Why should I invest in a domestic solar PV system?
Solar energy has seen an increase in popularity in recent years in the UK. Installing, a solar PV system is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to generate electricity. This system converts the rays of the Sun into electricity, which is then used to power your home. Any excess electricity that is generated can be shared into the grid, providing you with further savings.
There are several benefits of a solar PV system:
- First, solar energy is renewable and can be harnessed everywhere in the world, every day.
- One of the most important benefits is the reduction in electricity bills. The more solar energy you generate, the less you pay for electricity from the grid.
- Typically, solar energy systems don’t need extensive maintenance and a cleaning twice a year is sufficient.
- Solar PV systems generate clean energy that does not contribute to carbon emissions to power homes throughout the year.
- They have a life span of over 25 years, so they are a good long-term investment.
- Photovoltaic (or PV) technology is extremely efficient in harnessing sunlight and has a maximum efficiency of approximately 33%. The average residential solar panel generates between 200 and 400 watts per hour in optimal conditions.
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What are the Components of Commercial Solar PV Systems?
Like domestic Solar PV systems, commercial Solar PV systems also have different components that form the whole system. These include:
- Solar panels are the heart of the system, comprising an array of solar cells that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity.
- Inverters convert direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is suitable for use in commercial buildings and the electrical grid.
- The Mounting System secures the solar panels to the roof or ground, optimizing their angle and orientation to maximize sunlight exposure.
- Wiring and Electrical Components are used to connect the solar panels, inverter, and other system components to ensure proper electrical flow.
- The Monitoring and Control System allows users to monitor the system's performance, track energy production, and identify any issues.
- System design considers shading, panel orientation, and tilt angles to maximize energy production.
The size of a commercial solar PV system depends on various factors, such as energy consumption, available space, and budget.
How difficult is it to install a solar PV system?
It is generally not difficult to install solar panels. The size of the system and the complexity of the installation indicate how difficult the installation is. Solar panels fit onto a frame and are then fastened into place on the roof. Furthermore, solar panels are considered permitted developments and do not require planning permission. However, there are exceptions, so it is always a good idea to check with the local planning office for guidance. According to Which? once the scaffolding is up, the panels could be installed in less than a day.
In a nutshell, the size and complexity of your system will affect how long installation takes. Therefore, is always a good idea to ask your installer for an estimate of timings, so you’re prepared.
Does the UK government provide any help to install solar PV systems?
Yes, it is a little-known fact that the UK government does provide help to install solar PV systems to generate electricity. The government’s Green Deal helps residential owners make energy-saving improvements to their homes, as well as find the best way to pay for them. Typical examples of energy-saving improvements include solid wall, cavity wall or loft insulation, heating and drought proofing, double glazing, and renewable energy generation such as solar panels or heat pumps. Homeowners may be able to get a loan through the Green Deal to install solar PV systems, which must be paid back. A Green Deal assessor or provider can help to check the property and suggest energy-saving improvements. However, it is recommended that potential users do their due diligence about the Green Deal providers, as these are private agencies or individuals and the chance of scammers is always present.
The UK government also provides solar panel grants (such as the ECO4 funding). This solar panel grant will cover up to 70% of the cost of solar PV systems for domestic properties.
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