Design, supply, install and commissioning of an Enphase Battery AC 2.4kWh system with 2 batteries, brackets and components.
Techfor Energy had designed and supplied solar panel system for me 15 months ago, so this was the logical extension. Glenn explained exactly what it would do (in words of one syllable), so I went ahead. The three men arrived on time and with all they needed. The work was neatly carried out, all 'mechanical' work being finished by evening, but there was a problem with the batteries discharging. All wiring was double checked, and Glenn decided the problem was in the computer software either in America or France. This he would sort out and left no stone un-turned until it was. Several phone calls to check if things were working, until two days later all was running smoothly. I wish all companies were as much of a pleasure to deal with: Glenn and his team are professionals to their fingertips, dedicated to utilising solar power for as many people as possible, and ensuring the work is completed to the highest possible spec. I am a total computer ignoramus, and Glenn is patiently teaching me how to read my graphs and get on top the technology that has been installed. My grateful thanks for all the hard work done by the team.
Which? Trusted Traders Consumer
Posted on 01/03/2017
, work completed 01/03/2017
Recommended
Can confidently recommend for solar panel installation
I looked at four different companies before going ahead and I have no doubt that Techfor Energy was the best choice - way ahead of the rest. There was very little disruption and it was clear that they all knew their jobs. The scaffolding turned up a day or so ahead of the installation and was taken down a few days later but the actual installation was done in less than a day. I chose this company because, having done my own research, I trusted their technical expertise and advice. They provided information that other companies didn't even touch on. Having run the figures after 18 months, it was also a pleasant surprise to find that they had underestimated the amount of electricity the panels would generate. Another reason to trust this company.
Shortcranks
Posted on 26/01/2017
, work completed 26/01/2017
Recommended
Top Recommendation
All I can say is, as a woman who knew very little about solar and had three quotes, Techfor Energy came up trumps. Came when they said they would, everytime, explained it to me in terms I could understand, very patient, conscientious, did the most detailed and technical appraisal and quote by far compared to the other companies,from the scaffolders to the installers to the electrician, all throughly professional, polite, knowledgeable and helpful. It has been stress free bordering upon pleasurable. Shocking for me in this day and age. finding it all quite fascinating and saving me money in the process. Just finishing off the fit application part now so fingers crossed with their help in filling it in, all should finish smoothly. Would highly recommend Techfor Energy and Glen , my brothers house is next. Thank you
Ali Brooks
Posted on 04/01/2017
, work completed 04/01/2017
Recommended
Cannot fault / better system than expected
Techfor installed a 2.88kwp solar system along with a Tesla Powerwall. Survey was thorough and quotation was very detailed explaining all elements and calculations. Work was carried very efficiently and to a high standard. Solar panels went up on the first day with the Tesla Powerwall going in on the 2nd day, there was an issue with the inverter which was not the fault of Techfor but they organised a replacement swiftly and changed over on the same day as the Powerwall Install and got all working. After sales care is impeccable, they are not an install and walk away company. I would highly recommend Techfor and in fact have been recommending them to a number of people.
garyrhunt
Posted on 22/12/2016
, work completed 22/12/2016
Recommended
Excellent Solar PV firm
First time I used Techfor Energy was for Solar PV installation. Excellent and knowledgeable people who were able to advise us through the entire design, install and FIT process. The second and third times where for general roof repairs in other parts of the house from where the Solar PV has been installed. Really knowledgable and skillful people who have delivered excellent work three times in a row. Follow up calls to ensure that everything was as it should be. I would have no hesitation in recommending them for Solar and roof work.
Richard Bennett
Posted on 21/12/2016
, work completed 21/12/2016
Recommended
Installation of 3.99kWp solar PV System (14 JA Solar panels and Enphase Micro-inverters)
I contacted Techfor very much by chance while I was working nearby. I decided to drop in and enquire about their services and few days later Glenn Ashby dropped in to look at what would be possible. Glenn was thorough in his check of the property height, roof joist suitability, trees surrounding the property, neighbouring properties that may cause shadows and many other aspects of the potential installation. Everything was explained fully and I was shown the reporting and statistics that could be retrieved from the Enphase solar system. The visit was very relaxed and I didn’t feel pressured to make a decision or place an order. After comparison with a few other quotes we decided to use Techfor. The installation process took less than a day and the system has worked reliably since. A few follow-up questions have been answered promptly, accurately and politely by Techfor. Having now had the Enphase system for around 3 months I am pleased with it. I especially find the detailed reporting and live-information invaluable. I absolutely recommend the Techfor team and Glenn.
