Investing in solar panels is a smart move — for your energy bills, your carbon footprint, and your property value. But with the growing popularity of renewable energy, not all solar companies are created equal. Sadly, we’ve seen a rise in “pop-up” solar installers offering too-good-to-be-true deals, only to disappear months later — leaving customers with no aftercare, no warranties, and no one to turn to when things go wrong.
Here’s what you need to know to protect your investment and why choosing the right installer from the start is crucial.
Red Flags: How to Spot an Unreliable Solar Company
✅ No proven track record Be cautious if a company can’t show you completed projects, testimonials, or case studies. A solid history is essential.
✅ Too-good-to-be-true prices Solar is an investment. If it’s significantly cheaper than others, corners are probably being cut — either on the panels, the installation quality, or the service.
✅ No post-installation support A solar system isn’t just a “fit and forget” job. You need monitoring, system checks, and someone to call if anything goes wrong. Many companies offer no ongoing service, which is risky.
✅ Pushy sales tactics High-pressure sales techniques or limited-time offers are a red flag. A reputable company will take the time to understand your needs and design a system that works for you.
✅ Lack of accreditation Check if the installer is certified by MCS and registered with bodies like RECC or NAPIT. These ensure they meet high industry standards.
Why It’s Important to Choose a Company Built for the Long Term
Solar panels are designed to last 25 years or more. Your installer should be in business as long as your panels are on your roof. If they vanish in a few years, you could be left with:
No technical support
No warranty backup
No system monitoring
No one to maintain or upgrade your system
It’s not just about getting panels on your roof — it’s about who’s standing behind them in 5, 10, or 20 years’ time.
Why Genfit Is the Right Choice
At Genfit, we’re not just here for the install — we’re here for the long haul. Here’s why customers across Chester, North Wales, and the North West trust us with their solar:
🌱 Proven Experience We’ve completed hundreds of residential, commercial, and community energy projects — from schools and leisure centres to family homes.
🔧 Ongoing Support We provide system monitoring, aftercare, and maintenance options to ensure your system performs at its best long into the future.
🛡️ Accredited & Trusted Genfit is MCS certified, NAPIT registered, and a proud member of Community Energy England. Our work meets the highest industry standards.
📈 Bespoke System Design We don’t do one-size-fits-all. Every system is designed specifically for your property, your energy use, and your future needs.
🤝 Built on Trust We’re a B Corp-certified company with a commitment to transparency, sustainability, and doing the right thing — not just the profitable thing.
Thinking About Solar? Don’t Take Risks.
If you’re considering solar panels, choose a company that’ll still be here tomorrow. With Genfit, you’re choosing peace of mind, quality service, and a partner for the future.
As the demand for renewable energy grows, more homeowners and businesses are considering solar panels. But despite the environmental and financial benefits, solar still gets its fair share of scepticism. At Genfit, we believe in helping people make informed decisions — so we’ve taken some of the most common negative opinions about solar and put them under the spotlight.
Here’s what people say — and why it’s not the full story.
💬 “Solar panels are too expensive.”
The reality: While solar panels used to come with a hefty price tag, prices have fallen significantly over the last decade. On top of that, there are finance options available, and businesses may be eligible for tax incentives or grants. More importantly, solar panels can lead to long-term savings on energy bills, often paying for themselves within a few years.
Our take: Think of solar as an investment — not just a purchase. It reduces your reliance on the grid and protects you from rising energy prices. With Genfit, we tailor systems to your needs, ensuring the best return on your investment.
💬 “They don’t work in the UK weather.”
The reality: This is one of the most common myths we hear. Solar panels work on daylight, not just direct sunshine — and the UK gets more than enough of it to make solar worthwhile. In fact, Germany, a leading country in solar, gets similar weather conditions to the UK.
Our take: Modern panels are highly efficient and designed to generate power even on cloudy days. Our systems are engineered to suit UK conditions — and we provide realistic performance estimates so you know what to expect.
💬 “They don’t make much difference to your bills.”
