New build solar panels for Northern Ireland
We supply and install in-roof and on-roof solar for self-builders, housing developers and building contractors across Northern Ireland, planned around your build programme from the drawings to handover.
In-roof solar: panels that sit flush with your roof
With in-roof solar, the panels replace the slates or tiles in that part of the roof and sit almost level with the roof line. Instead of a frame on top, the array becomes part of the roof itself, which is why it's so popular on new homes.
- A sleek, low-profile finish that suits modern designs
- Fitted while the roof goes on, alongside your roofer
- Fewer slates or tiles needed under the array
- Panels, battery and EV charging planned in from day one
Because in-roof panels are part of the roof, they're best fitted at the build stage or during a full re-roof. On a finished roof, standard on-roof panels are usually the better choice.
In-roof vs on-roof solar for new builds
Both are good options. The right one depends on your design, budget and build stage, and we can price both for your plans.
| In-roof | On-roof | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Flush with the roof line, very neat | Sits on brackets slightly above the roof |
| When it's fitted | During roofing on a new build or full re-roof | Any time, including on finished roofs |
| Roof covering | Replaces the slates or tiles under the array | Fitted over the existing slates or tiles |
| Coordination | Planned with your roofer and build programme | Can be scheduled independently |
| Performance | Slightly less airflow behind the panels, which can reduce output a little in hot weather | Airflow behind the panels keeps them a little cooler |
| Price | Depends on the roof and system. We quote both options so you can compare. | |
We supply and install, so you have one partner for solar
Whether it's one self-build or a multi-plot development, we take care of the new build solar panels so your site team doesn't have to.
Self-builders
Talk to us at the design stage. We'll recommend a system for your home, fit it while the roof goes on, and add a battery or EV charger now or later.
Housing developers
Solar planned per house type and plot, supplied and installed by our own team, and scheduled around your build programme.
Building contractors
A specialist solar partner for your projects, working with your site manager, roofer and electrician, with the paperwork handled for completion.
From your drawings to handover
- PlansSend us your drawings and energy requirements. Early is best, ideally before roofing is ordered.
- Design & quoteWe design the system and price in-roof or on-roof, with batteries and EV charging if needed.
- First fixWe plan cable routes and the inverter location with your electrician.
- Roof stageWe install the panels as the roof goes on, working alongside your roofer.
- HandoverWe commission the system and provide the certificates and documents you need.
In-roof solar on a finished new build home
Once the slates are complete, in-roof panels sit almost level with the roof, so they look like part of the design rather than something added later. On this new home, the panels on both roof slopes blend into the dark slate.
- Panels sized and placed around the roof design
- Neat flashing between the panels and the slates
- Wiring planned in, with no cables on show
Solar and Northern Ireland's energy rules for new homes
Part F carbon targets
Since 30 June 2022, new houses in Northern Ireland must beat the Target CO2 Emissions Rate by at least 40%, and new flats by 25%, under Technical Booklet F1 (summary of the guidance). Compliance is shown with SAP calculations, and new build solar panels are one of the ways designers can help a home meet its target.
Further changes ahead
The Department of Finance has consulted on a further uplift to Part F for new buildings. We'll keep this page updated, and your architect or SAP assessor can confirm which standard applies to your build.
New build solar panel FAQs
Do new homes in Northern Ireland need solar panels?
Solar isn't required by name, but new houses must meet tighter carbon targets under Part F, shown with SAP calculations. Solar panels are a common way to help meet them. Your architect or SAP assessor will confirm what your design needs.
When should we contact you about solar for a new build?
As early as possible, ideally at the design stage and before roofing is ordered. In-roof panels are installed as the roof goes on, so they need to be planned into the build programme.
Is in-roof solar more expensive than on-roof?
It depends on the roof and the system. In-roof panels replace some slates or tiles, which offsets part of the cost. We'll price both options so you can compare.
Can new builds get the NISEP grant?
No. Power NI's NISEP grant isn't available for new builds.
Can you add a battery and EV charger?
Yes. We can install battery storage and EV charging with the panels, or plan the wiring so they're easy to add later.
Your future. Our energy.
Installing solar across Northern Ireland since 2010, part of the McHenry Group with over 40 years in construction and business.
Get a new build quote