FAQ

Founded in January 2014, Greener Energy Group has become one of the UK’s leading specialists in renewable energy solutions, completing over 6,000 successful installations across homes in Scotland and the North East of England.

Our goal is simple — to help homeowners save energy, reduce bills, and lower their carbon footprint through trusted, sustainable technologies such as solar panels, air source heat pumps, home insulation, and smart heating controls.

With a wide range of energy-efficient products, our expert inhouse team recommends the best solutions tailored to your home, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you’re looking to harness the power of solar energy, upgrade to a modern heat pump system, or improve your home’s insulation, we deliver results you can rely on.

At Greener Energy Group, we’re proud to combine industry-leading products, professional installations, and exceptional customer care. Every project is completed to the highest standard, helping you enjoy a warmer, greener, and more cost-effective home.

We’re also honoured to hold exclusive partnerships with Octopus Energy and Hive, a testament to the quality, reliability, and trust that define our work.

Join thousands of satisfied homeowners who’ve made the switch to clean, renewable energy with Greener Energy Group — and start your journey toward a smarter, more sustainable future today.

Yes, at Greener Energy Group, we’re proud to offer a range of flexible finance options designed to make upgrading your home’s energy systems easier and more affordable.

As a fully FCA-approved company, you can have complete confidence that our finance options are regulated, transparent, and trustworthy. Our FCA approval means our business has been fully audited and vetted, and our finance partners also conduct their own due diligence to ensure you are dealing with a reputable business.

We’re pleased to offer some of the most competitive finance deals in the renewable energy industry, including:

• 0% APR Representative – on selected products, spread the cost with interest-free payments
• 5.9% APR Representative – with our exclusive partnership with Capital Credit Union, you will find it hard to compete with this low rate.

Our friendly team will help you choose the best payment plan to suit your budget and your home’s needs — so you can start saving energy and reducing your bills right away.

Yes, Greener Energy Group is fully MCS approved, ensuring all our installations meet the highest industry standards for quality and safety.

Being MCS approved means you are eligible for government incentives, including the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme and the The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).

Our official MCS registration number is NAP33259, giving you confidence that your renewable energy installation is certified, compliant, and backed by recognised standards.

Yes, at Greener Energy Group, we manage your entire installation project from start to finish. From the initial sale and system design to installation and aftercare, we ensure a seamless, stress-free experience.

All work is carried out by our in-house, fully qualified tradespeople, who take pride in delivering the highest standard of workmanship on every project. This means your system is installed safely, efficiently, and to the quality standards you can trust.

As part of our service, Greener Energy Group  will help you claim any government incentives, such as the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme and the The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).

Our friendly office support team guides you through every step, from your installation to completing the claim, ensuring the process is simple, straightforward, and stress-free. We’re here to make sure you receive all eligible funding for your renewable energy system.

Yes, Greener Energy Group currently covers all areas of Scotland and the North of England, ensuring our renewable energy solutions are widely accessible.

At present, we do not cover KW postcodes or remote islands, but our team is always happy to discuss your location and provide guidance on alternative options.

At Greener Energy Group, we are an ethical business committed to doing the right thing for our customers. We hold all the necessary accreditations to ensure our customers can claim all relevant government incentives and have complete peace of mind knowing our business is audited and approved by the FCA, MCS, and our finance partners.

There are many reasons to choose Greener Energy Group, but the best people to answer this question are our previous customers. You can see why they chose us and read their honest reviews on Trustpilot reflecting the quality, reliability, and trust we bring to every installation.

An ASHP is a renewable heating system that absorbs heat from the outside air, even in cold temperatures. The best solution is an ‘air-to-water’ system which heats your home and hot water using conventional radiators or underfloor heating alongside a domestic hot water cylinder.

Yes. They use renewable energy from the air, significantly reducing your carbon emissions and lowering your household’s carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel boilers.

