Solar Panel Installers Essex

05/09/2023

SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS ESSEX. BRITISH HOUSEHOLDS INSTALLING SOLAR PANELS AND HEAT PUMPS AT RECORD LEVELS AS UTILITY COSTS RISE.
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British households are making more green energy upgrades than ever before after installing a record number of solar panels and heat pumps in the first half of the year, according to the industry’s official standards body.

The industry figures show there were more green energy installations in June than in previous years.

On average, more than 17,000 households installed solar panels every month this year, while the number of homes installing heat pumps reached 3,000 a month for the first time, according to the data.

Each month of 2023 was a record month for battery technologies, as installation figures consistently surpassed the month before, bringing the total number of batteries installed in homes and businesses across the UK to more than 1,000 in 2023 so far.

The industry’s accreditation body, MCS, said the green energy boom has put households on track to install more renewable energy than the last record set in 2012, when many raced to install solar panels before government subsidies were reduced.

Ian Rippin, the chief executive of MCS, said: “As the cost of energy continues to grow, we are seeing more people turn to renewable technology to generate their own energy and heat at home.”

Small-scale renewable energy installations at homes and businesses across the UK now have a total capacity of 4 gigawatts (GW), greater than the nuclear power plant under construction at Hinkley Point and almost double the capacity of Europe’s biggest gas power plant near Pembroke in Wales.

“We need to continue to push this expansion to meet our shared national ambitions to reach net zero by 2050. More consumers have the confidence to invest in small-scale renewables now than ever, but we have to make that transition even easier,” Rippin said.

The UK government has set targets to reach 70GW of solar capacity by 2035 and to install 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028. But the uptake of heat pumps has fallen far short of the government’s aim, despite £5,000 grants to reduce the cost of replacing an old gas boiler.

In total there were 17,920 heat pump installations in the first six months of 2023, according to MCS data, meaning that if the same pace continued over the second half of the year, heat pump installations would reach just 6% of the government’s target.

Bean Beanland, the director of external affairs at the Heat Pump Federation, said there was “a tremendous job of work to do” to ensure that heat pump technology becomes mainstream over the remainder of this decade.

The accreditation body believes that one of the biggest barriers to the government’s heat pump ambitions is the need to recruit enough qualified, skilled installers to meet the demand for trustworthy advice and installations.

There are 1,500 heat pump installation companies certified in the UK, but an estimated 50,000 workers will be needed to meet government targets. So far this year, more than 850 new contractors have become MCS certified, more than the number who signed up during the whole of 2022.

Beanland added: “It is essential that the lowest-carbon heat becomes the lowest-cost heat, so that homeowners and landlords can justify the transition away from polluting fossil fuels. If this is coupled to a genuine affordability and future funding package, then households will be able to contribute to climate change mitigation with confidence and at a cost that is fair to all.”

NOTE: We claim no right or title to this article which appears in theguardian dot com. Author acknowledged as Jillian Ambrose.
Get a quote from the top Essex solar panel installers.

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Solar Panel Installers Essex. Free SolarQuote best deals now. We install quality solar panels all over Essex and cover Chelmsford, Basildon, Colchester, Brentwood, Harlow, Braintree. Stop high utlity bills today. Go green and eco-friendly with renewables and reduce carbon footprint.

06/06/2023

SOLAR PANELS FOR YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY IN ESSEX? WHY IT'S A GOOD IDEA. SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS ESSEX.

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Solar energy is one of the most abundant and clean sources of power in the world. It can be harnessed by using solar panels, which are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. Solar panels can be installed on rooftops, ground-mounted systems, car parks, or even floating structures.

Commercial properties, such as offices, factories, warehouses, shops, schools, or hospitals, can benefit from installing solar panels in many ways. In this article, we will explore some of the main advantages of solar panels for commercial properties in Essex UK, based on the latest data and research.

