The Glow blog
Straight answers on solar, storage, EV charging and home electrics.
85 guides written for Northern Ireland homes and businesses — costs, standards, grants and how the kit actually behaves.
Solar & storage · 1 October 2026
Do solar panels need to face south in Northern Ireland?
Compare Belfast solar output by roof direction, with modelled graphs. Understand shading, optimisers and LONGi and AIKO technology before choosing a system.
Solar & storage · 18 September 2026
Adding a battery to the solar panels you already have in Northern Ireland.
Already have solar? How to add a battery in Northern Ireland: the two routes, what it means for ROC payments, NIE Networks rules and 0% VAT to March 2027.
Solar & storage · 27 August 2026
No south-facing roof, 69% self-sufficient: a Belfast install in numbers.
A real east Belfast job: 6.3 kWp split across three roof faces with no south aspect, a wall-mounted SigenStor and a Tesla. The full design figures, honestly.
Solar & storage · 26 August 2026
Solar panels on an oil-heated home in Northern Ireland: does it actually help?
Most NI homes heat with oil. Here is what solar, a battery and a hot-water diverter genuinely change on an oil-heated house — and what they don't.
Solar & storage · 26 August 2026
Is a home battery worth it without solar panels?
You can fit a battery with no panels and charge it on cheap overnight electricity. When that pays in Northern Ireland, when it doesn't, and what it costs.
Solar & storage · 26 August 2026
Farm solar in Northern Ireland: which sheds pay, and what it takes.
Dairy, poultry and grain sheds have the roof and the daytime load solar wants. What pays on an NI farm, the 20% NISEP grant, three-phase and G99 explained.
Solar & storage · 26 August 2026
Commercial solar in Northern Ireland: how to build the business case.
How to work out whether solar pays for your NI business: half-hourly data, self-consumption, the 20% NISEP grant, G99 approval and what a real quote shows.
Solar & storage · 22 August 2026
Solar export payments in Northern Ireland, explained.
No Smart Export Guarantee in NI — so how are you paid for surplus solar? Supplier export tariffs (Power NI 11.88p/kWh), export meters, NIE Networks registration.
Solar & storage · 22 August 2026
Do I need planning permission for solar panels in Northern Ireland?
Most NI homes need no planning permission for roof solar: permitted development limits (200 mm, below the ridge), conservation-area and listed-building rules.
Solar & storage · 22 August 2026
Which home battery is best in Northern Ireland? Hinen A Series vs Sigenergy SigenStor vs EcoFlow PowerOcean.
Hinen vs Sigenergy SigenStor vs EcoFlow PowerOcean: capacity, backup, EV charging, warranty and who each suits — from an NI installer who fits all three.
EV charging · 30 July 2026
EV Charger Grants Available in Northern Ireland
Discover EV charger grants in Northern Ireland, including eligibility, funding amounts, application steps, and installation costs for 2026.
EV charging · 23 July 2026
Home EV Charger Installation: What You Need to Know
Learn about EV charger installation in Northern Ireland, including costs, grants, installation steps, and how to choose the right installer.
Solar & storage · 16 July 2026
How to Choose the Right Solar PV Installer Near You
Learn how to choose a trusted solar PV installer in Northern Ireland, what qualifications to check, installation costs, and available grants.
Solar & storage · 9 July 2026
Are Solar Panels and Battery Storage Worth It Together?
Learn how solar panels and battery storage work together to cut energy bills, store excess power, and maximise savings across the UK.
Solar & storage · 2 July 2026
How Solar Panels Work Without the Jargon
Learn how solar panels work, cut energy bills, store power, and earn export payments with this simple guide for UK homeowners.
Solar & storage · 25 June 2026
Solar Panel Installation Costs in Northern Ireland
Discover solar panel costs in Northern Ireland, system sizes, savings, grants, and how to maximise energy efficiency at home or business.
Solar & storage · 26 March 2026
Battery Storage for Solar in Northern Ireland: How to Power Your Home Day and Night
What a solar battery does in a Northern Ireland home — how it works overnight, what size you need, costs at 0% VAT until March 2027, and what happens in a power cut.
EV charging · 12 February 2026
EV Charging Installation in Northern Ireland: Your Complete Home & Business Guide
Master the essentials of EV charging in Northern Ireland. Get the 2026 guide on home & business costs, £500 OZEV grants, and expert installation tips.
Solar & storage · 5 February 2026
Solar Panel Installations in Belfast: How Much Can You Really Save in 2026?
Discover how solar panel installations in Belfast can save you up to £1,000+ annually in 2026. Learn about 0% VAT, costs, and typical payback periods.
EV charging · 15 January 2026
Is a home EV charger worth it in Northern Ireland?
Weigh up home EV charging against your mileage, parking and electricity tariff. See what affects the cost and request a Northern Ireland installation quote.
EV charging · 2 January 2026
Home EV charging costs in Northern Ireland
Understand installation costs, electricity tariffs and solar charging before booking. Glow Electric installs EV chargers in Northern Ireland from £625.