The reality: Installed properly, a solar PV system can significantly cut your electricity bills — especially if you pair it with battery storage to use more of the energy you generate. And with energy prices constantly fluctuating, generating your own power provides real peace of mind.
Our take: We show our customers exactly how much they can save, based on actual usage and system performance. You’ll start seeing the benefits from day one.
💬 “They’re ugly and will ruin the look of my roof.”
The reality: Today’s solar panels are much sleeker and more discreet than older models. For those prioritising aesthetics, we offer all-black panel options and mounting systems that sit closer to the roof.
Our take: We work with you to find a design that looks smart and suits your home or business. We’ve installed systems on modern builds, period properties, schools, offices — even listed buildings (with the right permissions). With the right setup, solar can actually add to your property’s value and appeal.
💬 “It takes too long to break even.”
The reality: Most systems pay for themselves within 5–10 years, sometimes sooner depending on usage and system size. With the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can also earn money by selling excess electricity back to the grid.
Our take: Every installation includes a tailored estimate showing the payback period. And because panels have warranties of 25 years or more, the long-term savings are substantial.
💬 “They require too much maintenance.”
The reality: Solar panels have no moving parts and require very little maintenance. Occasional cleaning and checks are usually all that’s needed to keep them working efficiently.
Our take: We provide system monitoring and maintenance support, so you can rest easy knowing your investment is protected. If issues arise, we’re only a phone call away.
Final Thoughts
It’s normal to have questions and doubts — but many of the concerns about solar are based on outdated information or misunderstandings. At Genfit, we’re here to offer honest advice, tailored solutions, and reliable installations that make solar simple.
If you’re considering switching to solar but still have questions, get in touch with our team. We’ll walk you through the pros, the cons, and everything in between.
Intro: If you’ve heard about solar energy but aren’t sure what a “solar PV system” actually is, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a homeowner thinking about cutting your energy bills or a business looking to reduce your carbon footprint, understanding the basics is the first step.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explain exactly what a solar PV system is, how it works, and what you need to know before installing one.
1. What Does ‘PV’ Stand For?
PV stands for Photovoltaic. A solar PV system uses photovoltaic cells (usually in solar panels) to convert sunlight into electricity.
These systems are different from solar thermal systems, which use the sun to heat water. Solar PV is about generating electricity, for powering your lights, appliances, devices, and more.
2. What Are the Main Parts of a Solar PV System?
A typical solar PV setup includes:
Solar Panels: Usually mounted on your roof or a ground frame, these panels capture sunlight and generate DC electricity.
Inverter: This device converts the DC electricity from the panels into AC electricity, the type your home or business uses.
Generation Meter: Tracks how much energy your system produces.
Battery Storage (Optional): Stores excess energy so you can use it later, for example, at night or on cloudy days.
Export Meter (for SEG): Allows you to export unused electricity back to the grid and get paid via Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) schemes.
3. How Does a Solar PV System Work?
Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown:
Sunlight hits the solar panels, generating DC electricity.
The inverter converts it into usable AC electricity.
Your property uses this electricity to power lights, appliances, etc.
Any unused energy is either stored (if you have a battery) or sent back to the grid.
You draw electricity from the grid only when needed (like at night or in winter).
4. Do Solar Panels Work When It’s Cloudy or Raining?
Yes, solar panels still work in cloudy weather, just at reduced efficiency. In the UK, a well-installed system can generate electricity all year round, even on overcast days.
5. How Much Space Do I Need?
A typical UK home solar PV system (around 3.5kW–4kW) needs roughly 15–20m² of roof space. Larger systems for businesses or public buildings will vary depending on the energy demand and available space.
6. What Are the Benefits of Solar PV?
✅ Lower energy bills
✅ Reduced carbon footprint
✅ Protection from rising energy costs
✅ Long system lifespan (25+ years)
✅ Increased energy independence
7. Is It Right for You?
If you own your property, have a suitable roof (ideally south-facing with minimal shading), and use electricity during the day, a solar PV system could be a great fit.
Commercial buildings, schools, farms, and community centres can benefit even more due to larger scale and higher daytime usage.
