Solar Panels

Solar PV (photo-voltaic) panels convert the energy from daylight into electrical energy. The amount of electricity produced depends on the intensity of the light received by the solar cell. Solar PV panels require only daylight, not sunlight, and are therefore capable of generating electricity on cloudy days. The amount of available daylight in the UK varies with the location of the site. The light energy also varies during different seasons of the year with more daylight available in the summer than in the winter. When in use, Solar PV panels do not generate greenhouse gases or cause pollution. Each kilowatt of electricity produced reduces carbon dioxide emissions compared with electricity generated from fossil fuels. Solar PV Panels work best when mounted as close to south facing as possible, and in an area free from shading caused by trees and other structures such as chimneys.

Solar PV Panel Installations

The most common way of installing panels, though not the only way, is to mount them on a roof. In most instances, planning permission is not required and we undertake a full structural check to ensure the roof can withstand the extra weight. All types of roof are suitable and PV is just as suitable for retrofit as it is for new build. Solar panels are installed easily and can be connected to all types of electrical system with the minimum of disruption.

Solar PV panels are connected together in a series referred to as an array. A grouping of Solar PV panels can be fitted in different configurations depending on the local conditions e.g. to follow the shape of a roof or to avoid a roof light. The array is connected to an inverter which converts the DC electricity produced by the panel to AC electricity which is used in your home. A generation meter is installed to monitor the amount of electricity generated during daylight hours and this forms the basis of the government subsidy, the Feed-In Tariff (FIT).

Feed-In Tariff

In April 2010, the government launched a scheme to essentially subsidise Solar PV. This scheme was called the Feed-In Tariff and results in payments being made to an array owner that are guaranteed for 25 years and are index linked to inflation. The level of income received from the FIT depends on the size and type of array, the location and direction it faces, and the amount of daylight it receives. Income from the FIT is tax-free. To see an illustration of the benefit, please click here.