EV charging · 18 December 2025
EV Charging at Home: The Smartest Upgrade for Your Driveway
Charge your EV smarter and cheaper! Discover the benefits and simple steps for installing the ultimate EV home charging station right on your driveway.
Solar & storage · 11 December 2025
Solar Panels NI: How Homeowners Are Cutting Bills and Going Green in 2026
Considering solar panels in NI? Learn how homeowners are slashing energy bills and embracing green energy and self-sufficiency using PV technology this year.
Solar & storage · 4 December 2025
Going Green: How Solar Panels and EV Charging Are Powering Belfast Forward
Discover how solar panels and EV charging are boosting sustainability in Belfast — cutting costs, reducing emissions, and powering a greener future.
EV charging · 20 November 2025
How Belfast Businesses Benefit from Installing Commercial EV Charging Stations
Discover how Belfast businesses benefit from commercial EV charging stations — attract customers, boost sustainability, and future-proof your operations.
EV charging · 13 November 2025
EV Home Charging Installation: Grants, Costs & Setup in Northern Ireland
Explore EV home charging in Northern Ireland — from grants and costs to setup tips. Make charging your electric car easy and affordable at home.
EV charging · 16 October 2025
How to Prepare Your Business for EV Charging Points
Ready to go electric? Get the business plan! Learn how to prepare your site for EV charging points to attract staff and customers.
EV charging · 2 October 2025
The Future of Driving: Why You Need EV Home Charging Installation in Belfast
Make sure you are following all the instructions in your internal documentation. Unlock the potential of your electric vehicle!
EV charging · 18 September 2025
Commercial EV Charging Station Installation: What Businesses in Belfast Need to Know
Navigating commercial EV charger installation in Belfast? We cover the key details, from grants and costs to power needs and local regulations.
Solar & storage · 11 September 2025
Are solar panels worth it in Belfast and Northern Ireland? The 2026 answer.
A Belfast installer's straight 2026 answer: NI solar costs (from £4,200, 0% VAT), where the savings come from, export payments, and when it isn't worth it.
Solar & storage · 14 August 2025
How Solar Panels Work with Battery Storage for Belfast Homes
Learn how solar panels with battery storage power Belfast homes, cut energy bills, and provide reliable, eco-friendly electricity all year round.
EV charging · 1 August 2025
The Benefits of Installing a Smart EV Charger in Your Belfast Home
Discover the benefits of installing a smart EV charger at your Belfast home—save time, cut costs, charge efficiently.
EV charging · 24 July 2025
What to Expect During a Home EV Charger Installation in Belfast
Get ready for your home EV charger installation in Belfast! Learn about the process, from initial survey to final testing and demonstration.
EV charging · 14 July 2025
How to Choose the Right EV Charger for Your Home in Belfast
Choosing an EV charger for your Belfast home? Learn key factors like power, smart features, and installation to find the perfect fit.
EV charging · 12 June 2025
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Installation, Costs, and Grants for UK Homeowners
Curious about EV charger costs and savings? This guide breaks down installation, pricing, and UK grant options.
Solar & storage · 8 May 2025
Renewable Energy Solutions: Combining Solar Panels with Battery Storage
Maximise your renewable energy with solar panels and battery storage—store power, cut bills, and stay prepared.
EV charging · 11 April 2025
A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Home EV Charging Points
Easy guide to installing EV chargers at home. Learn about setup, costs, and benefits. Charge your electric vehicle conveniently!
Solar & storage · 7 April 2025
The Future of Energy: How Solar Panels Can Reduce Your Electricity Bills
Cut your electricity bills with solar panels. See how this long-term solution can future-proof your home energy.
Solar & storage · 3 March 2025
Why Solar Panels Are a Smart Choice for Homes and Businesses in Belfast
Going green in Belfast? Discover why solar panels are a smart investment for local homes and businesses.
EV charging · 19 February 2025
How to Choose the Right EV Charging Station for Your Home
Not sure which home EV charger to get? Learn what to consider—from power levels to smart features.
Solar & storage · 31 January 2025
The Benefits of Regular Solar Panel Cleaning for Maximum Output
Dirty panels = less power. Discover why regular solar cleaning boosts output and keeps your energy bills low.
Solar & storage · 30 January 2025
Solar Panel Installation 101: Tips for a Successful Setup
Get the most from your solar setup with our top tips for smooth, efficient, and cost-effective solar panel installation.
EV charging · 28 January 2025
What Makes an Electric Car Charge Faster? Insights into Rapid Charging Technology
Why do some EVs charge quicker than others? Get insights into rapid charging and how to power up in record time.
Solar & storage · 26 September 2024
Solar Panel Sizing: Find Out How Many Panels You Really Need
Wondering how many solar panels you need? Learn how to size your system right for maximum efficiency and savings.
EV charging · 19 September 2024
How Long Does It Take To Charge An Electric Car At A Fast Charging Station
Fast EV charging decoded. Find out how long it really takes and what affects your car’s charging speed.