I receive payment for exported electricity?
You may be able to receive payment for surplus electricity sent to the grid, subject to an available export arrangement and its eligibility, metering and documentation requirements. In Northern Ireland, the Smart Export Guarantee does not apply, so you should check the terms of available export offers rather than assume an automatic entitlement. In England, Scotland and Wales, eligible installations may qualify for a Smart Export Guarantee tariff. Rates and terms vary, and export income should not be treated as guaranteed. We can explain the installation documents you may need when discussing an export arrangement.
You may be able to receive payment for surplus electricity sent to the grid, subject to an available export arrangement and its eligibility, metering and documentation requirements. In Northern Ireland, the Smart Export Guarantee does not apply, so you should check the terms of available export offers rather than assume an automatic entitlement. In England, Scotland and Wales, eligible installations may qualify for a Smart Export Guarantee tariff. Rates and terms vary, and export income should not be treated as guaranteed. We can explain the installation documents you may need when discussing an export arrangement.
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Can I spread the cost?
Homeowners can spread the cost through with 0% finance options available and more information available on request.
Homeowners can spread the cost through with 0% finance options available and more information available on request.
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What should I have ready before enquiring?
Your postcode and a recent electricity bill or annual consumption figure are a useful starting point. If available, share photos of your roof and meter location, and tell us about roof age, shading, existing solar or battery equipment and any planned changes to electricity use. Let us know if you want battery storage or EV charging, already own an electric vehicle, or know of any planning restrictions. You can still enquire if you do not have all this information.
Your postcode and a recent electricity bill or annual consumption figure are a useful starting point. If available, share photos of your roof and meter location, and tell us about roof age, shading, existing solar or battery equipment and any planned changes to electricity use. Let us know if you want battery storage or EV charging, already own an electric vehicle, or know of any planning restrictions. You can still enquire if you do not have all this information.
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Are grants or other incentives available?
Support schemes and incentives vary by location, property and applicant eligibility, and can change. We can help you identify relevant options to check, explain what installation information may be needed and clarify whether approval is required before work begins. Eligibility and funding decisions rest with the scheme administrator, and a grant should not be assumed.
At present no grants or incentives are available in Northern Ireland.
Residential customers in Ireland can avail of SSEI grants. More information available via: https://www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants
Support schemes and incentives vary by location, property and applicant eligibility, and can change. We can help you identify relevant options to check, explain what installation information may be needed and clarify whether approval is required before work begins. Eligibility and funding decisions rest with the scheme administrator, and a grant should not be assumed.
At present no grants or incentives are available in Northern Ireland.
Residential customers in Ireland can avail of SSEI grants. More information available via: https://www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants
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Can I add battery storage or an EV charger?
Yes. Solmatix can consider solar PV, battery storage and home EV charging together, based on your household’s current needs and future plans. We will explain the suitability and cost of each option as part of your proposal.
Yes. Solmatix can consider solar PV, battery storage and home EV charging together, based on your household’s current needs and future plans. We will explain the suitability and cost of each option as part of your proposal.
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Is my farm suitable for Solar PV?
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Can solar panels be installed on agricultural sheds?
Can solar panels be installed on agricultural sheds?
Can solar panels be installed on agricultural sheds?
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Is ground-mounted solar an option for my farm?
Is ground-mounted solar an option for my farm?
Is ground-mounted solar an option for my farm?
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How much electricity could my farm generate?
How much electricity could my farm generate?
How much electricity could my farm generate?
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What happens if I generate more electricity than I use?
What happens if I generate more electricity than I use?
What happens if I generate more electricity than I use?
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Could battery storage work for my farm?
Could battery storage work for my farm?
Could battery storage work for my farm?
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What grid connection considerations are involved?
What grid connection considerations are involved?
What grid connection considerations are involved?
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Are grants or funding available for agricultural solar?
Are grants or funding available for agricultural solar?
Are grants or funding available for agricultural solar?
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Can Solmatix maintain an existing agricultural solar system?
Can Solmatix maintain an existing agricultural solar system?
Can Solmatix maintain an existing agricultural solar system?
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Who can request support?
Existing Solmatix customers can request help with their residential, commercial or large-scale renewable energy systems. We may also be able to assist with systems installed by another provider, subject to an initial assessment.
Existing Solmatix customers can request help with their residential, commercial or large-scale renewable energy systems. We may also be able to assist with systems installed by another provider, subject to an initial assessment.
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What information should I provide?
Include the installation address, system type, equipment details and a clear description of the support required. Error codes, screenshots, photographs and relevant documents can help our team assess technical issues.
Include the installation address, system type, equipment details and a clear description of the support required. Error codes, screenshots, photographs and relevant documents can help our team assess technical issues.
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What should I do if my system shows an error message?
Record the complete error message and take a screenshot or photograph if it is safe to do so. Submit the information through our support form. Do not open or interfere with the equipment.
Record the complete error message and take a screenshot or photograph if it is safe to do so. Submit the information through our support form. Do not open or interfere with the equipment.
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My monitoring app is not showing data. Does this mean my system has stopped working?