Most homes are suitability for a heat pump, and as with all heating system a well-insulated property will perform best. You’ll also need adequate outdoor space for the unit, with specific clearances for airflow and maintenance. A free survey from us will assess your property’s suitability and if for any reason your property is not suitable, we would not install a heat pump.

Location: The outdoor unit needs a firm, flat, level surface, typically a concrete base. It should be positioned with adequate clearances to ensure proper airflow and access for maintenance.

Electrical System: Your existing electrical system needs to be assessed for suitability. We will inform the relevant Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before connecting the heat pump to the mains.

Hot Water Cylinder: If you want your air source heat pump to provide hot water, you’ll need a hot water cylinder, which requires cupboard space.

Insulation: Optimal performance relies on insulation (loft, wall, floor, windows, doors) to prevent heat loss.

Existing heating system: ASHPs are designed to run at lower flow temperatures (around 50°C) compared to traditional boilers (around 80°C). This often means upgrading to larger radiators or connecting to existing underfloor heating to ensure your home is adequately heated.

In most cases, installing an ASHP in a domestic property is considered “permitted development” and does not require planning permission. Planning permission is typically required for listed buildings, properties in conservation areas, or World Heritage Sites

This is a common concern! Modern air source heat pumps are generally not very noisy at all. They typically produce a low, constant hum, like a refrigerator or a dishwasher.

Decibel Levels: On average, are air source heat pumps produce between 40 and 60 decibels (dB) when measured from one metre away. For comparison, a quiet library is around 40 dB and a normal conversation is around 60 dB

Installation times can vary, but most typical installations are completed within 2-4 working days. This includes the outdoor unit, pipework, new radiators (if needed), hot water cylinder, and controls.

Installation Costs: The total cost for an ASHP installation varies dramatically based on property size, system specifications, and any necessary upgrades to your heating system (e.g., radiators), a free survey will determine the exact costs based on the requirements for your home

Savings: You can expect significant savings on your annual energy bills, particularly if you’re replacing an older, inefficient heating system.

Outcome: after a detailed free survey you will be given the exact installation costs along with the new running costs and will then be in the position to make an informed choice to make the switch or not.

The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is a UK government-backed accreditation that ensures quality and reliability. To be eligible for government grants and incentives, your air source heat pump system must be installed by an MCS-certified installer like Greener Energy Group. MCS-certified installers follow strict quality and efficiency guidelines, ensuring professional installation and optimal system performance.

Membership in consumer codes: We are also members of the Home Insulation & Energy Systems Contractors Scheme (HIES).

Yes, air source heat pumps are designed to work effectively in cold weather. Modern ASHPs can operate efficiently even when outside temperatures drop as low as -20°C. Their efficiency may slightly reduce below 3°C, and you might notice increased energy consumption during very cold spells as the unit works harder. They also incorporate features like defrost cycles to prevent ice build-up on the outdoor coil.

No, installing a heat pump is a complex job requiring specialised technical skills in plumbing and electrical work. It must be installed by a Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified installer to ensure quality, safety, and compliance with regulations, and to be eligible for government grant.

Air Source Heat Pumps require annual servicing by a qualified technician, similar to a boiler, to ensure efficiency and maintain manufacturer warranties. You should also perform basic upkeep yourself, such as clearing leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit.

Yes, heat pumps use electricity, so combining them with solar PV panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills and carbon footprint. Smart energy tariffs that offer cheaper electricity at certain times can also be beneficial

The general steps include:

Quote: You’ll receive a fixed-price quote, which will include information about applicable Government grants.

Technical Survey: We will assess your home’s suitability, calculate heat demand, and recommend the right heat pump size and type.

Preparation: Clear the areas where we will be working.

Removal of old system: Your existing boiler and hot water cylinder will be removed.

Installation of units: The outdoor unit is placed on a firm level surface with adequate air circulation. Indoor units (hot water cylinder, controls) are also installed.

