Solar Energy Blog
Practical guides, installation advice and industry news from Squirrel Energy — a Lancashire-based solar and renewable energy installer serving homes, farms and businesses across the North of England.
Written by installers, not marketers
Every article on this blog is written or reviewed by the Squirrel Energy installation team. We cover the questions we hear most often from customers across Lancashire, Yorkshire and Greater Manchester — from "how many panels do I need?" to "is a heat pump worth it in an older property?"
We are a NAPIT-registered, MCS-certified installer based in Padiham. We do not subcontract, and we have been installing solar panels and battery storage systems since the early days of the feed-in tariff. Our guides reflect real-world experience, not manufacturer marketing copy.
If you have a question that is not covered here, call us on 01282 550000 or use our free energy audit form — we are happy to give straightforward advice with no sales pressure.
Topics we cover
Solar Panels
How solar PV works, panel types, system sizing, roof suitability, planning rules, and what to expect from a professional installation in the North of England.
Battery Storage
Comparing home battery systems — Sunsynk, SolaX, Dyness and Fogstar — including capacity, chemistry, warranty terms, and how to maximise self-consumption.
EV Charging
OZEV-approved home charger installation, smart charging, pairing with solar, and the real-world cost of charging an electric vehicle from your own roof.
Commercial Solar
Large-scale rooftop and ground-mount solar for businesses, warehouses and farms — ROI calculations, DNO applications, capital allowances and Power Purchase Agreements.
Heat Pumps
Air source heat pump technology, MCS installation requirements, compatibility with existing heating systems, and how heat pumps pair with solar panels.
Grants & Incentives
The Smart Export Guarantee, 0% VAT on solar, ECO4, the Great British Insulation Scheme, and commercial capital allowances — what is available and who qualifies.
Latest articles
How to Build a Farm Microgrid: Benefits for Farms
How Burnley Businesses Can Improve Energy Independence
Microgrid Technology for Small Farms: A Practical Guide
9 Best Solar Options for Burnley Manufacturing Plants in 2026
How Does a Renewable Energy Site Survey Work?
7 Steps to Calculate Solar Power Return on Investment
How to Design a Bespoke Wind Turbine System for Your Site
What Support Should Commercial Battery Storage Include?
The Ultimate Guide to Renewable Energy for Agricultural Businesses
Solar Panel Costs in Burnley 2026: What You'll Really Pay
Commercial Battery Storage ROI Analysis: 2026 UK Review
Commercial Renewable Energy Installation Timeline 2026
Ready to go solar?
Our team covers Lancashire, Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. We offer a free, no-obligation energy audit — we visit your property, assess your roof and energy use, and give you a detailed written quote.