How Photovoltaic Systems work

Solar Power systems capture the sun's energy using solar photovoltaic cells. The cells convert the sunlight into electricity, which can be used to run household appliances and lighting.  Photovoltaic solar panels don't need direct sunlight to work - you can still generate electricity on a cloudy day.

There are three fundamental ways in which Solar energy can be harnessed for use in buildings. Passive heat is received from the sun naturally, and the design of buildings can harness this through orientation and glazing to reduce the need for heating. A second method of using solar energy is through solar thermal systems that provide hot water. The third method is to use Photovoltaic (PV) energy.

Photovoltaic systems use silicon cells to convert solar radiation into electricity. There are a number of different types of PV, each offering different performance/capital cost ratios.

The main categories of PV system available on the market today are crystalline silicon and thin film. Crystalline silicon cells are the most commonly used today, representing about 90% of the market. They are manufactured from thin slices cut from a single crystal of silicon (monocrystalline) or from a block of silicon crystals (polycrystalline)

PV modules convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity which is then converted into alternating current (AC) by inverters. The electricity can be used on-site or exported back to the grid.

Given the variability of the UK’s weather, is it really viable to use sunlight as an energy source. However, for Photovoltaic systems it is the intensity of the light that affects the amount of electricity produced. A PV system does not require bright sunlight to operate and will produce energy cloudy or rainy days. Because of the damp nature of northern European climates, it is really important to ensure that your PV system is built to last. Our PV panels come with a market leading 12 YEAR product warranty.

The inverter is an important part a PV system. It ensures that the output voltage from the PV modules is slightly higher than the voltage coming from the grid. This means that appliances will use the electricity from the PV system before drawing from the grid – thus reducing consumption of more expensive electricity. Surplus electricity from the PV system will be automatically exported back to the grid.

Our Government has recognised the potential for Photovoltaic systems for both domestic and commercial buildings and has introduced the Feed-in-Tariffs as an incentive to encourage take-up with the aim of giving a 8-12% return of investment.

What you'll need to consider when investing in solar panels

You'll need a roof that faces within 90 degrees of south, and isn't substantially overshadowed by trees or buildings, and is in good condition. We will establish the suitability of your roof during the technical survey.

The nature of PV panels mean there is little or no maintenance required as the photovoltaic systems have no moving parts. Typically, PV panels are designed to deliver a life expectancy of up to 30 years with no maintenance work required beside an annual clean.