somesortofusernamegoeshere
Posted on 16/12/2016
, work completed 16/12/2016
Recommended
Solar panels one year on and recent system improvement
It is now a year since having the system installed. I used 4 companies to give me an idea of what costs and systems etc. to use. Of these Techfor Energy were the company that left me feeling most confident with their knowledge and system. I discussed micro inverters for each panel and having them installed inside the roof void which none of the others had fully explained. I am sure in the future that this will save time and money. The installation itself was on the day agreed and carried out completely satisfactorily. The office back up has been good on the odd occasion when I have needed to call. The recent upgrade of hardware will enable me to better use of batteries in 2017 when I hope to install them. Of all the companies Techfor Energy took the most time to ensure their survey prior to the installation of panels was accurate, measuring the roof tiles via a drone as laser survey was not possible due to the close proximity of another building which prevented line of sight. Other companies had used a tape and ground level visual assessment. I would recommend this company to anyone considering panels.
Which? Trusted Traders Consumer
Posted on 14/11/2016
, work completed 14/11/2016
Recommended
Which? Local Review
Straight up there is no hard sell with TechFor, just good quality support as you start the ???due I need/want Solar Panels journey??ù. I knew some of the questions and technical ropes with PV panels and what you could get for you money or not. Techfor Energy (Glenn the owner) carried out a survey including measurements of trees that were likely to impact.All the pre and post work scaffolding etc was on time, the roofers and electrician were very friendly, efficient and tidy . PS: One of friends saw my new PV setup installed by Techfor, and commented how tidy the installation was as his is like a birds nest!
iangray100
Posted on 31/10/2016
, work completed 31/10/2016
Recommended
Many thanks
Installation was done efficiently and quickly over just one day, the whole process took about one month from start to finish. Tech for energy was consistently helpful and pleasant to deal with, particularly with the paperwork and explaining the processes and possibilities. We are delighted with the installation.
Jessica Gatty
Posted on 25/10/2016
, work completed 25/10/2016
Recommended
Fantastic service, highly recommended
Excellent service all round, Extremely thorough preliminary visit, everything explained in infinite detail, no question left unanswered. Very detailed quote, outlining all aspects of the installation and service, tailored specifically to our property, taking into consideration trees & shade, aspect of the property etc. Installation was smooth and efficient and after sales and installation support has been fantastic. A thoroughly professional firm of the highest order. We can't recommend Techfor highly enough, excellent value for money,
Fluffcat7
Posted on 05/10/2016
, work completed 05/10/2016
Recommended
Excellent service and value for money
From start to finish Glen and the team provides an excellent service. The advice is honest and explained to us in straightforward language. No questions were unanswered. The team helped us through the whole process. I cannot fault the company, the staff or the product. Thank you.
Happy Customer
Posted on 20/09/2016
, work completed 20/09/2016
Recommended
Very pleased with this company
We met with several companies for quotations. We were most impressed with Techfor energy as they were very knowledgeable, not pushy, provided a useful amount of information, Sunlight study and figures. They managed to fit in with our tight schedule around a pre-planned holiday so as to install and complete for the FIT deadline. I would have no hesitation in recommending them. In fact we are now discussing with them the next option to install battery storage to utilise the power generated fully.
Which? Trusted Traders Consumer
Posted on 22/07/2016
, work completed 22/07/2016
Recommended
Benchmark service and system
I have been keen on solar for a few years and finally took the plunge in June 2015. The previous year I had a solar "salesman" visit us but even though impressed with the returns was not convinced that everything I was being told was true so decided not to proceed, this was the right decision. I did my own research for a month before choosing Techfor as my provider of solar. My research included reading reviews, costs benefit analysis, longevity of panels, degradation of generation, a whole swathe if information was gathered. Having this information enabled me to ask the right questions when I interviewed 5 prospective companies and only Techfor had all the right answers and made them understandable. Techfor was not the cheapest but was the 2nd cheapest. There are a lot of companies out there that will take advantage of ignorance in a very complex industry, Techfor is not one of them. I was provided a quote as to the amount I would generate. The first array (purely west facing) of 2.5kw installed June 2015 would produce 1799 kw, it actually produced 1905 despite the wet weather! The second array of 1.5kw installed Nov 2015 (purely south facing) is estimated to produce 1472 and has produced 946 as of the 18th July so on target to outperform the estimate. It is true to say that I am very happy and very impressed with Techfor. When batteries are more cost effective I will be using them again without hesitation.
