How We Helped a West Sussex Home Go Solar With a Small Roof
We helped this home in West Sussex go solar – even though they had a small roof area. Many homeowners assume that solar panels aren’t an option if they have a small roof.
But as this recent installation shows, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Sunbright Energy helped one West Sussex homeowner transform a modest roof into a high-performing solar system that now powers most of their home – cutting bills by more than 80% and achieving payback in just seven years.
Let’s take a quick look at the numbers behind this system:
System Size
Solar Generation
Estimated Savings
The Challenge – Making Solar Work on a Small Roof
When this West Sussex homeowner first reached out, their main worry was simple: “Is my roof big enough for solar panels?”
Our team carried out a free site assessment to explore every angle, literally. Using our design software and on-site inspection, we worked out that the property could comfortably fit a 5.10 kW solar PV system – perfectly matched to their energy needs.
The key was smart design. By carefully planning the panel layout, we ensured each of the 12 Perlight Delta 425 W Total Black Mono panels could capture the best possible sunlight throughout the day. Even with a smaller roof, this system delivers an impressive 5,608 kWh of clean electricity per year – proving that size doesn’t limit savings.
The Solution – A Smart, Space-Efficient Solar Setup
Once the design was approved, we set out to build a sleek, future-ready solar system that would maximise every inch of roof space.
This setup includes:
- 12 x Perlight Delta 425 W Total Black Mono panels — high-efficiency, all-black panels that blend seamlessly with the roofline.
- 1 x Solis Hybrid 3.6 kW-5G inverter (single-phase) — efficiently converts solar energy and manages the battery system.
- 1 x Duracell 5.12 kWh battery — stores surplus energy during sunny hours for use at night.
Together, this combination turns a compact roof into a smart energy system that keeps the household running on solar power well into the evening.
System Overview
Specification | Details |
System Size | 5.10 kW |
Panels | 12 x Perlight Delta 425 W Total Black Mono |
Inverter | Solis Hybrid 3.6 kW (5G Single Phase) |
Battery | Duracell 5.12 kWh |
Generation | 5,608 kWh per annum |
Payback Period | ~7 years |
CO₂ Savings | 1,191 kg per annum |
This system reduces the homeowner’s grid dependence by 84%, meaning they now purchase only 16% of their electricity from the grid.
The Results – Real Savings and Real Impact
The results speak for themselves.
In the first year alone, this system is projected to deliver £1,780 in total energy benefits, combining direct savings and export payments. Here’s how it breaks down:
- £640 saved on electricity bills — down from roughly £760 per year to just £120.
- £588 earned from selling excess energy back to the grid via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
- £1,228 total benefit in year one.
With a payback period of around seven years, the homeowner can look forward to decades of free, renewable power — and a lifetime system value estimated at £46,678 over 25 years.
Environmentally, the system saves over 1.1 tonnes of CO₂ each year — helping make West Sussex a cleaner, greener place to live.
Why Battery Storage Made the Difference
Adding the Duracell 5.12 kWh battery made a huge difference.
Without a battery, much of the daytime solar energy would be exported to the grid. With storage, the homeowner can now keep and use that power at night — dramatically increasing self-consumption from 41% to 84%.
That means less reliance on expensive imported electricity (currently around 38p/kWh), more independence, and long-term protection against rising energy prices.
Duracell’s trusted brand and strong performance warranty also give homeowners peace of mind — knowing their energy storage system will keep delivering for years to come.
What This Means for Homeowners in West Sussex
This project is a perfect example of what’s possible with the right approach. Even if your roof is small, solar power is still within reach — and the results can be life-changing.
With smart design, high-efficiency panels, and a hybrid battery setup, you can cut your energy bills by up to 80% and become largely independent from the grid.
If you’re based in West Sussex and thinking about solar, now’s the perfect time to explore your options. Our local design team can create a free, no-obligation plan showing how much you could save with a system tailored to your home.
Ready to See What Solar Could Do for Your Home?
Whether your roof is large or small, solar power can work for you.
For a free design and savings estimate, simply click the button below to start your journey toward lower bills and greater energy independence.
Meet The Owner
Oliver Crouch – Director
“I’m Oliver, the Director of Sunbright Energy. We’re a local, family-run business in the solar industry, which I’ve proudly led since its founding in 2014.
As a family business, we value personal connections and community. We’re driven to treat every customer with the respect and attention they deserve. Don’t hesitate to start your solar journey today – get in touch with Sunbright Energy for a service you can trust.”
