Solar
PV is a renewable energy system which uses photovoltaic modules on the
roof of a building to convert light into electricity. Voltaic cells are
made up of thin layers of semi-conducting material (usually crystalline
silicon) which generate an electrical charge when exposed to direct
light, producing a direct current. This
direct current (DC) is then fed into an inverter which changes it into
a usable alternating current (AC).
Solar PV (Photovoltaics) FAQs
Where can a Solar PV (Photovoltaics) module be installed?
The
location of the PV is vitally important. The modules must receive the
maximum amount of day light possible, so it is not advised to install
the modules in a situation where surrounding buildings or trees may cast
shadows. The best location for a PV solar module is on a south-facing
roof.
What is the difference between Solar Thermal & Solar PV (Photovoltaics)?
Solar Thermal involves water heating collectors which are very
different from PV modules. In Solar Thermal water passes through pipes
in the solar collector and the sun heats the water. This type of system
will only produce hot water and installation will involve changes to
your plumbing and heating system. PV solar modules generate
electricity, which is generally used to power appliances. Installing a
Solar PV (Photovoltaics) system causes little disruption to your home because
apart from a meter and switch which can be installed by your main fuse
box, all the components are outside or in your loft.
What happens when the weather is cloudy or cold?
Solar PV uses light to generate electricity, so the modules still work
when it is cloudy, although when it is overcast they are less
efficient. When it is slightly overcast, the panels may produce as much
as half the power they would in sunny conditions. When the sky is
heavily overcast, this could reduce further. Temperature is less
important than how much light there is. What’s more, a clear cold day
is perfect, because PV modules operate better at cooler temperatures.
What happens if the Solar PV (Photovoltaics) modules get dirty?
Solar PV modules are self cleaning when mounted at an angle of at least
15º. The amount of dirt on the modules depends on their location. If
the modules are in a heavily silted area (e.g. under trees) the build
up of dirt may reduce the power the panel generates by around 10%.
What is the expected life span of a Solar PV (Photovoltaics) system?
Most
solar panels have a lifetime of around 30 years. The PV modules we supply come with a twenty-five year performance guarantee.
How much electricity can a Solar PV (Photovoltaics) system produce in a year?
A
2kW Solar PV System (approximately 16 modules) should produce
around 1,600kWh of electricity per annum. To put this into perspective,
2kWh should run the lighting in an average household using low energy
light bulbs for approximately one week.
Solar PV & Your Home
You can use PV systems for a
building with a roof or wall that faces within 90 degrees of south, as
long as no other buildings or large trees overshadow it. If the roof
surface is in shadow for parts of the day, the output of the system
decreases.
Solar panels are not light and the roof must be strong
enough to take their weight, especially if the panel is placed on top
of existing tiles.
Solar PV installations should always be carried out by a professional installer.
Cost & maintenance
Prices
for PV systems vary, depending on the size of the system to be
installed, type of PV cell used and the nature of the actual building
on which the PV is mounted. The size of the system is dictated by the
amount of electricity required.
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 technician.
Stand-alone systems, i.e. those not connected to the grid, need maintenance on other system components, such as batteries.
Planning considerations
In England, changes to permitted development rights for domestic renewable technologies mean that
most solar PV installations don’t require planning permission, as long
as they respect certain size criteria. Exceptions apply for
installations on flat roofs, Listed Buildings, and buildings in
Conservation Areas and World Heritage Sites.
In Wales, Scotland
and Northern Ireland, the devolved governments are currently all
considering changes to their legislation, to make installations of
microgeneration technologies easier. Legislation is expected in all
three countries later this year. Until then, householders in Wales,
Scotland and Northern Ireland must consult with their local authority
regarding planning permission.
Why not contact Conservenergy
today to discuss how you can dramatically reduce your energy bills.
We provide you with a no obligation quotation together with a free
energy efficiency check.
Solar Photovoltaics
Solar
PV is a renewable energy system which uses photovoltaic modules on the
roof of a building to convert light into electricity. Voltaic cells are
made up of thin layers of semi-conducting material (usually crystalline
silicon) which generate an electrical charge when exposed to direct
light, producing a direct current. This
direct current (DC) is then fed into an inverter which changes it into
a usable alternating current (AC).