Intelligent Solar Carports Power Your Home & EV

Solar carports must meet UK Building Regulations in several areas:

• Structural safety (Part A): The frame and foundations must be designed for site-specific loads (wind, snow, ground conditions). Calculations are carried out to Eurocode standards.

• Electrical safety (Part P): All electrical work (inverters, cabling, EV chargers, batteries) must comply with the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and be installed by NICEIC or equivalent registered contractors.

• Fire safety (Part B): In certain cases, particularly with integrated batteries, fire-resistant materials and separation distances must be observed.

• Drainage (Part H): Rainwater must be managed safely without increasing flood risk or affecting neighbouring properties.

👉 We provide full compliance documentation, including electrical certificates and structural design approvals.

Yes. We offer a full planning support service, which includes:

• Preparing site drawings and system specifications.

• Submitting the application (permitted development confirmation, prior approval, or full planning).

• Liaising with the Local Planning Authority during the process.

We charge a fee for this service, but it is refunded against your final invoice if you proceed with your installation through us.

• • Domestic carports:

    • Typically 1–3 bays, serving a household or small property.

    • Focused on reducing household energy bills and providing EV charging.

    • Generally sized at 3–9 kW systems.

  • Commercial carports:

    • Multi-bay systems covering large parking areas.

    • Can integrate multiple EV chargers for staff/customers.

    • Often exceed 50 kW capacity and may generate revenue from charging fees or grid export.

    • Require more detailed planning and grid approval processes.

  👉 Blue Ape specialises in both domestic and commercial installations, designing to the scale and requirements of each site.

Yes. A solar carport is an excellent way to integrate EV charging:

• A 7 kW smart charger is the most common option for homes.

• Commercial carports can host multiple chargers, from 7 kW fast chargers up to 22 kW three-phase systems.

• Smart load management ensures your supply isn’t overloaded and can prioritise solar energy when available.

• Chargers can be linked to apps for billing, access control, and monitoring.

👉 We design EV charging infrastructure alongside your solar carport so that it’s future-proof and scalable

Yes — battery storage is becoming increasingly popular with solar carports. Typical sizes are:

• Domestic single bay: 5–10 kWh battery.

• Commercial systems: 30–100 kWh+ depending on site needs.

Benefits include:

• Maximised self-consumption: Use stored solar in the evening or overnight.

• Export-limiting: Helps comply with grid restrictions by storing surplus energy.

• Backup supply: Certain batteries provide emergency backup during power cuts.

👉 We specify only Tier 1 batteries with warranties of 10+ years or set cycle counts for reliability.

• The size depends on your parking requirements and energy goals:

  • Single bay: Around 4 kWp (9 × 445 W panels).

  • Double bay: 5–9 kWp (up to 18 panels).

  • Commercial: Can scale to 100+ kWp across multiple bays.

  Factors influencing size include:

  • Your current and projected electricity usage.

  • Whether you plan to charge EVs or run site equipment.

  • Available space and orientation.

  👉 We provide a tailored energy assessment to match your system size to your needs.

• This varies with size and location. For example:

  • A single bay (4.0 kWp) in the UK typically generates 3,400–4,500 kWh per year.

  • This equates to:

    • Around 10,000–13,000 EV miles annually.

    • Covering 60–70% of the average household’s annual electricity needs.

  Key factors:

  • Location: Southern UK sites can yield 20% more than northern regions.

  • Shading: Trees and buildings can reduce yield.

  • Orientation: South-facing produces the highest output, though east/west layouts still perform well.

  👉 Every project includes a MCS-compliant generation estimate so you know exactly what to expect before installation.

For a domestic single-bay system, installation typically takes 2–3 days on site. This includes:

• Assembly of the frame and roof.

• Mounting and wiring of solar panels.

• Connection of the inverter, monitoring system, and EV charger (if included).

For larger domestic (multi-bay) or commercial sites, timescales extend:

• Domestic double-bay: 3–5 days.

• Commercial installations: 2–8 weeks depending on the number of bays, groundwork requirements, and whether EV charging or battery systems are integrated.

Additional time may be needed for trenching, cable routing, or if road closures or utility diversions are required.

👉 We always provide a detailed programme of works in advance so you know exactly what to expect.

Our projects follow a structured six-stage process:

1. Consultation & Feasibility Study – We review your energy use, site layout, and goals.

2. Site Survey & Design – Structural and electrical engineers produce drawings and yield models.

3. Planning & Permissions – We submit planning applications, prior approval notices, or G99 grid applications where required.

4. Fabrication & Groundworks – Columns, foundations, and drainage are installed. Steelwork is prefabricated to minimise time on site.