Which? Trusted Traders Consumer
Posted on 20/07/2016
, work completed 20/07/2016
Recommended
4.0 KWp PV Generating System and Support
Techfor Energy installed my 4kW solar system in February 2013. I had considered 3 other suppliers but was impressed with the approach that Glenn Ashby took in carrying out a professional assessment of the overall requirements. As a now retired mechanical engineer myself, it was immediately obvious that Glenn was competent and very knowledgeable of his subject. Glenn made recommendations that no other supplier had suggested such as the fitting of Sister Rafters and also the inclusion of an Immersion water heating unit which was a wise investment. The installation was seamless and carried out efficiently and competently on a day when the weather was not at its best. The system has performed in excess of the original estimates and only recently did a problem arise that was initially thought to be a fault with the inverter. Techfor Energy sourced a replacement and sent an engineer to fit it only to discover that the problem was in fact due to a failure of the immersion heater. Despite the fault being no way connected with the solar installation, Techfor energy made no charge for their time and I thank Glenn Ashby for his generosity in this matter. I am sure that other companies would have small print resulting in a different outcome. I would have no hesitation in recommending Techfor Energy and am confident that the professionalism of Glen Ashby and his team are as good as it gets.
Roger Menaldino
Posted on 28/06/2016
, work completed 28/06/2016
Recommended
6.555kWp solar PV with Enphase micro inverters
I am in the sales industry myself and am regularly left disappointed by companies I employ but I have to say that Glenn Ashby and his team have been absolutely superb from the very first meeting up to completion of my new solar system. His team also upgraded my loft insulation and installed LED lighting all done efficiently and without any hassle whatsoever. I am a very happy customer how has no hesitation recommending Techfor Energy 100%.
Graham Tickner
Posted on 24/06/2016
, work completed 24/06/2016
Recommended
Which? Local Review
It is now just over one year since Techfor installed my solar panels (please see my post at the time). We had several companies visit to quote and each produced their projection of energy generation. Techfor's projection was the lowest and some were significantly higher. The reason for this extra post one year on is to advise that Techfor's projection was within 1% of what we actually achieved. Glenn from Techfor spent far more time on his survey than the others and this is proof that he did the job properly.
R Chandlers Ford
Posted on 11/06/2016
, work completed 11/06/2016
Recommended
Solar Panels & Excellent Advice - Techfor Energy
TECHFOR Energy Surveyed, property, provided advice on selection and finally fitted a Solar Power solution consisting of Solar Panels and power boost to optimize Water heating and maximize the return. Glenn and his team, are very knowledgeable in their field of electrical installation and particularly Solar energy. Glenn, did a thorough, survey of our property, even using a drone to investigate the roof detail and gain accurate measurements. This allowed him to maximize the number of panels and therefore my ability to generate more power. They have a very open attitude to the work they do, taking on-board all the suggestions I made and providing good sound guidance on the best options to meet our needs and requirements. A very professional service with a huge amount of after care.
Which? Trusted Traders Consumer
Posted on 16/05/2016
, work completed 16/05/2016
Recommended
5.985 kWp PV Solar Panels with 6.912 kWh Batteries
I had organised a few quotes for solar panels for our house and discovered Techfor who were the only company to design a system for my house rather than offering a standard package and, when comparing like for like, their price was competitive. I ended up with a system that maximises our use of the generated solar power, using a battery system that also gives security of supply in the case of power cuts. By definition, the installation is non-standard and during final design, an incompatibility was found between the battery pack and the Victron control box. This lead to a change of battery manufacturer and an increase in price, though this increase was shared equally between myself, Techfor and their suppliers, which was a very elegant and equitable solution. Once the permissions were obtained by Techfor, the installation work was timely and efficient with a very high standard of workmanship. The only glitch was setting up the monitoring systems via the internet but this was due more to the geometry of our house and was quickly resolved by using a different means to connect to the internet. The system has now been running for just over a month and we are still trying to learn how to optimise the use of the battery system. However on a very good day, we only use the grid for 4% of our electricity. I would not hesitate to recommend Techfor Energy and their Technical Director Glenn Ashby to anyone who would like to have an engineered and designed solar system for their needs
JOHN FOULKES
Posted on 10/05/2016
, work completed 10/05/2016
Recommended
PV Solar panels
A professional and comprehensive survey followed by a very neat and efficient installation. The system set up when completed, was explained thoroughly. Service and help following has also been exemplary. This is the company you will want to use for making this type of investment.
