Solar panel and battery installation in a conservation area
In October 2023, the Good Energy team installed 11 solar panels and a Tesla Powerwall 2 at a home in a conservation area in Sevenoaks, Kent. Read on to find out how our team satisfied local planning regulations to create an aesthetic and high performing solar panel system.
Key stats
- 11 Peimar 300w Solar Panels
- Tesla Powerwall & Gateway
- Enphase IQ7 Microinverters
- Estimated Annual Energy Output: 3000 kWh
The challenge: Strict planning regulations prohibited black solar panels
The Wrights live in Sevenoaks, Kent, a conservation area with strict local council regulations aimed at preserving traditional architectural character. Standard solar panels were not permitted, as their modern appearance clashed with the home’s distinctive burnt red roof tiles.
A chimney on the roof caused partial shading, threatening to reduce the efficiency of a string-solar array. What’s more, the homeowner works from home, and wanted a solution that would provide back up power in the event of a powercut.
The solution: Custom-coloured solar panels, with a Tesla Powerwall
To meet aesthetic requirements, Good Energy sourced burnt red solar panels from Italy. These panels blended seamlessly with the roof tiles, satisfying council stipulations and preserving the home’s character.
To overcome shading challenges, the system used Enphase micro-inverters, allowing each solar panel to operate independently. This ensured that partial shading from the chimney had minimal impact on overall energy generation.
Finally, a Tesla Powerwall was installed to provide reliable backup during power outages. It also enables the homeowner to store excess solar energy for use at night, boosting self-sufficiency and energy independence.
The system significantly reduces the home’s reliance on grid electricity, contributing to lower carbon emissions and lower energy bills.
