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Solar electricity
Solar photovoltaic (PV) uses energy from the sun to produce electricity to power appliances and lighting. Only daylight is required to produce power, not direct sunlight so electricity can even be produced on a cloudy day.

How does solar electricity work?
Photovoltaic systems use cells to convert sunlight into electricity. The PV cell consists of one or two layers of a semi conducting material, usually silicon. Electricity is produced when light shines on the cell. An electric field is created across the layers therefore producing electricity. When the intensity of the light is greater, the greater the electrical flow.

These solar systems produce no green house gasses.

Is it suitable for my home?
If you have a building with a roof or wall that faces within 90 degrees of south, and as long as no other buildings or large trees overshadow it then a PV system would be ideal. The efficiency of the system deceases if the roof surface is in shadow for parts of the day.

You need to make sure that your roof is strong enough to take the weight of the solar panels as they are not light. Panels can now be normally installed without planning permission.

Costs and savings
PV systems prices vary naturally on the size of the system to be installed, the type of PV cell used and the type of building. Also the amount of electricity required will also be a determining factor.

Expect to pay between £5,000- £8,000 per kWp for the average domestic system. Conventional panels are cheaper than solar tiles, however panels that are integrated into the roof are also more expensive. If you were having your existing roof renewed, the installation of a Solar PV system would be worth considering.

With a PV system you can save in the region of £150 - £200 off your electricity bill and save up to 1.1 tonnes of CO2.

Very little maintenance is required however, the wiring and components should be checked regularly by a qualified Grid connected systems require very little maintenance, generally limited to ensuring that the panels are kept relatively clean and that shade from trees has not become a problem. The wiring and components of the system should however be checked regularly by a qualified expert.

Where can I find out more about installation?
You can also find details of installers in our UK directory by clicking the button below. They will also be able to inform you of any available grants.

source: Energy Savings Trust


		Home > Energy Advice > Renewables > Biomass Fuels Solar electricity Solar photovoltaic (PV) uses energy from the sun to produce electricity to power appliances and lighting. Only daylight is required to produce power, not direct sunlight so electricity can even be produced on a cloudy day. How does solar electricity work? Photovoltaic systems use cells to convert sunlight into electricity. The PV cell consists of one or two layers of a semi conducting material, usually silicon. Electricity is produced when light shines on the cell. An electric field is created across the layers therefore producing electricity. When the intensity of the light is greater, the greater the electrical flow. These solar systems produce no green house gasses. Is it suitable for my home? If you have a building with a roof or wall that faces within 90 degrees of south, and as long as no other buildings or large trees overshadow it then a PV system would be ideal. The efficiency of the system deceases if the roof surface is in shadow for parts of the day. You need to make sure that your roof is strong enough to take the weight of the solar panels as they are not light. Panels can now be normally installed without planning permission. Costs and savings PV systems prices vary naturally on the size of the system to be installed, the type of PV cell used and the type of building. Also the amount of electricity required will also be a determining factor. Expect to pay between £5,000- £8,000 per kWp for the average domestic system. Conventional panels are cheaper than solar tiles, however panels that are integrated into the roof are also more expensive. If you were having your existing roof renewed, the installation of a Solar PV system would be worth considering. With a PV system you can save in the region of £150 - £200 off your electricity bill and save up to 1.1 tonnes of CO2. Very little maintenance is required however, the wiring and components should be checked regularly by a qualified Grid connected systems require very little maintenance, generally limited to ensuring that the panels are kept relatively clean and that shade from trees has not become a problem. The wiring and components of the system should however be checked regularly by a qualified expert. Where can I find out more about installation? You can also find details of installers in our UK directory by clicking the button below. They will also be able to inform you of any available grants. source: Energy Savings Trust
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