Thinking about in‑roof solar panels in Horwich? This case study shows why integrated solar is gaining traction across Bolton and Greater Manchester.
Our client in Horwich recently replaced his roof and used the opportunity to install a 7.1 kW Viridian Clearline Fusion in-roof PV system paired with a 22 kWh Fox ESS battery.
The result is a flush‑fitting, high‑performance array that looks like part of the roof and delivers energy independence.
Why go in‑roof? Key benefits of Viridian Clearline Fusion
The Viridian Clearline Fusion system integrates panels directly into the roof, replacing sections of tile or slate. On Viridian’s official website, they highlight several advantages over above‑roof systems:
- Rapid installation: Viridian’s push‑fit connections slide together to create a weather‑tight seal, allowing panels to be fitted quickly.
- Compact design: Industry‑leading panel spacing packs more power into a given area.
- Sleek appearance: Invisible clamps give an uncluttered, flush finish that blends seamlessly with slate or tile roofs.
- Simple integration: The system requires no modifications to the existing roof structure, making it suitable for new builds and refurbishments alike.
- Durable and certified: Clearline Fusion is the only roof‑integrated solar system with independent third‑party accreditation confirming its expected lifetime.
- Robust against weather: It offers wind resistance more than four times higher than rival products and achieves the highest fire rating without extra battens.
- Universal application: Kits work with both slate and tile roofs and can accommodate roof windows and complex shapes.
- Patented weathertight connection: Panels slide together to form a secure, leak‑free seal, maintaining the integrity of the roof.
- Fast installation time: Typical fitting times are under 45 minutes per kilowatt of panels.
- Meets NHBC Technical Requirements: Clearline Fusion’s British Board of Agrément certificate confirms compliance with 2024 NHBC standards for durability and wind resistance.
- High kerb appeal: The integrated design enhances the look of the property, making it ideal for homeowners who want a premium, streamlined finish.
System specifications of the In-Roof Solar Panels in Horwich
For this Horwich installation, we designed a 7.1 kW Viridian system using 16 × 445 W modules and a FoxESS KH7 hybrid inverter. Two Fox ESS EP11 batteries provide 20.72 kWh of usable storage, giving the homeowner over 20.72 kWh of capacity after accounting for usable energy.
This setup ensures there is ample energy for evening use and enough headroom to take advantage of energy‑saving tariffs. The batteries have a 10-year warranty, while the panels offer a 15-year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty.
The system’s performance estimates show 95% self-consumption, meaning almost all the generated electricity will be used on-site. Only 5 % is expected to be exported back to the grid, thanks to the large battery and smart settings.
A seamless installation of in-roof solar panels in Horwich with a new roof
Because our client was replacing his roof, we coordinated the roofing contractor and our installation team. We removed the old tiles, fitted the Viridian panels flush with the new roof membrane and battens, and re‑tiled around them.
Our crew installed the inverter and batteries in a dedicated plant room and completed electrical commissioning in just two days, even while the roofing work continued. Installing solar during a re‑roof reduces labour costs and avoids having to remove tiles again in the future, making it a cost‑effective approach.
The Fox ESS hybrid inverter and twin EP11 batteries were mounted on a block wall in the customer’s garage. This tidy setup keeps everything accessible for maintenance and allows for future expansion. High‑quality cables, DC isolators and surge protection ensure the system meets all MCS and electrical standards.
Using the Octopus Flux tariff to maximise returns
One of the standout features of this project is the pairing with Octopus Flux. According to energy experts, Octopus Flux is a solar import and export tariff with peak and off‑peak periods.
Homeowners can charge the battery when grid electricity is cheap (typically between 2 am and 5 am) and then export it back or use it at home during the 4 pm–7 pm peak window. The average solar home can reduce bills by around £926 per year on this tariff. To qualify, you need solar panels, a battery and a smart meter that allows the connection with Octopus.
Octopus Flux therefore turns the battery into an energy trading device: when the sun is shining, the Viridian panels fill the battery; when it’s cloudy or the sun has set, the system can top up using cheap overnight electricity. During expensive peak periods, you draw from the battery instead of the grid or even export energy for profit. This strategy helps the grid by shifting demand away from peak hours.
Why combine a roof replacement with solar?
For many homeowners, a new roof is a major investment. Integrating solar at the same time offers several benefits:
- Cost savings: Installing an in‑roof system during a re‑roof eliminates the need for traditional roof tiles in that area and reduces labour costs, since roofing and solar crews work concurrently. Viridian’s system is competitively priced against above‑roof options.
- Aesthetics: Flush‑fitting panels blend seamlessly with modern tiles. In this case, the new roof features uniform red tiles with black solar sections, enhancing curb appeal and property value.
- Durability: Viridian’s system is independently certified for high wind resistance and durability. With integrated flashing and weatherproof seals, the roof remains watertight and compliant with building regulations.
- Future‑proofing: By choosing a hybrid inverter and a large battery bank now, the homeowner can add an electric vehicle charger or heat pump later without major upgrades.
Local expertise you can trust
Flux Solar Energy is a Bolton-based, MCS-accredited installer serving Horwich, Westhoughton and the wider North-West. We handle everything in‑house, from initial survey and system design to installation, roofing coordination and handover.
Our team is trained in both electrical and roofing techniques, ensuring integrated systems are fitted safely and look great. Every project comes with insurance‑backed warranties and consumer protection from HIES and TrustMark.
If you’re considering a new roof or want to upgrade your existing one with in‑roof solar panels, we’re here to help.
Thinking of in‑roof solar panels in Horwich or Greater Manchester?
This project shows that it’s possible to install a 7.1 kW in-roof solar system with a 20.72 kWh battery in just a couple of days while your roof is being replaced.
The Viridian Clearline Fusion system provides sleek aesthetics and superior wind resistance, while the Octopus Flux tariff allows you to buy low and sell high. Combined, these features deliver high self‑consumption (95 %) and a significant reduction in energy bills.
If you’re interested in integrating solar with your roof project, or you want to upgrade to a battery system that maximises export tariffs, contact Flux Solar Energy today.
Our team will provide a free, no‑obligation quote and explain how we can tailor an in‑roof system to your home.
