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CP Jefferies
Heating, Plumbing, Electrical and Renewable Experts
The Pound, Ampney Crucis, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 5SA
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Thinking About Solar Panels for Your Home or Office? Here’s Everything You Need to Know.
Are you considering making the switch to a cheaper and more energy-efficient way of generating electricity for your home or office.
As the summer sun begins to shine brighter, there's never been a better time to consider adding solar panels to your home.
At CP Jefferies, we’re proud to deliver high-quality solar installation services, helping homeowners and businesses reduce their reliance on fossil fuels while enjoying long-term savings and energy independence.
Let’s explore why now is the perfect time to make the switch to renewable energy.
Why Go Solar in 2025?
Solar energy is now more efficient and affordable than ever. One of the biggest advantages is the substantial reduction in energy costs. By generating your own electricity, you rely less on the national grid, which means lower monthly bills. This is particularly valuable as energy prices continue to rise.
Every solar panel installation helps reduce your carbon footprint. Unlike traditional electricity, solar energy doesn't produce harmful emissions. Over a system’s 25–30 year lifespan, the environmental impact is huge. Plus, solar panels operate silently, making them a discreet yet powerful green solution.
You can also earn money for the excess energy you feed back into the grid. CP Jefferies will guide you through all available grants and financial incentives, ensuring you make the most of your investment.
Why Summer is a great time to install Solar Panels
With longer days and more hours of sunlight, summer offers optimal conditions for solar panel efficiency. Solar systems generate the most energy during this season, allowing you to start seeing the benefits almost immediately. Installing solar panels now means you’ll enter autumn and winter with a solid energy reserve, especially if you include battery storage as part of your system.
How Solar Panels Work
Solar panels use photovoltaic (PV) cells, typically made from layers of silicon, to convert sunlight into electricity. When sunlight hits the panels, it generates a flow of electricity. This is sent through an inverter, which converts the direct current into alternating current that powers your home or business.
Pairing solar panels with battery storage allows you to store unused electricity for use at night or during cloudy days, enhancing your energy independence.
Your solar system can power:
- Lighting and appliances
- Electric heating systems and radiators
- EV charging points
- Underfloor heating
For hot water needs, Solar Thermal Installations provide a more efficient solution designed specifically for water heating.
Will solar panels work on my home or business?
In most cases, yes. Solar panels can be installed on many types of roofs, including those on rural cottages, new builds, and commercial buildings. Our expert team at CP Jefferies offers a free site assessment to evaluate factors such as:
- Roof direction and pitch
- Shading from trees or other buildings
- Available roof space
- Structural suitability
Even heritage properties can often be fitted with panels using sensitive, discreet mounting systems.
CP Jefferies installed a solar panel and battery system in the Ampney Crucis Village Hall.
The team were very knowledgeable, approachable, flexible and happy to give us several proposals. The work was completed to an exceptionally high standard, efficiently and in a timely manner. We are now realising the benefits, including a reduction in the carbon footprint of the Village Hall and a saving of electricity costs.” Mark, Village Committee Member, 2024
Do I need planning permission to install solar panels?
In most cases, no. Solar panels are considered ‘permitted development’ in the UK, so you usually won’t need planning permission for residential installations.
That said, if your property is listed or located within a conservation area (common in the Cotswolds), you may need approval. Our team can help you navigate any planning requirements and submit applications if needed.
Do solar panels work if it's cloudy or during the winter months?
Solar panels still generate electricity in overcast weather, just at lower efficiency than in the summer. You’ll still benefit from energy production year-round-even during the winter. Adding battery storage can also help ensure that energy generated during sunnier days is available to use during grey spells or at night.
Do solar panels require regular maintenance?
Solar panel maintenance is minimal but we do recommend:
- Occasional visual inspections
- Keeping the panels clean (rain usually handles most of this!)
- Monitoring system performance using your inverter or app
At CP Jefferies, we also offer aftercare support and servicing options for peace of mind.
Preventing birds from nesting under your solar panels.
Bird netting prevention is an essential addition to any solar panel installation.
Without protection, birds can nest underneath your solar panels, leading to a build-up of debris, damage to cabling, reduced efficiency, and potential long-term maintenance issues.
At CP Jefferies, we offer professional bird netting solutions that discreetly and effectively prevent birds from accessing the space beneath your panels-without affecting performance or aesthetics.
Installed using non-invasive methods, our netting is designed to be durable, weather-resistant, and virtually invisible from ground level, helping to protect your investment and keep your solar system running smoothly for years to come.
Cut your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint by switching to renewable energy solutions.
We’ve completed installations across Swindon, the Cotswolds, and beyond. Whether it’s a modern home, commercial unit, or listed building, CP Jefferies is your trusted local partner in solar energy.
Special Offer: Mention "Total Guide" when you enquire and receive free anti-bird nesting with your installation.
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