Before you start your renewable energy project, it’s a good idea to have an understanding of how long it’s likely to take. This will help you arrange the project, especially if you are also having other work carried out at the same time. All projects are different, so the time yours takes will be different to the guidelines given below. But, we’ve made a timeline to give you a sense of how long a renewable energy project might take.
How long will a renewable energy project take?
Research: 1 week
It’s important to undertake plenty of research before beginning your renewable energy project. Look into the different kinds of renewable energy and figure out which is best for your home. Make sure that you have enough time to locate renewable energy companies in your area and get quotes from several of these.
It’s best to ask people you know for recommendations or use our service when you’re finding renewable energy pros. Remember that you need to use a Microgeneration Certification Scheme certified installer. It’s a legal requirement to use a certified installer if you want to benefit from the Government’s Feed-in Tariff scheme.
Installation time: 1 day-1 week
Most renewable energy installations are fairly quick. For solar PV panels, expect them to only take 1 day, once the company has confirmed its availability and sourced the appropriate panels. Ground source or air source heat pumps will usually take slightly longer. Expect a heat pump installation to take between 1-3 days. Solar thermal projects often take longer than solar PV, as extra pipework will often need to be added to your heating system. Expect a solar thermal project to take 2-5 days.
Biomass boilers are difficult to estimate, as each project will vary significantly depending on where the boiler will be located. At a minimum, a biomass boiler installation will usually take 2 days. However, it may take longer than a week, if the installation is particularly difficult.
Receiving your MCS certificate: 2 weeks
It’ll usually take around 2 weeks for your MCS compliance certificate to come through. Once you’ve got this, you can send it on to your energy supplier and start benefiting from the Feed-in Tariff. To find out more about the MCS scheme, click here.
Total time: 4 weeks
In general, a renewable energy project should take around 1 month to complete. To start this process, just fill out our easy online form. We’ll put you in touch with up to 4 renewable energy pros in your area.
