What Does the Process Actually Look Like?
One of the reasons businesses defer commercial solar decisions is uncertainty about what happens after an initial expression of interest. The process is straightforward — but understanding each stage removes the friction of the unknown and makes it easier to plan around your business calendar.
GreenBulb Energy manages the end-to-end process, from initial site survey through to commissioning and SEG registration. SolarLeads coordinates the early stages — estimate, proposal and introduction — so you have a consistent point of contact throughout.
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Share your electricity information
Provide your latest electricity bill, or your approximate annual consumption and current unit rate. This establishes the potential financial opportunity and allows us to size the illustrative system appropriately for your consumption profile. A Wattfinder estimate using your postcode and building type gives a useful starting point before the bill is available.
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Receive a personalised savings estimate
SolarLeads prepares a detailed savings estimate for your specific premises using your postcode, building type and consumption data. This covers system size, annual generation, annual saving, payback period, 25-year projection across four inflation scenarios, and the full financial comparison between cash purchase and hire purchase. The estimate is prepared at no cost and without obligation.
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Free site survey by GreenBulb Energy
GreenBulb Energy's Technical Director visits your site and conducts a full assessment: roof dimensions and structural loading, shading analysis using horizon profiling, electrical infrastructure review, and DNO connection requirements. The site survey is free and without obligation. It is the step that converts the desktop estimate into a fixed-price proposal with a guaranteed generation figure.
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DNO grid connection application
For systems up to 50 kWp, a G98 pre-notification to the local Distribution Network Operator (UK Power Networks for most of the South East) is required. GreenBulb Energy submits this on your behalf at no cost. For larger systems (above 50 kWp), a full G99 application is required — this takes longer and may involve a connection cost, which GreenBulb Energy will advise on before the proposal is issued. DNO costs, where applicable, are disclosed clearly before any commitment is made.
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Fixed-price proposal
Following the site survey, GreenBulb Energy issues a fixed-price proposal covering the exact system specification, confirmed generation estimate, installation price, payment schedule and all applicable warranties and guarantees. The proposal includes both cash purchase and hire purchase options. There is no obligation to proceed at this stage.
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Installation and commissioning
Once you decide to proceed, GreenBulb Energy confirms the installation programme. A typical 50 kWp commercial installation takes 2–3 days. On commissioning day the system is energised, tested, and handed over with the Solis Cloud monitoring app configured. GreenBulb Energy arranges the MCS certificate and SEG registration on your behalf. A one-year free maintenance package is included.
What GreenBulb Energy Handles on Your Behalf
Understanding what the installer manages removes several common concerns about the process:
| Task | Handled by |
|---|
| Savings estimate and financial modelling | SolarLeads |
| Site survey and structural assessment | GreenBulb Energy |
| DNO pre-notification or G99 application | GreenBulb Energy |
| MCS pre-notification | GreenBulb Energy |
| Scaffolding and access (if required) | GreenBulb Energy |
| Installation and electrical commissioning | GreenBulb Energy |
| MCS certificate issuance | GreenBulb Energy |
| SEG registration with your electricity supplier | GreenBulb Energy |
| Solis Cloud monitoring setup | GreenBulb Energy |
| Year-one maintenance package | GreenBulb Energy |
Why the Installer's Credentials Matter
The MCS certificate issued on commissioning is a legal requirement for Smart Export Guarantee payments and most commercial finance arrangements. Only MCS-certified installers can issue MCS certificates. GreenBulb Energy holds the full accreditation stack required for a commercial installation:
- MCS Certified — required for MCS certificate issuance and SEG registration
- NAPIT Approved — third-party verification of electrical installation competence
- RECC Member — additional consumer protections covering sales, contracts and complaint handling
- IWA Approved Installer — 10-year insurance-backed guarantee that survives if GreenBulb ceases trading
You should confirm current registration status for each accreditation body before entering into a contract. GreenBulb Energy can provide current registration numbers on request.
Payment schedule — GreenBulb Energy standard terms
Commercial installations are typically structured as: 40% deposit before work begins, 40% on material delivery to site, 20% on commissioning. The payment schedule is confirmed in the fixed-price proposal. DNO connection costs, where applicable, are itemised separately and disclosed before any commitment.
Typical Timeline
| Stage | Typical duration |
|---|
| Savings estimate prepared | 1–2 working days |
| Site survey arranged and completed | 1–2 weeks |
| Fixed-price proposal issued | 3–5 working days after survey |
| DNO pre-notification (G98) | 5–10 working days |
| DNO application (G99, systems above 50 kWp) | 6–12 weeks |
| Installation (50 kWp) | 2–3 days on site |
| Commissioning and MCS certificate | Same day as installation completion |
The first step takes two minutes
Enter your postcode and building type in the Wattfinder calculator below. You will receive a full personalised savings estimate — system size, annual saving, payback, 25-year projection — immediately and without obligation. If the numbers are compelling, the next step is a free site survey.
See what your roof could save
Enter your postcode and building type for a personalised savings estimate — system size, annual saving, payback period and 25-year projection.
