Residents across Lancashire are increasingly turning to solar and battery storage to reduce bills, protect against rising energy prices, and gain more control over their home electricity usage. In this case study, we take a closer look at a recent installation in Preston, where the homeowner wanted a high-performance solar system with a clean aesthetic and reliable whole-home backup. This installation in Preston features Aiko solar panels combined with a Tesla Powerwall 3 for a high-performance home energy setup.
Apex Doma designed a tailored energy solution based on their property layout, annual energy consumption, and long-term energy goals.
System Overview
For this installation, our team installed:
- 18 × Aiko 470W high-efficiency solar panels
- On-roof mounting system
- Full bird mesh protection to prevent nesting beneath panels
- Solar skirt for a sleek, premium-looking finish
- Tesla Powerwall 3
- Tesla Backup Gateway for whole-home backup capability
- Smart monitoring via the Tesla app
Every component was selected to maximise generation, increase storage capacity, and maintain a clean look on the roof.
Why This Preston Homeowner Chose Aiko Solar Panels
Aiko’s 470W panels are among the most efficient residential modules available, meaning fewer panels are required to achieve high output. For homeowners with a decent-sized roof but wanting maximum power per panel, Aiko is one of the strongest options on the market.
For this Preston home, 18 panels created an impressive 8.46 kW system, capable of generating approximately 8,000–8,500 kWh per year depending on weather and seasonal conditions.
Tesla Powerwall 3 – The Heart of the System
Pairing high-generation panels with battery storage is crucial for maximising self-consumption and increasing savings. The homeowner chose the Tesla Powerwall 3, Tesla’s latest and most powerful residential battery.
Key benefits for this home:
- Charges from excess solar during the day
- Charges cheaply overnight on off-peak tariffs
- Automatically powers the home during outages
- Works seamlessly with the Tesla app
- Large capacity and high discharge rate
With the Backup Gateway, the Powerwall 3 now provides instant whole-home backup, allowing the property to continue operating normally even if the grid goes down.
Bird Mesh + Solar Skirt – Aesthetic & Functional Improvements
Pigeon protection is an increased concern across Lancashire. Bird mesh prevents nesting under the panels, protecting the customer’s investment and maintaining system hygiene long-term.
The solar skirt gives the system a flush, uniform edge, improving roof aesthetics and hiding the panel underside — ideal for homeowners wanting a polished, premium look.
Performance & Savings
With this system, the homeowner can expect:
- 8,000–8,500 kWh annual generation
- Significant reduction in daytime grid usage
- Lower reliance on peak-rate electricity
- The ability to power the home during outages
- Better long-term ROI due to high-efficiency panel choice
The combination of Aiko panels + Tesla Powerwall 3 positions this property for strong financial and energy resilience benefits for years to come.
Installation Summary
- Installation completed in 2 days
- Panel layout designed to maximise sunlight exposure
- All cabling routed discreetly for a clean finish
- System commissioned and handed over with full customer training
- App connected for real-time tracking and control
As with all Apex Doma projects, the emphasis was on clean workmanship, safety, and long-term performance.
Customer Feedback
“Great from start to finish – from the point of first contact through to completion the team was there to provide the information needed and advise on requirements- end up with a very neat installation.”
Thinking About Solar in Preston or Lancashire?
Whether you’re considering solar panels, battery storage, or full backup capability, get in touch today. Apex Doma installs systems across Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside and surrounding areas.