Cost Savings

One of the most obvious benefits of solar panels is that they can reduce the electricity bills of commercial properties. According to GreenMatch, a medium-sized commercial solar array of 30 kWp (kilowatts peak) can cut the electricity bills by £5,400 per year. This is because solar panels generate free, green electricity during daytime hours, lowering the demand for energy from the grid.

Moreover, solar panels can also provide a source of income for commercial properties. Under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, businesses can sell any excess electricity they generate to utility companies at a fixed rate. The SEG rate varies depending on the supplier and the time of day, but it can range from 1.5p to 5.6p per kWh. This means that a 30 kWp system could earn up to £1,680 per year by exporting electricity to the grid.

Another way that solar panels can save money for commercial properties is by reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and protecting them from price fluctuations. The cost of electricity from the grid is expected to rise in the future due to increasing demand and environmental regulations. By generating their own electricity from solar panels, businesses can avoid these price hikes and enjoy more financial stability.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Another benefit of solar panels is that they can help commercial properties reduce their carbon footprint and environmental impact. A carbon footprint is a measure of how much greenhouse gases a business emits into the atmosphere through its activities. Reducing the carbon footprint is important for mitigating climate change and preserving natural resources.

Solar energy is renewable and carbon neutral, meaning that it does not produce any harmful emissions or contribute to global warming. According to Energy Saving Trust, a typical 4 kWp solar panel system can save around 1.6 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year compared to conventional electricity generation. For a larger 30 kWp system, this would amount to 12 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

By switching to solar energy, commercial properties can demonstrate their commitment to green and sustainable practices and improve their corporate social responsibility. This can enhance their reputation and brand image among customers, investors, employees, and stakeholders.

It can also help them comply with environmental regulations and standards, such as the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC) or the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS).

Low Risk Investment

Another benefit of solar panels is that they are a low-risk investment that can provide a high return over time. Solar panels have a long lifespan of 25 years or more and require minimal maintenance. They are also durable and resistant to weather conditions and vandalism.

The initial cost of installing solar panels can be recovered within a few years through savings and income from electricity generation and export. According to The Eco Experts, the average payback period for a commercial solar panel system in the UK is 7 years. However, this can vary depending on the size, location, orientation, and efficiency of the system.

The return on investment (ROI) for solar panels can be calculated by dividing the annual savings and income by the initial cost of installation. The ROI for a commercial solar panel system in the UK can range from 10% to 20%. This means that for every £1 invested in solar panels, businesses can expect to earn £0.10 to £0.20 per year.

To make solar panels more affordable and accessible for commercial properties, there are various financing options available, such as loans, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), or green bonds. These options can help businesses spread the cost of installation over time and benefit from tax breaks and incentives.

Energy Security

Another benefit of solar panels is that they can enhance the energy security and resilience of commercial properties. Energy security refers to the ability to access reliable and affordable energy sources without disruption or dependence on external factors.

By generating their own electricity from solar panels, commercial properties can reduce their dependence on the grid and avoid power outages, blackouts, or brownouts that can affect their operations and productivity. They can also avoid potential conflicts or disputes over energy resources or supplies in the future.

Furthermore, solar panels can also improve the energy efficiency and performance of commercial properties. Solar panels can reduce the heat gain and loss through the roof, which can lower the cooling and heating costs and improve the thermal comfort of the building. Solar panels can also provide shading and protection for the roof, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.

Conclusion

Solar panels are a smart and sustainable choice for commercial properties in Essex UK. They can provide multiple benefits, such as:

• Cost savings: Solar panels can reduce the electricity bills, provide income from exporting excess electricity, and protect from price fluctuations.

• Lower carbon footprint: Solar panels can reduce the greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact of commercial properties.

• Low risk investment: Solar panels can provide a high return on investment over time and have various financing options available.

• Energy security: Solar panels can reduce the dependence on the grid and improve the energy efficiency and performance of commercial properties.

If you are interested in installing solar panels for your commercial property in Essex, you can contact SolarQuote. SolarQuote will put you in contact with the top-rated solar panel installers in Essex.

