Solar PV Energy (Domestic & Commercial)

Photovoltaic solar panels

Solar photovoltaic’s (PV) known commonly as solar panels, or just PV in the industry, they are the large flat, black glass panels that are usually put on roofs to convert sunlight into electricity. PV cells come in a variety of shapes and colours, from roof and wall mounting panels to grey “solar tiles” that can look like roof slates. There are even panels available with the solar cells spaced apart to allow some sunshine through for conservatory roofing, for example. The technology behind them is improving at an impressive rate, allowing them to become more and more efficient and effective at generating electricity regardless of what you might think about the UK weather!

PV solar panels and solar heating systems are commonly confused with each other, which is perhaps understandable given that both can be described as ‘solar power’.

How it all works!!

In Simple terms – Photovoltaic (PV) panels can be mounted on a roof or ground mounted. Ideally the roof will be south facing, or near to at an angle of 30 degrees with the horizontal for optimum performance. Sunlight/Daylight hits the panels and the cells, the panels get excited and create something called “Direct Current” (DC for short). That is then sent to an “Inverter” which converts it into “Alternating Current” (AC for short), which is suitable for your household. The “AC” electricity is then sent to the distribution board or Fuse Box and is either used in your house or sold back by you to the National Grid, making you money!!