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Solar Photovoltaic (PV) FAQs
What is solar energy?
Solar energy is the cleanest and most sustainable of all known energy sources. Radiation emitted from the sun provides us with a plentiful supply of energy. Solar radiation is responsible for almost all the natural processes on the earth and until very recently, the suns energy has been difficult to harness.Does it work in the UK?
Photovoltaic (Electric) cells do not need to be in direct sunlight to work, and will generate electricity even on cloudy days. The brighter the day the greater the energy generated.What is solar photovoltaic (PV) energy?
The photovoltaic (PV) process converts sunlight, directly into electricity. This can be used directly to power everyday electrical devices. It is a misconception that the electricity is created.What is the difference between a kilowatt (kW) and a kilowatt hour (kWh)?
The price we pay for our energy is based on the power rating of an appliance (measured in watts) and the time it is used for. For instance if a 100 watt light bulb is used for ten hours the power used is 1000 watt hours. For ease we refer to 1000 watt hours as 1 kilowatt hour (kWh) and this is the standard unit you will see on your electricity bill. Your gas bill normally measures the number of cubic metres of gas you consume but also converts this figure into kWh. How does the solar PV system work?
A typical PV system uses panels of solar cells, made from semi-conducting materials that react with sunlight to produce electricity. This electricity is then transferred into the property to power appliances and provides lighting, or if surplus to requirements, is sold to the local electricity network. What is a Solar Cell?
Solar cells are the power units of every PV system. A Solar PV cell consists of two thin layers of semi-conducting materials, usually silicon, which has been treated with chemical substances. These chemicals react to sunlight when it shines on the cell, creating an electric field across the layers and producing electricity. The greater the intensity of sunlight, the more the electricity will be converted. This process is called the 'photovoltaic effect'.How do I know what type of solar cell to buy?
Solar cells can be made from a number of semi-conducting materials. A semi-conducting material is one that has a limited capacity for conducting an electrical current and those used in solar cells are all uniquely suited to producing electricity from sunlight - the photovoltaic effect. By far the most commonly used material is silicon, which is the main component of quartz sand and, after oxygen, is the second most common element in the Earth's crust.The performance of a solar cell is measured in terms of its efficiency at turning solar radiation or 'sunlight' into electricity. A typical solar cell has efficiency no greater than 13% - 15% as only a portion of the sunlight energy spectrum can be converted into electricity and much of the sunlight is reflected or absorbed by the materials that make up the cell. If this seems off putting bear in mind that a gas power station has an energy conversion efficiency of only 35% and that 70% of the electricity generated is lost during the long distance transmission to the consumers- you and I.
Most solar PV systems three different types:
- Mono-crystalline-made from thin slices of silicon, cut from a single crystal.
- Polycrystalline-made from thin slices of silicon, cut from a block of crystals.
- Hybrid-made by combining crystalline cells with a very thin layer of electricity conducting silicon atoms on a glass or metal base.
Where do I position my solar panels?
The ideal position is facing due south but systems also work with east / west facing roofs. As well as sloped roofs, panels can be mounted on flat roofs, walls and the ground.Will a solar panel produce electricity on a cloudy day?
Yes, a solar panel does produce electricity even when it is not placed in bright sunlight. On a normal cloudy day there is always enough so-called diffuse light, by which the panel will produce electricity. However, the production of electricity is not as high as when the panels are placed in bright sunlight.Will solar panels work in the winter?
Yes, solar panels work on light not heat. The amount of sun hours will be less in the winter, as the sun rises later and sets earlier.Will a solar panel supply electricity 24 hours a day?
No, solar panels convert light into electricity. So as the light reduces in the day so does the output of the solar panel.What happens if there is a power cut?
The photovoltaic systems for homes are reliant on the grid. If there is a power cut that affects your system then it will automatically switched off. Once power is restored then the system will start working once more.What if I produce more energy than I need?
Whenever your panels are producing more electricity than your home is using, this excess electricity will flow back into the grid for other homes to use. Providing you have an arrangement with your energy company, you'll be paid for this power.Back To Top
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