SLNUNN
Posted on 24/04/2016
, work completed 24/04/2016
Recommended
Supply & Installation of a 4kWp system (09.01.16)
TechFor Energy offered a very thorough service from the moment I first contacted them. Ultimately I was very happy I chose this company to undertake the work and if I would recommend them on that basis. From the initial site survey to the in-depth survey report to the installation all potential issues where highlighted in advanced and corresponding actions taken accordingly meaning we had no surprises after.
RAMANKAHER
Posted on 04/04/2016
, work completed 04/04/2016
Recommended
Solar installation
Excellent, knowledgeable advice Done very quickly as timescale was limited Very approachable Answered every question in depth Brilliant solar panel advice (Glen), outstanding knowledgeable, tidy electrician.
2011-08-07 12:51:32.997
Posted on 27/02/2016
, work completed 27/02/2016
Recommended
Which? Local Review
We looked at all previous reviews carefully before deciding to seek quotes, and given what has been said by other members we had no hesitation in selecting Techfor as the first company to contact. This installation came at a very busy time, with tariffs changing: but their service throughout was very professional and thorough. Glenn Ashby took care to ensure that all aspects were considered carefully and we have been delighted not only with his suggestions and recommendations, but critically with the installation itself and with the levels of energy generated. We happily recommend this company.
DJP123
Posted on 25/02/2016
, work completed 25/02/2016
Recommended
Which? Local Review
Saw this company on the Which site and approached them. Of the 4 companies I checked Techfor Energy were the most reassuring and professional. Not the cheapest but the price was not far off and the work was carried out on time, with no extras and installed neatly and works fine. Their survey was the most professional and ensured that all factors had been taken into account. 16 panels were installed within 6 to 7 hours and the layout is as expected and has withstood all high winds this winter. If you want a good professional company that are honest go to them, my neighbour asked for details and approached them, I did not think he had a suitable roof and they confirmed to him that his roof was not ideal.
Paul Verrall
Posted on 11/02/2016
, work completed 11/02/2016
Recommended
Solar panel installation (3.42Kw, 12 panels)
We looked at four firms, and TechFor Energy visited punctually, did a thorough survey, and gave a thorough report. Glenn Ashby identified some minor things needed to ensure a successful installation without covering up any costs. They were not the cheapest but we decided to choose them because we trusted them. The scaffolding was installed punctually and professionally by a subcontractor. The installation was quick and efficient on the planned date, with very little mess that was cleared up quickly. All the people involved were friendly and competent. TechFor were helpful in steering us through getting the feed-in tariff approved. Since installation we have generated 338KWh in 3.5 months which, given that it was in the winter, suggests that the expected annual output is likely to be received. The sunniest day in the first three months was the first full day after installation, but the installers don't provide the weather. Minor reservations. 1 - We decided to include extra equipment to divert unused power to an immersion heater; this has produced more hot water than we actually used (it works very well) but has so far saved us about £1 worth of gas - probably not financially justified. That was our decision, rather than their recommendation. 2 - They also provide access to an excellent website MyEnlighten that provides constant monitoring of power production; the server for this was down for a couple of days, but without losing any data.
robertd
Posted on 08/02/2016
, work completed 08/02/2016
Recommended
Solar PV Panels
We were worried about installing PV panels on our house and selected Techfor as one of the companies to give us a quote because of the excellent feed-back. We were certainly not disappointed, despite the exceptional pressures on the industry currently because of the anticipated changes in the tariff. Glenn was very thorough when he called to undertake the survey answered all our questions with detailed and factual explanations and made a number of useful suggestions. The subsequent quote was clear and accurate, and the team at Techfor were helpful in answering our questions, and making sure that the necessary paper-work was completed promptly. Despite miserable weather the workmen were prompt efficient and tidy and we are very pleased with our new panels which are generating power in line with expectations. We consider that Glenn is exceptional and happily recommend this firm.
2011-07-16 22:03:35.7
Posted on 16/12/2015
, work completed 16/12/2015
Recommended