Green energy from sunlight!

Solar panel electricity systems, also known as solar photo-voltaic s (PV), capture the sun’s energy using photo-voltaic s cells. These cells don’t need direct sunlight to work – they can still generate some electricity on a cloudy day.

The cells convert the sunlight into electricity, which can be used to run household appliances and lighting. A typical home solar PV system could save around 1.3 to 1.6 tonnes of carbon per year.

Electricity all year round

A 4kW solar panel system would be enough for the electricity needs of an average UK home. It has an output of 3,400 kWh per year and costs around £2,500. If you compare this to the average annual electricity consumption of a household, which is around 3,200-4,100 kWh, solar panels can cover 83-106% of your electricity demand. In addition, with incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can even earn money for surplus energy exported back to the grid!

Shrinking your energy bills.

 

A typical 4 kWp solar PV system will save you between £280 to £700 every year.

Are Solar Panels Efficient in the UK?

 

Solar panels are very efficient in the UK. Although the efficiency of solar panels is higher on sunny days, they do not need direct sunlight to work. Solar panels can also produce a considerable amount of electricity on cloudy days and during the winter season.

In fact, solar panels are more suited to cooler temperatures. Solar panels can overheat in hot countries, and that reduces their efficiency. Therefore, the UK weather is ideal for solar panels to work optimally.

 

How do solar panels (PV) cells work?

 

PV cells are made from layers of semi-conducting material, usually silicon. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers. The stronger the sunshine, the more electricity is produced. Groups of cells are mounted together in panels or modules that can be mounted on your roof.

The power of a PV cell is measured in kilowatts peak (kWp). That’s the rate at which it generates energy at peak performance in full direct sunlight during the summer. PV cells come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Most PV systems are made up of panels that fit on top of an existing roof, but you can also fit solar tiles.

 

Solar tiles and slates!

 

Solar tiles are designed to be used in place of ordinary roof tiles. A system made up of solar tiles will typically cost around twice as much as an equivalent panel system, although you will save the money you would have spent on roof tiles or slates. Solar tile systems are not normally as cost-effective as panel systems and are usually only considered where panels are not considered appropriate for aesthetic or planning reasons.