Not necessarily. Missing monitoring information can sometimes be caused by internet connectivity, router changes or a communication issue. Submit a support request so the cause can be investigated.
Not necessarily. Missing monitoring information can sometimes be caused by internet connectivity, router changes or a communication issue. Submit a support request so the cause can be investigated.
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How often should my solar panels be serviced?
The appropriate maintenance schedule depends on the system, site conditions, manufacturer guidance and any warranty or operational requirements. Our team can recommend a suitable approach following a review of your installation.
The appropriate maintenance schedule depends on the system, site conditions, manufacturer guidance and any warranty or operational requirements. Our team can recommend a suitable approach following a review of your installation.
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Do solar panels need to be cleaned?
Many panels benefit from rainwater and their installed angle, but dirt and debris can build up in some environments. Whether cleaning is appropriate depends on accessibility, panel condition, location and the type of contamination present.
Many panels benefit from rainwater and their installed angle, but dirt and debris can build up in some environments. Whether cleaning is appropriate depends on accessibility, panel condition, location and the type of contamination present.
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Can I clean my own solar panels?
Customers should not access roofs or use methods that could damage the panels. Professional cleaning is recommended where working at height, specialist access or electrical safety considerations are involved.
Customers should not access roofs or use methods that could damage the panels. Professional cleaning is recommended where working at height, specialist access or electrical safety considerations are involved.
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Can cleaning improve generation?
Cleaning may help where dirt, debris or other material is obstructing the panels. The effect will vary between installations, and a reduction in generation may also have another technical cause.
Cleaning may help where dirt, debris or other material is obstructing the panels. The effect will vary between installations, and a reduction in generation may also have another technical cause.
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Can cleaning be combined with an inspection?
Yes, subject to the installation and access arrangements. Select both services on the support form so that we can assess the requirements.
Yes, subject to the installation and access arrangements. Select both services on the support form so that we can assess the requirements.
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Does Solmatix offer maintenance plans?
Maintenance arrangements may be available for eligible residential, commercial and large-scale systems. The scope and frequency will depend on the installation and customer requirements.
Maintenance arrangements may be available for eligible residential, commercial and large-scale systems. The scope and frequency will depend on the installation and customer requirements.
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Is aftercare included in my original installation?
This will depend on the terms of your original contract, warranties and any maintenance agreement. Our team can review the available records and explain what applies to your system.
This will depend on the terms of your original contract, warranties and any maintenance agreement. Our team can review the available records and explain what applies to your system.
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Will my repair be covered by warranty?
Warranty coverage depends on the equipment, installation date, manufacturer’s terms and the nature of the fault. A support request is not automatically accepted as a warranty claim.
Warranty coverage depends on the equipment, installation date, manufacturer’s terms and the nature of the fault. A support request is not automatically accepted as a warranty claim.
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What happens if a replacement component is required?
We will explain the issue, available replacement options, applicable warranty position and any costs before chargeable work is undertaken.
We will explain the issue, available replacement options, applicable warranty position and any costs before chargeable work is undertaken.
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Can you help if my original installer is no longer trading?
Potentially. We will first need to review the equipment, available documentation and condition of the system. An initial inspection or diagnostic charge may apply.
Potentially. We will first need to review the equipment, available documentation and condition of the system. An initial inspection or diagnostic charge may apply.
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Can you add a battery to my existing solar system?
In many cases, battery storage can be added, but the existing system, electrical arrangements and proposed equipment must first be assessed for compatibility.
In many cases, battery storage can be added, but the existing system, electrical arrangements and proposed equipment must first be assessed for compatibility.
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Can you upgrade an older renewable energy system?
Potential upgrades may include battery storage, EV charging, additional generation or replacement monitoring and inverter equipment. All upgrades are subject to technical assessment and applicable approvals.
Potential upgrades may include battery storage, EV charging, additional generation or replacement monitoring and inverter equipment. All upgrades are subject to technical assessment and applicable approvals.
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What happens during a service visit?
The scope will be agreed in advance and may include visual, electrical, operational and monitoring checks. We will explain any issues identified and recommend appropriate next steps.
The scope will be agreed in advance and may include visual, electrical, operational and monitoring checks. We will explain any issues identified and recommend appropriate next steps.
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How quickly will my request be answered?
Requests are reviewed during normal business hours. Response times depend on the nature of the enquiry, the information provided and current demand. Urgent safety issues should not be reported solely through the online form.
Requests are reviewed during normal business hours. Response times depend on the nature of the enquiry, the information provided and current demand. Urgent safety issues should not be reported solely through the online form.
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What should I do in an emergency?
Do not touch or approach equipment that appears damaged, unsafe, excessively hot or affected by smoke or fire. Move to a safe location and contact the appropriate emergency service. The support form is not monitored as an emergency response service.
Do not touch or approach equipment that appears damaged, unsafe, excessively hot or affected by smoke or fire. Move to a safe location and contact the appropriate emergency service. The support form is not monitored as an emergency response service.
Need help with your renewable energy system?
Tell us what support you need and provide as much information as possible.
Whether you are looking for solar panel cleaning, routine servicing, monitoring assistance or help with a technical issue, our team will review your request and explain the appropriate next step.