They will provide you with a free quote and consultation, as well as expert advice and guidance on the best solar panel system for your needs.

www.essexsolarpanelinstallers.co.uk

Please note figures, savings and systems quoted may not be relevant to your exact property or location. You are strongly advised to contact your local authority and consult a professional solar system technician before making any financial decisions.

References 2023: Geogreenpower, Greenmatch, Energy Savings Trust, The Eco Experts.

17/05/2023

THE PROS AND CONS OF USING SOLAR PANELS IN YOUR HOME. SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS ESSEX. 2023.

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Pros:

• Decreases use of non-renewable resources: Solar energy is a renewable energy and clean source of energy that does not rely on fossil fuels or other finite resources. By using solar panels, you can reduce your carbon footprint and help combat climate change.

• Reduces power bill: Solar panels can help you save money on your electricity bills by generating your own power from the sun. Depending on your location, system size, and energy usage, you could save anywhere from £10,000 to £30,000 over a 20-year period. You may also be able to sell excess power back to the grid and earn some income.

• Energy independence: Solar panels can provide you with energy security and independence from the utility grid. You can avoid power outages, price fluctuations, and supply disruptions that may affect conventional sources of electricity.

• Improved home value: Solar panels may increase the value of your home by making it more attractive to potential buyers who are looking for energy-efficient and eco-friendly features. Solar panels may also assist with some property taxes subject to local and Government regulations.

• Longevity and little maintenance: Solar panels are designed to last for 20 to 40 years with minimal maintenance. They usually come with warranties that cover any defects or damages for a certain period of time.

Cons:

• High upfront costs: Solar panels can be expensive to install, ranging from £5,000 to £20,000 for a typical solar residential system. The cost depends on the size, quality, and type of the panels, as well as the installation fees and potential permits required.

• Sunlight dependent: Solar panels only produce electricity when there is enough sunlight available. This means that they may not work so well in cloudy or rainy days, or during the night. You may need to rely on battery storage or backup generators to supplement your power needs during these times.

• Space constraints: Solar panels require a large and flat surface area to be installed, preferably on a south-facing roof that is not shaded by trees or buildings. If you do not have enough space or suitable conditions for solar panels, you may have to look for other options or compromise on the system size and output.

• Difficulty of moving them: Solar panels are not easy to move or relocate once they are installed. If you plan to sell or move out of your home, you may have to transfer the ownership of the system to the new owner or pay a fee to remove and reinstall the panels elsewhere.

• Possible restrictions from the council or HOA agreements: Some councils or Homeowners Associations (HOAs) may have rules or regulations that limit or prohibit the installation of solar panels on your home. You may have to get approval before installing solar panels or face fines or legal action if you violate their policies.

Note: Information provided and figures are for general information only. We strongly recommend you seek professional advice from a qualified solar panel installer and your local council before making any financial decisions.

For more information on installing solar panels and a no obligation quotation, contact SolarQuote who will put you in contact with the top solar panel installers in Essex.

www.essexsolarpanelinstallers.co.uk

15/05/2023

THINKING OF GOING SOLAR? TOP SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS IN ESSEX. GET A FREE SOLARQUOTE. BEST DEALS ARE HERE RIGHT NOW.

Residential And Commercial. Save On Your Energy Bills And Reduce Carbon Footprint.
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Did you know that solar panels can cut your electricity bills by up to 35%? And that they can also increase the value of your home by up to 15%? Not to mention the positive impact they have on the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.

But installing solar panels is not a DIY project. You need a professional and experienced company to do it right. That’s why you need SolarQuote.

Residential or commercial, SolarQuote will put you in direct contact with the leading solar panel installers in Essex.

They have installed thousands of solar panels for happy customers right across the county. You will get:

• A free no obligation quote
• An on-site inspection and proper survey
• A friendly and knowledgeable team that will answer all your solar power questions
• A fast and hassle-free installation process
• A manufacturer’s warranty and unrivalled customer support service

Don’t miss this chance to go green and save money. Contact us today and get your free quote. You’ll be amazed by how much you can save with SolarQuote!

www.essexsolarpanelinstallers.co.uk

15/05/2023

THINKING OF GOING DIY ON SOLAR PANELS? SOLARQUOTE FOR THE BEST SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS ESSEX MAY JUST BE YOUR ANSWER.