Pipework and electrical connections: The system is connected to your existing (or new) radiators/underfloor heating. A qualified electrician will handle electrical work.

Testing and commissioning: The system is thoroughly tested for leaks and proper operation.

Handover: The installation team will explain how to use the system controls and answer any questions

The BUS is a government scheme in England and Wales designed to help homeowners and small non-domestic property owners reduce the upfront cost of installing low-carbon heating systems like air source heat pumps. It replaced the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

You can get a grant of £7,500 off the cost and installation of an air source heat pump.

You must own the property (including second homes or rented properties).

The property must be in England or Wales.

You must be replacing an existing fossil fuel heating system (e.g., oil, gas, electric, or LPG boiler).

Your property must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) that is less than 10 years old, we can help with this.

Most new build properties and social housing are not eligible. Self-build properties may be eligible under certain conditions.

The system installed must meet certain standards, including minimum efficiency levels.

The application process is installer-led:

Find an MCS-certified installer like Greener Energy Group who are crucial as we will apply for the grant on your behalf.

Provide consent to Ofgem: Ofgem will contact you (usually by email) to confirm you’ve authorized the installer and that your home is suitable. You must respond within 14 days.

Installation and redemption: Once approved, we will deduct the grant amount from your quote upfront. We must install the system within the voucher’s validity period which is 3 months for air source heat pump and then we will redeem the voucher with Ofgem.

Generally, you cannot get the BUS grant if your property has already received government funding or support for a heat pump or biomass boiler.

Scotland has several schemes, primarily:

Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan: Homeowners can apply for a grant of up to £7,500 for energy efficiency improvements, which includes air source heat pumps. A rural uplift can increase the grant to £9,000. An optional interest-free loan of another £7,500 is also available. The maximum total support is £17,500 (or £19,000 for rural properties).

Open to homeowners and private landlords in Scotland and this is NOT means-tested meaning you do not need to be on any benefits to qualify.

Your property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

You must use an installer from Home Energy Scotland’s network of approved installers.

Our friendly advisors will help you with every aspect of claiming the funding and our dedicated team to help walk you through each step of the journey.

Unfortunately, there is no information on how long this funding will last. In previous schemes including solar, funding was withdrawn with very little notice period. On Home Energy Scotland’s website, it states the following: Funding is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and is subject to availability

If you’re considering applying for this funding, it’s best to act quickly rather than wait.

Solar panels (photovoltaic or PV panels) convert sunlight directly into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts this DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is what your home appliances use.

Battery storage systems store excess electricity generated by your solar panels that isn’t immediately used by your home. This stored energy can then be used during the evenings, on cloudy days, reducing your reliance on grid electricity.

While solar panels alone can reduce your energy bills, adding battery storage significantly increases your self-sufficiency. It allows you to:

Maximise self-consumption: Use more of the free, clean energy you generate, rather than exporting it to the grid for a lower price.

Reduce electricity bills: Draw less electricity from the grid, especially during peak times when prices are highest.

Gain energy independence: Rely less on the national grid and its fluctuating prices.

Lower your carbon footprint: Contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle by utilising more renewable energy.

Optimise time-of-use tariffs: Charge your battery with cheaper off-peak electricity from the grid and use it during more expensive peak times, even without solar panels.

Significant savings on electricity bills.

Increased energy independence and resilience.

Reduced carbon emissions.

Potential for passive income through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).

Adds value to your property.

Upfront cost: The initial investment can be substantial, however you are going to pay the money to your energy provider anyway, so why not invest now and after a period of time you will have had your payback.

Space requirements: You need sufficient roof space for panels and a suitable, accessible location for the battery and inverter.

The number of panels depends on your household’s energy consumption, available roof space, and desired level of energy self-sufficiency. A typical UK household might install between 6 and 12 panels (between 2.7kW and 5.4kW system), which could cover 30-75% of annual energy needs without a battery, or up to 80-90% with one. We will conduct a detailed assessment to recommend the optimal system size.

