Solar PV & Battery Storage Specialists

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, harness sunlight to generate electricity through the photovoltaic effect. Each solar panel consists of multiple solar cells made of semiconductor materials such as silicon. When sunlight strikes these cells, it excites electrons, creating an electric current.

The solar cells are interconnected and encapsulated within a protective layer to form a solar panel. Multiple panels are often installed together to create a solar array, which can be mounted on rooftops or installed in ground-mounted systems.

The electricity generated by the solar panels is direct current (DC), which is then converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter to make it compatible with household appliances and the electrical grid.

The AC electricity can be used to power homes, businesses, or fed back into the grid for credit. Excess energy generated during sunny periods can be stored in batteries for use during periods of low sunlight or at night.

Overall, solar panels offer a renewable and sustainable energy solution by converting sunlight into clean electricity, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and mitigating carbon emissions.

While solar panels can be installed in many locations, their suitability depends on various factors. Here are some considerations:

Sunlight Availability: Solar panels can be installed in a wide range of locations, provided they receive sufficient sunlight. Sunlight availability is often assessed in terms of "peak sun hours," indicating the duration each day when sunlight intensity is optimal for effective solar energy generation.

Roof Orientation and Tilt: The orientation and tilt of the roof or mounting structure can affect the performance of solar panels. Ideally, solar panels should be installed on south-facing roofs with a tilt angle that maximises sunlight exposure. However, panels can still produce electricity with less optimal orientations, although efficiency may be slightly reduced.

Shading: Shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions can significantly impact the performance of solar panels. It's essential to ensure that the installation location has minimal shading throughout the day to maximise energy production.

Overall, while solar panels are suitable for many homes, it's essential to assess factors such as sunlight availability, shading, roof orientation, and local regulations before deciding on a solar energy system. Consulting with a reputable solar installer such as APG Domestic Services can help determine the feasibility and optimal configuration for solar panel installations.

Excess electricity generated by solar panels can be exported to the grid if the system is grid-connected. In some regions, homeowners may sell the energy back to the National Grid at an agreed rate through the Feed-in Tariff scheme.

Another option is to add a battery to your Solar PV system, batteries allow you to store excess electricity generated by your solar panels during the day for use at night or during periods of low sunlight. This increases the self-consumption of solar energy, reducing reliance on the grid and maximizing energy independence.

Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance, typically limited to occasional cleaning to remove dirt, dust, or debris that may accumulate on the panels. Additionally, it's advisable to have periodic inspections to ensure optimal performance of your solar system.