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Installing solar panels in your house can be a great way to save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint. However, it is not a simple or easy process. According to EnergySage, there are five main steps to installing a solar panel system:

1. An engineering site visit: A solar installer will visit your home to evaluate your roof condition, angle, and shading, as well as take measurements and inspect your electrical panel.

2. Permits and documentation: Your installer will help you obtain the necessary permits and paperwork from your local authorities and utility company. This may take several weeks or months depending on where you live.

3. Ordering equipment: Your installer will order the solar panels, inverters, mounting hardware, and other components for your system. You may have some options to choose from depending on your budget and preferences.

4. The solar panel installation: Your installer will schedule a date to install the solar panels on your roof. This may take one or two days depending on the size and complexity of your system. The installer will also connect the panels to the inverter and the electrical grid.

5. Approval and interconnection: Your utility company will inspect and approve your system before you can start using it. They will also install a net meter that tracks how much electricity you produce and consume.

As you can see, installing solar panels in your house is not a DIY project. You will need to hire a qualified and experienced solar installer who can handle all the technical and logistical aspects of the installation. You will also need to pay for the equipment and labour costs, which can vary depending on your location, system size, and incentives available.

If you are interested in going solar, you can use SolarQuote to get in contact with the best solar panel installers in Essex.

You should also check out local council and Government websites for more information and resources on how to go solar, plus avail of current incentives and grants that may be available.

05/05/2023

6,600 ESSEX RESIDENTS SIGN UP FOR SOLAR TOGETHER ESSEX. SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS ESSEX.

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Over 6,600 Essex residents signed up for Solar Together Essex, a group buying scheme for solar panels and battery storage.
This is the fourth time that Essex County Council has run the scheme and the most successful to date.

By using the buying power of the group, residents can expect a competitive price compared to the open market. This year’s applicants will receive an average discount of 32% based on the average installation of 12 panels per household.

From this week, applicants will begin to receive their personalised recommendation and quotation.

There was no obligation to go ahead, and applicants had until 21 April to make a decision. If they decided to proceed, once the details are passed to the installer, then a date will be set for a technical survey.

Owing to the popularity of this year’s scheme, the closing date was extended until 21 April to allow any new applicants to join the group and benefit from the discounted rates.

Essex County Council works in partnership with independent experts iChoosr to deliver the scheme. It operates via an auction system with pre-approved suppliers bidding for the work. This year two suppliers have been appointed to cover the county.

Councillor Peter Schwier, Essex County Council’s Climate Czar said: “I’m really pleased with the response to this round of Solar Together Essex. With energy bills climbing, solar panels can be a sound investment, helping to cut future energy bills by generating your own electricity.

“As a renewable source of energy, solar energy is an ideal way to cut your carbon emissions and to contribute towards a greener, more sustainable future.”

Les Flack from St Lawrence Bay had 18 panels installed in January 2022. He said: “The process for application was really easy. Initially thinking about the tech felt a little bit overwhelming but I found the group question and answer video call really helpful. I needn’t have worried about the tech as once in place it just generates energy – easy!

“Having this system in place is a great feeling, we are reducing emissions and will hopefully recoup our costs in not many years, the energy crisis makes that ever more likely. We feel it will be a good investment. “

Sarah Mudd from Stock said: “I have just had an email from my energy supplier letting me know they are reducing my energy bill. I have already recommended the process to my sister.”

Thinking of going solar? Get your FREE SolarQuote today. No obligation and get expert advice from the top solar panel installers in Essex.

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Solar panel installers in Essex. Best prices. Best deals. Chelmsford, Basildon, Colchester, Brentwood, Harlow, Braintree. SolarQuote. Stop high utlity bills today. Trained solar panel companies. We instal solar panels in all Essex. Go green and eco-friendly with renewables solar power.

