Online solar kit and parts shop

DIY buyers, campervan and caravan owners, boat owners, smallholders and some small installers who need parts quickly.

A margin on each product sold, plus bundled kits that raise the order value. Helpful guides and advice build trust and repeat orders.

• Basic understanding of solar kit and how it fits together
• Online selling and customer service
• Writing clear product guides

• Check whether you need to register as a producer under the UK electrical waste (WEEE) and battery rules when selling these products
• Product liability and public liability insurance, ask a broker about cover for selling electrical goods
• Make sure products carry the right UK safety markings and come with clear instructions
• Customers who want grid-connected home systems usually need a qualified installer, so be careful what advice you give
• Consumer returns and distance selling rules, check what applies to your shop

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £1,500 to £7,000, depending on your website, how much stock you hold and whether a wholesaler ships direct. Shipping direct can keep the money tied up in stock low.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £800 to £4,000, depending on your niche, your prices and how well you attract customers. That is revenue before costs such as stock, shipping, returns and website fees.

Check whether you need to register under the UK electrical waste (WEEE) and battery rules, and that products carry the right UK safety markings with clear instructions. Be careful with advice, as grid-connected home systems usually need a qualified installer.