From Feed-in Tariff to Future-Ready: Mr Linfield’s Solar Upgrade

Client Background

Mr. Linfield, from Llandyrnog, has an older solar PV system installed in 2011 under the early Feed-in Tariff scheme. Following the recent installation of an air source heat pump, his electricity demand has increased, and he now wishes to upgrade his renewable system. He is looking to add additional solar panels to boost generation and install a battery storage system to maximise self-consumption and reduce running costs.

Challenge

The existing roof was fully occupied by Mr. Linfield’s older 245 W solar panels, leaving no available space to add new capacity. To meet his increased energy demand, the entire array needed to be redesigned and refitted with modern, higher-efficiency panels, creating space for additional generation.

Under updated Ofgem regulations, the system can also accommodate battery storage when a bidirectional meter is installed. This allows the new array and battery to operate compliantly alongside the original 2011 installation.

Site Assessment

Solar North conducted an in-depth site survey, taking into account:

• Existing FiT systems must remain separate from new solar capacity to protect the original tariff.

• Upgrades must not alter the commissioned capacity of the FiT-accredited system.

• Adding battery storage is permitted when a bidirectional meter is installed to ensure compliant import/export measurement.

• Any new solar generation must be registered as a separate MCS installation with its own commissioning documentation.

• System changes must not interfere with the original FiT generation meter or export meter setup.

Solar North removed the old panels and inverter and installed new high-efficiency 460 W modules. This allowed the original 16 panels to be replaced with just 9 modern panels, freeing up roof space. With the improved efficiency and reduced panel count, an additional 5 panels could be installed, providing significantly increased generation capacity within the same roof area.

Installation & Outcome

The installation was completed in just 2 days, despite the complexity of the property layout. The benefits are;

• Old 245 W panels and inverter fully removed and replaced with high-efficiency 460 W modules.

• System capacity increased from 3.92 kW to 6.5 kW, boosting annual generation.

• Roof space optimised by reducing 16 old panels to 9 modern ones, creating room for 5 additional panels.

• Installation of a 9.5 kWh GivEnergy battery, able to charge from both the new array and the original FiT system.

• Significantly improved self-consumption, reducing reliance on the grid—especially beneficial for the air source heat pump.

• Ensured full compliance with Ofgem rules, protecting the customer’s high Feed-in Tariff payments.

• Solar North handled all paperwork, design, and system integration, ensuring a smooth upgrade process.

• Increased resilience, lower running costs, and a future-proof renewable setup tailored to Mr. Linfield’s needs.