Different Types of Solar Panel Upgrades

Solar panels are a fantastic investment for UK homeowners, offering lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. But what happens when your system needs a refresh? Whether you’re dealing with ageing panels, wanting to boost general efficiency or looking to add new features to your solar panels, there are a variety of solar panel upgrades available.

At East Yorkshire Solar, we are experts in helping people work out which upgrades are best for them, whether for domestic solar panels or commercial solar panels. In this guide, we will run through all available options and help you make the best decision for your panels.

Solar Panel Replacement: Out with the Old, In with the New

Solar panel technology has come a long way over recent years, with some solar panel installations being more than a decade old. In some of these instances, these solar panels may be degrading, resulting in lower energy output. Replacing them with newer, more efficient models can significantly increase your electricity generation and give you long-term peace of mind.

While people will initially want to consider the outlay of a solar panel upgrade, there are a number of reasons why upgrading is a great decision in the long run.

Why Upgrade?

• Improved Efficiency: Modern solar panels boast higher efficiency ratings, converting more sunlight into electricity to power your home or electric vehicle.
• Increased Power Output: Newer solar panels often come with higher wattage, and this generates more power from the same amount of roof space.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Sleek, all-black panels offer a more modern look compared to older models, which can appear dated.
• Better Warranty: New panels come with updated warranties, providing peace of mind for years to come. At East Yorkshire Solar, all our solar panels come with a comprehensive 10-25 year manufacturers guarantee, and our workmanship is fully insured and backed by a two-year guarantee.

While there are tangible benefits to upgrading your solar panels, there are things you might want to bear in mind before upgrading.

Things to Consider:

• Roof Condition: Ensure your roof is in good condition to support new panels.
• Panel Compatibility: Check if your existing inverter is compatible with new panels.
• Budget: Panel replacement is a significant investment, so factor in costs and potential savings into your budget to help you make an informed decision.

Inverter Upgrade: The Brains Behind the Operation

The inverter is a crucial component of your solar panel system, as it converts the DC electricity generated by the panels into AC electricity that is used in your home. Upgrading your inverter can significantly impact system performance.

Why Upgrade?

• Increased Efficiency: Modern inverters offer higher conversion efficiency, maximising energy output.
• Improved Monitoring: Newer inverters often come with advanced monitoring capabilities, allowing you to track your system’s performance in real-time.
• Optimisation for Different Panel Types: If you’re upgrading your panels, you may need a new inverter that’s compatible with their technology.
• Fault Detection: Smart inverters can detect and diagnose faults within the system, making troubleshooting easier.

Types of Inverter Upgrades:

• String Inverters: A cost-effective option for smaller systems, but a single fault can affect the entire system.
• Microinverters: Offer individual panel optimisation, increasing efficiency and resilience to shading.
• Power Optimisers: A balance between string inverters and microinverters, offering some individual panel control at a lower cost than microinverters.

Battery Storage: Harness the Power of the Sun

Adding battery storage to your solar panel system allows you to store excess energy that is generated during the day and use it either at night or during peak hours. This reduces your reliance on the grid whilst also maximising on your energy savings.

Why Upgrade?

• Increased Self-Consumption: Use more of your own solar energy and reduce your electricity bills in the process.
• Energy Independence: This gives you a double boost, as you’ll become less reliant on the grid and protect yourself from rising energy prices at the same time.
• Backup Power: Battery storage can even provide power during outages, ensuring you have electricity when you need it the most.

Things to Consider:

• Battery Capacity: Make sure you choose a battery size that meets your energy needs and your budget.
• Battery Chemistry: Different battery types (lithium-ion, lead-acid) offer varying performance and lifespans, so this is worth considering when you are upgrading your battery.
• Integration with Existing System: Ensure the battery is compatible with your current solar panel system and inverter.

Smart Monitoring

Upgrading to a smart monitoring system provides you with real-time insights into your solar panel system’s performance. This allows you to identify potential issues ahead of time, track energy generation and consumption, and optimise your system to get maximum efficiency.

Why Upgrade?

• Performance Tracking: Monitor energy production, consumption and savings in real-time, allowing you to have a clear view of how much you’re consuming and saving.
• Fault Detection: Receive alerts about potential issues, allowing for quick resolution before issues become worse.
• Remote Access: Access your system data from anywhere using a smartphone or computer, allowing you to monitor your solar energy on the go.
• Data Analysis: Gain valuable insights into your energy usage patterns and identify areas for improvement.

Expanding Your System

If your energy needs have increased, you may consider expanding your existing solar panel system by adding more panels to your home or company. This can be a cost-effective way to boost your energy generation and further reduce your reliance on the grid.

Why Upgrade?

• Meet Increased Demand: Generate more electricity to power additional appliances or a growing household.
• Maximise Roof Space: Utilise available roof space to increase your system’s capacity.
• Improve Return on Investment: Generate more savings by producing more of your own electricity.

Things to Consider:

• Roof Suitability: Assess your roof’s capacity to accommodate additional panels.
• System Compatibility: Ensure your existing inverter can handle the increased power output.
• Planning Permission: Check if you need planning permission for the expansion.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Choosing the right solar panel upgrade depends on your individual needs and goals. Consider factors such as your budget, energy consumption, roof space and desired level of control.

At East Yorkshire Solar, we use only the very best solar panel brands. We help you to decide whether your solar panels do need upgrading – and which parts – along with offering maintenance and repairs as part of our solar panel services.

By choosing East Yorkshire Solar for your solar panel upgrades, you can be assured that our expert team will deliver the highest quality outcomes whatever your needs. By carefully evaluating your options and consulting with our expert team, you can upgrade your solar panel system to maximise its efficiency, increase your savings and contribute to a greener future.

Further Support

We are here to help, so please do not hesitate to contact our team of experts today for further guidance and advice. 

Email: info@eastyorkshiresolar.co.uk 
Telephone: 01482 230 422