Kevin Taylor, Training & Technical Manager at Marley, talks the demand for solar energy and the opportunity this presents for skilled roofing contractors
‘Renewable and clean, solar PV is already an established solution for over one million households in the UK looking to lower energy bills in the home. Thanks to the government’s net zero greenhouse gas emissions policy – which demands that all new homes should produce 31% lower carbon emissions – along with zero-rated VAT on the installation of energy saving materials in residential properties, the popularity of solar looks set to increase further.
‘In addition, the uncertainty over our energy security, ongoing energy price hikes and rising demand for power to charge electric vehicles is driving increasingly more consumers to consider installing solar PV to help reduce their outgoings during the current cost-of-living crisis.
Opportunities for installers
‘The move to renewable technologies is inevitable and it is those roofing contractors who invest in the qualifications needed to fit solar PV that will benefit the most. From seriously considering solar as part of their offering to their valued customers, they will be able to deliver it.
‘Indeed, MCS, the body that defines and maintains standards for small-scale domestic renewable energy and heating across the UK and has recorded all certified installations since 2008, reports that overall, solar PV installations comprise more than 80% of the 1.4 million renewable installations so far registered, taking the total number of ‘sunny roofed’ residential properties to over one million – so demand is there for the taking.’
Make solar part of your offering
‘Solar should be discussed on every roof and roof truss enquiry – it’s a great upselling opportunity for any roofing contractor in the UK. Whilst solar may seem like a totally new market for some roofing contractors, the opportunity it too big to miss. At Marley, we can work with you to support finding solar opportunities and offering your team training and guidance on the product range and system – increasing your confidence when talking to your valued customers.’
A complete package
‘Marley SolarTile has been created to deliver on aesthetics, installation and importantly, sustainability. For years, only ‘bolt on’ systems were available, yet Marley SolarTile now provides a truly integrated roof system that fits seamlessly with the design of the roof, developed and designed with the roofer in mind to be fitted by the roofer – easily.’
Ideal for both new build and the retro-fit markets, the SolarTile does away with the need for counter battens as required on other in-tray roof systems. This is thanks to its double fixing to battens and trusses and, by replacing existing tiles rather than fixing over the top of them, it greatly reduces the risk of costly tile breakages on the roof.
Completely compatible with all clay and concrete tiles and slates, the product is supplied as a complete kit with all components, such as adhesive flashing and fireproofing materials included. So, there’s no extra material costs.
Whilst colour-coded boxes make for easy installation, the patented push- together design means that installation times of less than one hour per kilowatt peak can be achieved.
Kevin concludes, ‘Marley SolarTile is an innovative, reliable and sustainable solar energy system that, when used alongside a full range of Marley roofing products, forms part of our full roof system, complete with our 15-year guarantee. It’s a great choice for roofing contractors looking to move into the growing solar energy market.’
For advice and further details on Marley’s SolarTile system, click here.