Final Thoughts: A solar PV system is a clean, efficient way to take control of your energy. It might seem technical at first, but once you understand the basics, it’s clear why so many homes and businesses across the UK are making the switch.
Got Questions or Ready to Start? At Genfit, we make solar simple. Whether you want a quick chat or a detailed quote, our team is here to help. Just get in touch — we’ll guide you through it, no jargon, no pressure.
Schools across the UK are under pressure to reduce costs, cut carbon emissions, and lead by example when it comes to sustainability. More than ever, solar PV is emerging as a practical and impactful solution — and at Genfit, we’re seeing a big rise in educational buildings making the switch to solar energy.
In this blog, we explore why solar for schools is growing in popularity, the benefits it brings, and how it works in practice.
1. Why Are Schools Going Solar?
Schools typically have large roof spaces and high daytime energy usage, which makes them ideal for solar PV. With rising energy bills and tighter budgets, solar can offer serious savings — plus it’s a visible commitment to sustainability that benefits students and staff alike.
2. The Key Benefits of Solar for Schools
✅ Lower Energy Bills
Solar panels help reduce dependency on the grid, lowering electricity costs year after year. Many schools can save thousands annually — money that can be reinvested into teaching, facilities, or student support.
✅ Reduce Carbon Emissions
Solar power is clean and renewable. Installing panels helps schools meet environmental targets and become more eco-conscious institutions.
✅ Educational Value
A solar installation can become a real-life teaching tool. Pupils can learn about energy, climate change, and sustainability in a hands-on way — especially if the school uses live performance data in the classroom.
✅ Long-Term Value
Once installed, solar panels typically last 25+ years and require very little maintenance. Schools can benefit from long-term savings and improved energy resilience.
3. Funding Solar in the Education Sector
While some schools fund solar installations outright, others work with community energy groups, councils, or apply for grants. Genfit has worked with several schools and trusts who’ve secured funding through innovative routes, helping them go solar with minimal upfront costs.
4. Real Examples: Solar in Action
At Genfit, we’ve completed installations at primary and secondary schools across the UK — from newly built campuses to historic schools retrofitting solar for the first time.
In one project, we installed a solar PV system on a school still under construction, helping it open as a future-ready, low-carbon building from day one. In another, a community energy partnership made it possible for a local school to generate clean energy and lower its carbon footprint without using its own budget.
5. Getting Started: Is Solar Right for Your School?
If your school or trust is exploring energy efficiency, solar is worth serious consideration. Our team can provide a free feasibility assessment to help you understand:
Roof suitability
Estimated annual savings
CO₂ reductions
Payback period
Funding options
Final Word: Solar panels aren’t just a green option — they’re a smart one. For schools, the benefits go well beyond saving money: it’s about investing in the next generation and making sustainability part of everyday learning.
Ready to Explore Solar for Your School? Genfit has years of experience working with schools and education trusts across the UK. Get in touch to arrange a free site survey or to ask us any questions.
As the solar industry advances, ensuring high performance, safety and cybersecurity in PV systems has become more crucial than ever. A new independent report by VDE Renewables – a global authority on renewable energy testing and certification – has validated SolarEdge’s position as a market leader in delivering all three.
At Genfit, we’re proud to install SolarEdge inverter and Power Optimizer systems, and this latest study further strengthens our confidence in offering these high-performing, secure and future-proof technologies to our customers.
✅ Industry-Leading Safety Standards
VDE Renewables’ assessment highlights how SolarEdge’s MLPE (Module-Level Power Electronics) technology exceeds international safety standards. The system’s integrated protection mechanisms – including SafeDC™, rapid shutdown, module-level monitoring, and Sense Connect – significantly reduce fire risk and electrical hazards.
Sense Connect, in particular, proactively identifies overheating connectors long before they become a danger, helping to prevent thermal events and offering critical peace of mind to system owners, emergency responders, and maintenance teams.