02/05/2023

READY TO GO SOLAR? HERE’S YOUR QUICK GUIDE. SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS ESSEX 2023.

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A typical household solar panel installation consists of several components that work together to convert sunlight into electricity that can be used by the home or sent back to the grid. The main elements of a solar panel system are:

• Solar panels: These are the devices that capture the sun’s energy and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. There are three types of solar panels available: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are both composed of cells made out of silicon. The silicon pieces are assembled to form a rectangle and covered with a glass sheet. Thin film panels are made by depositing a thin layer of photovoltaic material on a substrate, such as glass or metal.

• Solar inverter: This is the device that converts the DC electricity from the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used by the home appliances or fed into the grid. There are two types of inverters: string inverters and microinverters. String inverters connect multiple solar panels in a series and convert their combined output into AC electricity. Microinverters are attached to each individual solar panel and convert their output separately, which can improve efficiency and performance.

• Solar racking: This is the mounting system that secures the solar panels to the roof or the ground. Solar racking can vary depending on the type and size of the solar panels, the roof pitch and orientation, and the local weather conditions. Solar racking should be sturdy, durable, and compatible with the roof material.

• Net meter: This is a special meter that measures the amount of electricity that is consumed by the home and the amount that is exported to the grid from the solar panel system. Net metering is a policy that allows homeowners to receive credits for the excess electricity they generate with their solar panels, which can lower their utility bills. Net metering rules and rates vary by state and utility company.

• Solar performance monitoring: This is a system that tracks and displays the performance of the solar panel system, such as how much electricity it produces, how much it saves, and how much carbon dioxide it avoids. Solar performance monitoring can be done through online platforms, mobile apps, or dedicated devices.

Solar performance monitoring can help homeowners optimize their solar panel system and detect any issues or malfunctions.
These are some of the basic elements of a typical household solar panel installation. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may also want to consider other components, such as battery storage, backup generators, or smart home devices that can integrate with your solar panel system.

Choosing the best type of solar panel for your home depends on several factors, such as your budget, your roof space, your energy needs, and your environmental preferences. There are three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before making a decision.

• Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient and durable type of solar panel. They are made of high-purity silicon cells that have a uniform black color and a rectangular shape. Monocrystalline panels can produce more electricity per square foot than other types of panels, which means they require less roof space. They also perform well in low-light and high-temperature conditions. However, monocrystalline panels are also the most expensive type of solar panel, and they produce more waste during manufacturing.

• Polycrystalline solar panels are the most environmentally friendly type of solar panel. They are made of multiple silicon crystals that have a blue color and a square shape. Polycrystalline panels use less silicon and energy during manufacturing than monocrystalline panels, which reduces their environmental impact.

They are also cheaper than monocrystalline panels, which makes them more affordable for many homeowners. However, polycrystalline panels are less efficient and durable than monocrystalline panels, and they perform poorly in high-temperature conditions.

• Thin-film solar panels are the most flexible and lightweight type of solar panel. They are made of thin layers of photovoltaic material that can be applied to various surfaces, such as glass, metal, or plastic. Thin-film panels can be easily installed on curved or irregular roofs or integrated into building materials.

They are also resistant to shading and high temperatures. However, thin-film panels are the least efficient and reliable type of solar panel, and they require more roof space than other types of panels. They also degrade faster than other types of panels and have shorter warranties.

To choose the best type of solar panel for your home, you should compare the cost, efficiency, durability, warranty, and aesthetics of each type of panel. You should also consult with a reputable solar installer who can assess your roof condition, orientation, and shading, and recommend the best option for your specific situation.

Going solar is a great way to save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint, but it requires careful planning and research to find the best solar panel for your home.

The cost of a solar panel system depends on several factors, such as the size of the system, the type of the panels, the location of your home, and the availability of incentives and rebates. According to various sources, the average cost of a solar panel system in 2022 ranges from £6,000 to $30,000 before applying tax credits or other incentives. This works out to between £1 and £5 per watt of solar installed, depending on the type of panel.

