Spirit Energy Homeowner Blog

How Solar Panel Installation Works in the UK: Spirit Energy’s 7-Step Process

Written by Alicja Kopinska | 21 Nov 2025

If you want accurate solar panel quotes, a technical solar survey, and a smooth installation process, this is the exact step-by-step journey Spirit Energy takes UK homeowners through. Use our solar calculator to get instant estimates, then follow the seven steps below to understand precisely what happens next.

Step 1: Initial Enquiry and Solar Estimate

Your solar journey begins when you contact us through our website, phone, or by using our Solar Calculator.
We collect a few key details about your home, such as roof type, electricity usage and whether you're considering battery storage.

This allows us to give you an early indication of expected generation, savings, and the typical solar panel installation cost UK homeowners can expect for a system of your size.

Step 2: Technical Desktop Assessment and Bespoke Design

Next, our technical sales complete a detailed desktop assessment using aerial imagery, shading tools and 3D roof models.

We check:

  • your roof orientation and pitch
  • potential shading from chimneys or trees
  • available space for panels
  • suitability for a battery

We then produce a bespoke system design, generation forecast and outline cost. This stage helps confirm that the system is technically appropriate before any on-site visit.

Step 3: Final Proposal and DNO / Expert Permissions

Once you're happy with the initial design, we prepare a fixed proposal.
It includes:

  • final layout and equipment list
  • accurate pricing
  • projected savings and payback
  • installation schedule
  • Smart Export Guarantee guidance
  • DNO (Distribution Network Operator) approval requirements

DNO permission is needed for grid connection. We handle the entire process for you.

Step 4: Onsite Technical Survey

A qualified member of our install team visits your home for a full technical survey. This ensures your property is safe and suitable before any installation work begins.

We check:

  • roof structure and materials
  • electrical safety and cable routes
  • location for inverter and battery (if chosen)
  • scaffolding access
  • any potential upgrades required

If you have a flat roof, we confirm which mounting structure is appropriate and how ballast or fixings will be applied.

This survey allows us to sign off the final technical design.

Watch our YouTube video series that explains every step of the process: 

Step 5: Professional Installation

Once approvals are in place, we schedule your installation.
Our MCS-accredited installers complete every stage of the system in line with UK regulations and best practice.

A typical installation includes:

  1. Scaffolding and site preparation

  2. Fitting roof anchors and mounting rails

  3. Installing panels on the roof

  4. Installing the inverter and battery (if included)

  5. Electrical wiring and safety testing

  6. Commissioning the system

  7. Submitting MCS certification and DNO notification

Most residential installations in the UK take a few days, depending on system size.

Step 6: System Handover and Monitoring Setup

After installation, we commission the system and walk you through the handover.
You receive:

  • your MCS certificate
  • warranty documents
  • user guides
  • access to the monitoring app
  • guidance on SEG registration so you can export excess energy to the grid

You will learn how to view generation, consumption, battery charge levels and long-term performance.

Step 7: Long-Term Maintenance and Optimisation

Solar systems require very little maintenance, but periodic care helps maintain peak performance.
Spirit Energy provides:

  • panel cleaning and inspections
  • fault diagnosis and repairs
  • inverter and battery support
  • long-term optimisation advice
  • updates on new tariffs and technology

This ensures your system continues to produce reliable savings year after year.

Ready to Get Started?

The fastest way to get your accurate solar possibilities is to try our Solar Calculator, then request a personalised design and quote from our engineering team.

👉 Use the Solar Calculator
👉 Request a Free Solar Quote
👉 Speak to our solar PV experts today

Your clean energy journey starts here.