🔒 Robust Cybersecurity Protection
Cybersecurity is an emerging concern in increasingly digitised and connected solar systems. SolarEdge’s built-in cybersecurity architecture was found to comply with international standards such as IEC 62443, ISO/IEC 27001, and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
The report recognised SolarEdge’s commitment to grid resilience with features including:
Encrypted communication protocols
Secure remote firmware updates
Multi-level access control
Continuous system monitoring
Penetration-tested system design
As solar systems become more integrated into national infrastructure, protecting them from cyber threats is no longer optional – it’s essential.
⚡ Proven Higher Energy Yields
Performance testing within the VDE study showed that SolarEdge systems deliver significantly more energy than traditional string inverters:
4% more energy on simple rooftops
10.5% more energy on complex rooftops
These impressive gains are driven by SolarEdge’s Power Optimizers and advanced Buck and Boost technology, which allow each panel to operate independently at its maximum efficiency. The SolarEdge ONE platform further enhances performance by adapting to fixed and dynamic electricity tariffs, supporting larger systems, and reducing Balance of System (BoS) costs.
Trusted Technology for the Future
Arne Gruenewald from VDE Renewables commented, “SolarEdge’s technology demonstrates its strategic market position in safety, cybersecurity, and performance – criteria that are essential for the technology’s long-term viability and trust.”
At Genfit, we’re committed to delivering only the best technology to our customers, and that’s why SolarEdge continues to be a key part of our offering. Whether you’re installing solar for your home or business, you can rest assured you’re investing in a system that’s smart, secure, and built to deliver more energy for years to come.
For many businesses, ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) targets and Net Zero goals are no longer just a ‘nice to have’, they’re becoming part of day-to-day decision-making, supply chain expectations, and stakeholder accountability.
But reaching those goals doesn’t have to be complex. One of the most direct, proven ways to cut carbon and demonstrate environmental action is by installing solar panels.
Here’s how solar power can help your business hit its ESG and Net Zero targets, and deliver long-term value at the same time.
✅ Environmental Impact: Cut Your Carbon Footprint at Source
Generating your own electricity with solar means you’re reducing your reliance on grid power, which often comes from fossil fuels. A well-designed solar system can significantly lower your carbon emissions from energy use — one of the key contributors to a business’s overall environmental impact.
Whether you’re reporting on carbon reductions for ESG or working toward a formal Net Zero commitment, solar helps you take measurable, trackable action.
💰 Financial Savings That Support Long-Term Sustainability
It’s not just about carbon, solar also reduces operating costs. Lower energy bills = more room to invest in other sustainability initiatives, or simply protect your bottom line in the face of rising electricity prices.
And thanks to improved technology and falling costs, the payback period for commercial solar is now often under 7 years, with decades of clean energy to follow.
📊 ESG Reporting: Show Real Progress, Not Just Promises
Solar installations provide tangible data, kilowatt-hours generated, CO2 saved, which you can use in ESG reports, sustainability statements, and stakeholder updates.
Whether you’re aiming to meet internal goals, qualify for procurement frameworks, or appeal to eco-conscious customers, solar gives you something real to point to.
🌍 Supporting Broader Social & Environmental Goals
If you’re a school, local authority, or community organisation, going solar also sets an example. It’s a visible sign of leadership on climate action and can be used to educate, inspire, or influence others, from pupils and staff to the wider public.
Even in the private sector, solar can boost your brand’s reputation and align with growing customer expectations around environmental responsibility.
🏢 Future-Proofing Your Business
Energy security is becoming a key part of sustainable business planning. Solar (especially when combined with battery storage) makes your site more resilient and self-sufficient, reducing exposure to market volatility and supply chain risks.
It’s a smart move, both for the planet and for long-term business stability.
Real Impact. No Greenwashing.
At Genfit, we work with organisations that are serious about doing things the right way. No greenwashing, no gimmicks, just well-designed solar systems that help you make meaningful progress on ESG and Net Zero goals.
Let’s Talk
Whether you’re just starting out with ESG or you’re already on the road to Net Zero, we’re here to help you explore what solar could do for your business.
📞 Call us on 0344 567 9032 🌐 Or visit www.genfit.co.uk to book a free consultation.