The most common size for a residential solar panel system is 6 kilowatts (kW), which can produce enough electricity to cover the needs of an average household. The average cost of a 6 kW system in 2022 is between £6,000 and £21,000 before tax credits, and between £10,000 and £15,000 after tax credits. However, this can vary widely depending on your location and the type of panel you choose.

Some of the main types of solar panels and their average costs per watt are:

• Monocrystalline solar panels: These are the most efficient and durable type of solar panel, but also the most expensive. They cost between £2.40 and £3.80 per watt.

• Polycrystalline solar panels: These are the most environmentally friendly type of solar panel, but also less efficient and durable than monocrystalline panels. They cost between £1.80 and £2.80 per watt.

• Thin-film solar panels: These are the most flexible and lightweight type of solar panel, but also the least efficient and reliable. They cost between £1 and £1.50 per watt.

The cost of a solar panel system also includes other components, such as inverters, racking, wiring, and installation labor. These can add up to 20% to 50% of the total cost of the system. Additionally, you may have to pay for permits, inspections, grid connection fees, or maintenance costs.

However, there are also many ways to reduce the cost of a solar panel system, such as:

• Government incentives: Through the ECO4 Scheme, the government allocated £4 billion towards the installation of solar panels and heat pumps across the UK. The government is also letting councils decide what the eligibility criteria will be depending on the needs and specific circumstances of people in the area.

• This is a big win, since previously, many people who needed grants didn’t meet the narrow criteria set out. What’s notable about ECO4 is that eligibility isn’t just limited to household income or people on benefits, but can expand to accommodate age and health of residents, number of people in the house, condition of the home, etc.

• So, between 2022-2026, there’s a much greater chance of actually getting a solar panel grant. This is bolstered by the fact that Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced in March 2022, amidst the energy price crisis, that the VAT for solar panels has gone down to 0% for a 5-year period!

In April 2022, Europe witnessed energy prices driving inflation to numbers that haven’t been seen in more than 40 years! And more than 40% of this inflation increase comes from energy prices.
To help households reduce energy bills and increase energy efficiency, the UK government announced a reduction of the current 5% VAT relief on energy-saving measures (e.g. solar panels, heat pumps) to 0%. According to the UK Government, a typical household with rooftop solar panels will save more than £1,000 in total installation costs, in addition to £300 in yearly energy expenses.

In March 2027, the VAT-free period will end, and the rate will return to 5%. If you want to get a head start before it ends, you can begin by comparing solar panel prices to save you the most money.

• Solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs): These are alternative ways to finance a solar panel system without paying upfront or owning the system. With a solar lease, you pay a fixed monthly fee to use a solar panel system that is owned and maintained by a third-party company.

With a PPA, you pay a fixed rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the electricity produced by a solar panel system that is owned and maintained by a third-party company. These options can lower your monthly electricity bills and avoid maintenance costs, but they also mean you will not benefit from tax credits or incentives.

The cost of a solar panel system is an important factor to
consider before going solar, but it is not the only one. You should also compare the benefits of going solar, such as saving money on your electricity bills over time, reducing your carbon footprint, increasing your home value, and supporting the growth of renewable energy.

Going solar can be a smart investment for your home and the environment if you do your research and find the best option for your situation.

Please note that references to Government and local incentives, tax credits, costs, equipment output and the potential of any savings are all based upon publicly available information on the internet. They may be unreliable and outdated. You are strongly advised to seek professional advice and updated information before making any financial decision.

If you are thinking of investing in solar panels in Essex why not get a free quote with SolarQuote. www.essexsolarpanelinstallers.co.uk

Solar panel installers in Essex. Best prices. Best deals. Chelmsford, Basildon, Colchester, Brentwood, Harlow, Braintree. SolarQuote. Stop high utlity bills today. Trained solar panel companies. We instal solar panels in all Essex. Go green and eco-friendly with renewables solar power.