5. Installation & Commissioning – The carport, panels, inverters, chargers, and batteries are installed, tested, and signed off by certified electricians.

6. Handover & Monitoring Setup – We provide a full O&M (operations & maintenance) pack, warranty documentation, and access to online monitoring.

👉 This end-to-end service ensures your project is delivered on time, safely, and fully compliant.

The cost depends on size, site conditions, and optional extras such as chargers or storage. Typical ranges:

• Domestic single-bay: From around £9,000.

• Domestic double-bay: £12,000–£18,000.

• Commercial multi-bay: From £20,000 upwards, often scaling into six figures for large installations.

Costs include:

• Structural frame and foundations.

• Solar modules, inverter, wiring, and monitoring.

• Installation, testing, and first-year inspection.

Additional costs may arise if long cable runs, difficult access, or planning/utility fees are involved.

👉 We provide fixed-price quotations following site surveys, so you have full cost certainty.

Yes. Current incentives and schemes include:

• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Payments for surplus energy exported back to the grid. Rates vary by supplier.

• EV Charging Grants: In certain cases, grants are available for home or workplace charger installations.

• Capital Allowances (businesses): Commercial operators can often claim tax relief under the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) or Enhanced Capital Allowances for energy-efficient equipment.

• Reduced VAT: Some installations may benefit from reduced VAT (0% in certain residential cases, subject to eligibility).

👉 We guide clients through all available schemes and handle applications where possible to maximise your return on investment.

Savings depend on system size and how much energy you consume directly. Typical outcomes:

• Households: Reduce bills by 30–70%, with payback usually achieved in 5–8 years.

• Businesses: Savings scale with usage. Carports can offset thousands of pounds annually in energy costs, while offering EV charging revenue streams.

• EV drivers: Powering your car directly from solar can save £500–£1,000+ per year in fuel costs compared with petrol/diesel.

Additional benefits include increased property value and improved EPC ratings.

A single bay (4.0 kWp) generates approximately 3,400–4,500 kWh annually in the UK. To put this in context:

• Equivalent to running an average UK home for 8–10 months.

• Equivalent to 10,000–13,000 EV miles at typical efficiency.

Commercial multi-bay systems scale accordingly, with larger arrays generating tens or hundreds of megawatt-hours annually.

We provide MCS-compliant generation estimates specific to your postcode, roof orientation, and shading profile so you have reliable forecasts.

• Standard layout: 9 panels in a 3 × 3 portrait grid.

• Extra-large layout: 12 panels in a 3 × 4 portrait grid (subject to span and frame sizing).

We use 445 W high-efficiency modules as standard, but panel count may vary depending on the chosen model.

For a standard 9-panel bay:

• Roof size: Approx. 3.55 m wide × 5.45 m long.

• Parking space below: Typically 3.0 m wide × 5.5–6.0 m long (standard UK car bay dimensions).

• Clear headroom: 2.2–2.4 m at the lowest edge, compliant with vehicle clearance standards.

👉 The design ensures comfortable access for standard and larger vehicles, including SUVs and light vans.

No. The structure is engineered to be fully waterproof:

• Continuous seals and rails prevent water ingress between modules.

• Metal drainage channels overlap beneath each joint.

• A minimum 5° slope ensures water flows efficiently towards eaves.

• Optional gutters and downpipes integrate with existing drainage.

Annual inspections include checking seals and clearing channels to guarantee long-term performance.

In most cases, no full planning application is needed, as carports can qualify under permitted development. Key conditions include:

• Not exceeding 4 metres in total height.

• Not covering more than 50% of the land around the property.

• Not placed forward of the main house frontage.

Solar equipment is also covered under Part 14 Permitted Development, provided it complies with limits.

👉 However, because rules vary by site (especially in conservation areas, AONBs, or listed properties), we recommend securing a Lawful Development Certificate. This provides written confirmation from your Local Authority that the project is permitted, protecting you against future disputes or enforcement.

Commercial carport installations usually require a “prior approval” process under the General Permitted Development Order for non-domestic parking areas. The planning authority will assess:

• Siting: Ensuring the structure is suitably placed within the car park.

• Design & appearance: Confirming the visual impact is acceptable.

• Drainage: Verifying that surface water is properly managed.

For larger or more complex schemes, a full planning application may be needed. At Blue Ape, we prepare all drawings, reports, and drainage calculations, and liaise directly with planning officers to ensure approval.

Connecting a solar carport to the grid requires approval from your Distribution Network Operator (DNO):

• Systems ≤3.68 kW export: Covered under G98 regulations – you can connect and simply notify your DNO after installation.

• Systems >3.68 kW export: Require a G99 application – formal approval must be granted before connecting.