South-facing roofs are ideal for maximum sunlight exposure and energy generation. However, east- and west-facing roofs are still very effective, receiving up to 95% of the sunlight compared to south-facing panels. North-facing roofs are generally not recommended for solar panel installation due to significantly lower efficiency (around 60% of south-facing). The pitch of your roof also plays a role.

Yes, solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy days as they use daylight, not just direct sunlight. However, their output will be reduced. During winter, shorter daylight hours and lower sun angles mean less electricity generation. This is where battery storage becomes particularly valuable.

In most cases, installing solar panels on your house is considered “permitted development” and does not require planning permission. However, exceptions apply if you live in a conservation area, a listed building, or have specific local restrictions. Always check with your local planning office.

Solar panels are relatively low maintenance. They are designed with a self-cleaning coating that allows rainwater to wash away dirt. However, occasional manual cleaning may be beneficial in dusty areas or if debris accumulates. Regular checks every couple of years and after severe weather are recommended.

Most solar panels come with performance warranties of 25 years, guaranteeing a certain percentage of their initial output. The panels themselves can last even longer, often 30 years or more, with a gradual degradation in efficiency over time (typically around 0.5% per year).

The number of panels you need will depend on your energy consumption, roof size, and orientation. A typical residential solar installation may require 20–30 square meters of roof space.

Solar panels can be installed on most types of roofs, including pitched, flat, and even garage roofs. However, the condition and angle of your roof will affect the efficiency and cost of installation.

No, if installed correctly, solar panels won’t damage your roof. The panels are mounted using brackets and the roof remains largely unaffected.

The ideal battery size depends on your daily electricity usage and your solar panel output. Most residential batteries range from 5 kWh to 15 kWh. We will assess your specific needs to recommend a suitable capacity that can cover your evening and night-time usage.

Most modern lithium-ion batteries for home storage come with a 10-year warranty, often guaranteeing a certain percentage of their original capacity (e.g., 80%). The actual lifespan can vary depending on usage patterns but generally falls within 10-15 years.

Yes, you can. Many homeowners are installing “battery-only” systems to take advantage of cheaper off-peak electricity tariffs. You can charge the battery during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper and then use that stored electricity during peak hours, saving money.

Our batteries are designed to be installed outside your home which offers several benefits including enhanced safety, improved accessibility, and better ventilation. These systems, designed for outdoor use, can provide reliable energy storage and can help optimize energy usage with smart monitoring features.

Yes, however, due to different Code of Practice Regulations battery storage systems in Scotland, designed for island mode operation (providing power during a grid outage), often require an earth rod. This is due to the need for a reliable and independent earthing arrangement when the grid connection is not available. This comes at a greater cost and normally outweighs the benefits for rare power outages.

Yes, you can install battery storage at any time after installing solar panels. Many homeowners opt for this as an upgrade after their initial installation.

The cost varies significantly depending on the system size, type of panels/battery, complexity of installation. We offer a completely free survey to determine the best options for you and your home then you can decide in your own time if your feel it is right for you.

The main incentive in the UK is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which pays you for any surplus electricity you export back to the grid. Greener Energy Group are a MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certified company and will supply you with the relevant paperwork to claim this incentive.

From February 1st, 2024, VAT on retrofitted batteries has been removed, meaning you pay no VAT (0%) whether the battery is installed with new solar panels or added to an existing system.

Always choose an installer like us with MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) accreditation. This ensures we adhere to recognised industry quality standards, and it’s essential for qualifying for the Smart Export Guarantee.

Typically, a domestic solar panel and battery storage installation can take 1-2 days, depending on the system size and the complexity of your home’s electrical setup.

You should receive an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC), DNO (Distribution Network Operator) notification paperwork (we will handle this notification), and warranty and performance documents for your panels, inverter, and battery. You will also receive login details for any monitoring apps or portals.

Yes, you must inform your home insurance provider before installation.