How Solar Panels Work
Solar power works by converting light energy into electrons. Solar PV cells use mono-crystalline -polycrystalline – thin film or amorphous material to convert this light energy. They work by absorbing the light energy from the sun and transferring it to the DC current this passes to an inverter that changes the electric current from DC to AC, after which it is fed into your home`s ordinary mains supply.
Surplus energy that is not used is passed automatically to the National Grid.
Lots of people worry that solar panels will only work on clear, sunny days but solar PV’s work on solar/sun energy rather than heat so this is nothing to worry about. The amount produced will vary in the seasons however as long as there is light penetrating the clouds the system will generate electricity.
Maintenance of PV system It`s minimal and you will have the pleasure of monitoring your savings mount on the system`s built-in meter!!!
Benefits of Solar Panels
Installing solar panels in your home or business can bring huge benefits from reducing your carbon foot print to making savings on your monthly bills.
Get green!
As a renewable energy source solar power is the green alternative to non-renewable energy sources such as gas, coal and nuclear power. By installing solar panels your carbon footprint will be reduced.
Save money
There are also lots of financial benefits to installing solar PV in your house.
Invest in the future
By installing solar panels you are investing in the future. The increased interest in renewable energy means that solar panels can increase the value of the property by up to 10%. Plus once installed solar panels lasts 30-40 years making them a great long term investment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar PV
Do you need a lot of light to make solar panels work?
It is a common misconception that solar panels will only work in sunny places. In fact, solar PV panels use daylight (light) rather than sunlight (heat) so you don’t need lots of hot sun to make electricity. Photons from daylight travel through the clouds to the panels to get turned into electricity. Obviously more photons will get to the panels on clear sunny days making your energy production seasonal though you should be able to produce sufficient amounts all year round.
Will I produce enough for my house?
This depends on two things: the needs of your household and the system you choose to install. The average house will use 3300kWh per year. The average 4kwp PV system will produce 90% of this energy. The good thing about solar PV is that you can top up your energy as much as you need from the National Grid.
What if I produce too much energy?
Solar PV’s converts daylight into a direct current into your home. You might find, especially in the summer, that you are producing too much energy. The great thing about solar PV is that you can sell your electricity back to the National Grid under the Government’s Export Tariff, making extra income for any leftover energy.
How are Solar PV’s installed?
The installation of Solar PV’s is quite simple and non intrusive but it will require scaffolding. To install system firstly anchors are put in and the framework is built onto which the panels themselves will be fitted. Then the wiring for the direct current is set up from the installation site to the house. Finally the panels are fitted in place.
How do I know if my house is suitable?
Call us on 0845 4755 519 and SolarLDN will come out to your property to do a survey. The only prerequisites for solar panels is that the installation space is not blocked from daylight and is South,East or West-facing. As solar PV’s can be installed on any roof, wall or ground horizontally or vertically you are likely to be suitable for solar PV installation. If SolarLDN’s survey recommends your property we will give you a quote for the installation.
How much will Solar PV cost me?
Each installation will be different based on your property and your household needs. We will be able to give you a more accurate quote after a survey has been carried out. For a survey and quotation or to ask us any questions about Solar PV’s, please ring us on 0845 4755 519 for more a friendly chat.