• Larger systems: May need export-limiting (G100), where a control device caps export while allowing a larger inverter or battery.

👉 We manage the entire DNO application process, providing load studies and technical data to secure approval.

Yes. EV charging is one of the most common add-ons:

• Domestic installations: A single 7 kW smart charger is the most popular option. It integrates with the solar system to maximise self-use.

• Commercial sites: Multiple chargers can be installed, from standard 7 kW AC chargers to rapid DC chargers (50 kW+), depending on available supply.

• Load management: Prevents overloading your property’s supply by balancing power between chargers and other demand.

• Revenue generation: For businesses, chargers can be configured for staff or public use, generating income via pay-per-use billing.

👉 All chargers are installed to OZEV standards, ensuring eligibility for grants where applicable.

Absolutely. Battery storage enhances the value of a solar carport by:

• Capturing daytime surplus: Store excess solar generation for evening or overnight use.

• Reducing grid reliance: Smooth out fluctuations and minimise peak-time imports.

• Export control: Helps comply with DNO-imposed export limits.

• Backup functionality: Certain battery systems can provide emergency power in the event of an outage.

Typical battery sizes:

• Domestic single bay: 5–10 kWh.

• Commercial multi-bay: 30–100+ kWh.

👉 We design bespoke battery solutions, using only Tier 1 manufacturers with warranties of at least 10 years or defined cycle counts.

• Domestic single bay: Typically 2–3 days on site.

• Domestic double bay: 3–5 days.

• Commercial installations: Ranging from 2 weeks to 2 months, depending on scale, groundworks, and EV infrastructure.

Timescales include foundations, carport erection, electrical connections, and commissioning. Complex sites (e.g. with grid upgrades or road closures) may extend the programme.

👉 You will receive a full construction schedule in advance, tailored to your site conditions.

All solar carports require engineer-designed concrete foundations. Key factors include:

• Soil conditions: Foundations are sized according to ground bearing capacity (confirmed via ground investigation if necessary).

• Load requirements: Columns and bases are designed to withstand wind uplift and snow loading specific to your postcode.

• Drainage and services: Locations are checked for underground utilities (gas, water, electricity) before excavation.

👉 Using the correct foundation design ensures structural stability and long-term performance, with a lifespan of 25+ years.

A solar carport requires minimal but essential maintenance:

• Annual structural checks: Bolts tightened, seals inspected, paint coatings checked for damage.

• Panel cleaning: Only when dirt, dust, or bird droppings significantly reduce output. In most UK climates, rain provides natural cleaning.

• Drainage maintenance: Keep channels and gutters clear of leaves and debris.

• Protective coatings: Any scratches or damage should be repainted to prevent corrosion.

👉 We offer ongoing operation & maintenance (O&M) packages, including remote monitoring, annual inspections, and performance reporting.

We provide a comprehensive warranty package:

• Carport structure: 10–20 years manufacturer’s warranty against defects and corrosion.

• Solar panels: 10–15 year product warranty plus a 25-year performance warranty (typically 80–85% output at year 25).

• Inverter: 10-year warranty as standard, with optional extensions.

• Battery (if fitted): 10 years or defined cycle count.

• Installation workmanship: Blue Ape provides its own guarantee covering installation quality.

• Optional insurance-backed guarantee: For extra protection in domestic projects.

👉 This ensures every part of your system is protected, from steelwork to solar modules and electrical equipment.

If a column is struck or damaged, it must be replaced immediately to maintain structural integrity. Important points:

• Warranty exclusions: Impact damage is not covered by manufacturer warranties.

• Replacement process: Damaged columns can usually be replaced without dismantling the entire carport, though temporary support may be required.

• Insurance: In most cases, repairs are covered by vehicle insurance or your property insurance policy.

• Safety first: Any visible damage should be reported immediately to prevent load transfer issues.

👉 We can supply and fit replacement components quickly, ensuring your carport remains safe and operational.

• Carport frame, waterproof rails, solar panels, inverter, wiring, testing, and set-up.

• Foundations, standard trenching, monitoring set-up.

• Handover pack and first-year inspection.

• Extra groundwork, long cable runs, or hard-to-access sites.

• Adding export-limiting kit, EV charger, or battery.

• Planning fees, grid fees, or road closure costs.

• Normal building tools during working hours only.

• No noise once installed – it’s a fixed structure.

• Single-bay design is low and discreet (5° roof slope).

• The finish and location are agreed before building.

• Power is lower in winter because of shorter days and lower sun.

• Built to withstand local wind and snow loads.

• Yes – you can sign up for a Smart Export Guarantee tariff.

• What you earn depends on your energy supplier and how much you export.