Table of Contents
Are you a homeowner interested in learning more about the incredible benefits of solar energy? Solar energy is the way of the future, but many homeowners struggle with the eye sore of having large solar panels on the exterior of their homes. Luckily, there are many other ways to utilise this energy source without sacrificing your home’s aesthetic.
Solar panels can easily be installed in your garden or yard, allowing you to choose the perfect spot that won’t interfere with your home’s exterior. If this sounds like something you’d be interested in setting up, read on to better understand the steps you must take to get started.
Do You Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels in a Garden?
The first step to answering this question will require some research on your part. As a homeowner, you can do most beautification and practical projects on your home without seeking permission or permits from local governing groups. Solar panels, however, are a bit more invasive and may require you to take the extra steps to get approval before installation.
To determine if you need permission, look on your local council website. Typically, these sites will have a section devoted to permits for these types of projects, so you should be able to find your answer reasonably easily.
The most common rules revolve around general structure height restrictions and the occasional aesthetics concern within the neighbourhood, so be prepared to adapt and adjust your plans as needed.
In order to install solar panels in your garden, you’ll likely need to hire crews to prepare the land so that the panels have a solid foundation. Breaking ground on these types of projects may require a separate permit, so be diligent in your research to avoid any unnecessary fines or penalties down the line.
Considerations for Installing Solar Panels in Your Garden
Once you’ve ensured you’re abiding by all of the rules surrounding this project, there are a few more things to consider before getting started. Investing in solar energy will help save you money down the line, but this extra planning ahead of time will help avoid speed bumps along the way.
What Type of Solar Panel is Best?
Figuring out which type of solar panel is best for your garden will depend on several factors. First, how much space do you have? Second, how much energy do you wish to store from these panels? Both of these questions are good starting points for determining the size and type of solar panel you will need.
EcoFlow Solar Panels like EcoFlow Rigid Solar Panels are the perfect choice for permanent installation, either on your roof or in the garden. They’re easy to install directly on the ground and can capture plenty of sunlight to power all your home’s needs.
The EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panel or EcoFlow 100W Rigid Solar Panel are also suited for outbuildings and roofs. If you want to keep your garden and solar panels separate, this may be the best option for you. These panels are designed to lay flat on the roof to capture and store tremendous amounts of sunlight.
Both options offer a variety of benefits, but each has its own pros and cons for different homes, so make sure to choose which is best for your specific situation.
Is Your Garden Big Enough?
Solar panels are rather large, and installing them in your backyard may monopolise a lot of your space. If you’re worried that your yard may be too small, make sure to take measurements and compare them to the solar panels you are looking to purchase.
There are many shapes and sizes on the market, so you are bound to find something that will fit your space properly. If you still feel that the panels would take up too much of your yard, consider installing them on your roof or on one of your outbuildings.
What is your Budget?
While investing in solar energy will save you money on electricity costs over the years, the upfront costs can be rather expensive. That said, there are more cost-effective options if you are just getting your start in solar.
Take the time to work through a budget and see what you can comfortably afford for this addition to your home. You can always start with a smaller panel and see the benefits before investing in a larger-scale option – the choice is yours.
Are There Any Local Regulations?
As we touched on above, it is your job to research to see if any rules or regulations surround installing solar panels in your neighbourhood. As more people choose to invest in solar, the likelihood of these regulations loosening up over time is promising, but you must adhere to the rules while they’re in place.
Call your local council or visit their website to see if there are any local regulations that you should know about before purchasing and installing your solar panels. Once you are clear here, you’re ready to move forward with the installation process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Depending on where you live, you may need to seek permission from your neighbours prior to installing solar panels on your property. Do some research to see if you’re obligated to follow any rules or regulations before installing these panels. You may also need written approval to install these panels if you live in an HOA.
Putting solar panels on outbuildings is an excellent alternative to installing them on your main roof. These buildings vary in size, so you’ll need to search for solar panels that are designed to fit on these compact roofs. The panels will work just the same and will help to provide you with a sustainable source of energy in your home.
Installing solar panels in your garden rather than on your roof is a great way to keep them hidden from plain sight and will not decrease the value of your home. Solar panels installed in your garden will work just as well if installed on your roof, and they are easier to access as they are at ground level.
Final Thoughts
Investing in solar panels also invests in a cleaner and brighter future. More and more people are seeing the considerable benefits of installing these panels in their gardens, and we assure you that you will too.
Are you ready to take the first step to see which types of solar panels would be best for your garden? Take a look at EcoFlow’s Solar Panels and learn more about which type may be the best option for you.
