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Frequently Asked Questions
When and how will I be informed if I am eligible for PV cells to be installed on my property?
Our chosen contractor, Breyer, will write a letter of introduction followed by a letter or phone call to arrange a date to assess your property. You will be informed at the assessment stage if you are eligible.
Do I have to have the work done?
No. However we only have one opportunity to install the panels and want you to gain the benefits from having PV. If you feel you are unsure or feel that you are unable to cope with the disruption this work may cause, you should discuss your concerns with the Resident Liaison Officer.
Do I have to be present when the works are being done?
No. So long as you agree when the survey is being done that you give permission for access and make arrangements with the Resident Liaison Officer at the time.
Will I be charged for this work?
No, neither will your rent change as a direct result of the installation of the panels.
How much will it cost?
There are no costs to the tenant for installation or maintenance, which will be the responsibility of Breyer. Tenants will benefit directly by using the free electricity produced resulting in a reduction of their electricity bills.
How long will the work take?
The installation target for the works is around 2-3 days but may sometimes run over because of issues arising.
Do I have to move anything for the works to be done?
Yes, If you could make a clear access through your property and clear the loft area where indicated at time of assessment. If you have any problems regarding this please contact your Resident Liaison Officer.
Who will be my point of contact at Breyers?
Breyer have a call centre where operators can direct your call appropriately:
| Breyer Call Centre |
0800 0234 974 |
8am - 8pm |
What are the benefits for PV?
The benefits of a typical PV system will be sun free electricity to your household and will reduce your annual usage by one third, so your electricity costs will be greatly reduced and help cut your carbon emissions and footprint. The electricity generated during the day is free to use by you, so run your appliances etc during the daytime and not at night. Guidance will be given at the time of your assessment. Any excess electricity is fed back into the National Grid and the panels will generate electricity during daylight hours throughout the year.
Is PV suitable for my home?
Yes, any home is suitable so long as it meets some basic criteria; the roof must be south, south west or south east facing and cannot be over shadowed by trees or other buildings. The roof must also be strong enough to hold the weight of the panels. Potential properties have been identified subject to an assessment and residents will be contacted accordingly.
What is PV and why is it being installed?
PV stands for Photo-Voltaic and is a technology which converts daylight into electricity. Colchester Borough Council is working hard to reduce carbon emissions within the housing sector and protect tenants against future rises in the cost of electricity. It is estimated that electricity will rise by 40% over the next 5 years; by having PV panels installed you are able to generate your own electricity thus reducing your bills, also it allows Colchester Borough Council to create a new fund for new projects.
How are the PV panels installed?
The PV panels are attached to the roof of your property on rails which are anchored to the roof structure. Access to your loft space will be required to house the inverter and run the cabling to the consumer panel.
Who will be installing these panels?
Breyer Group Plc who is a Romford based company who have won the contract to supply, install and maintain the systems. Full aftercare guidelines will be provided at the installation stage. Solar Bright is a division of the Breyer Group and can be found at www.breyergroup.co.uk
Can I change my energy supplier once the work is finished?
Yes. You can change supplier at any time.
Who maintains the equipment after the panels are installed?
Breyer is responsible for the repairs and maintenance of the panels after installation and this includes annual cleaning of the panels and the annual inspections at no cost to you or Colchester Borough Homes.
My neighbour is having PV cells installed, why am I not?
The reason for this is because not all properties are eligible for PV. This process has been organised by our contractor but if you feel that you should be eligible you can contact the Resident Liaison Officer who can discuss the matter further with you.
