Solar Photovoltaic
How does Solar PV work?
A Solar PV module is made up of monocrystalline cells which consist of two or more thin layers of semi-conducting chemically treated silicon materials. The chemicals react when light hits the cell, creating an electric field across the layers, producing a direct current. The greater the light intensity, the greater the flow of electricity. This direct current (DC) is then fed into an inverter which changes it into a usable alternating current (AC) producing solar energy.
Where can I install my Solar PV modules?
The location of the Solar 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 situations where surrounding buildings or trees may cast shadows. The best location for a Solar PV module is on a south facing roof. There are various mounting arrangements including on-roof, in-roof and flat roof kits, both landscape and portrait.
What happens when the weather is cloudy or cold?
Solar PV Panels use light to generate electricity, so the modules still work when it is cloudy, although when it is overcast they are less efficient at producing solar energy. 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 Solar PV modules operate better at cooler temperatures.
What happens if the 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%. Solar PV modules should be expected to last at least 25 years, since there are no moving parts. The Solar PV modules have a twenty-five year performance guarantee.
Can I sell the electricity I produce back to the energy supplier?
Most electricity suppliers will pay for power fed into the Grid (feed-in) from domestic Solar PV systems. The easiest way to do this is by signing up to a ‘Buy Back’ or ‘Feed-in Tariff’ scheme with your power supplier. There are two main types of tariff available:
Generation: You are paid for all of the electricity that your Solar PV system generates even if you consume it in your home.
Export: You are paid for just the electricity that is exported back to the Grid and not for any electricity you have consumed.
What are Feed-in Tariffs (FIT)?
On 1st February 2010, the Government announced new standard generation Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) rates which for 1st April 2010, which are guaranteed for 25 years. This new payback scheme, results in a shorter payback for Solar PV systems, making them an extremely attractive green option for any home. Solar PV systems registering with the scheme between 1st April 2010 and 31st March 2011 will benefit from the following:
Any system less than 4kW on a new build = 36.1p per kW payback
Any system less than 4kW on a retrofit = 41.3p per kW payback
Any system 4-10kW new build or retrofit = 36.1p per kW payback
Any system 10-100kW new build or retrofit = 31.4p per kW payback
This means that if you normally pay 12p per kWh for your electricity, you would effectively get both the power consumed for free and the fit. So on a retrofit system below 4kW this would mean 12p + 41.3p = 53.3p per kWh saving!
Any Solar PV system installed after the 15th July 2009 is eligible for this Feed-in Tariff at the above rate, provided the system uses MCS approved equipment and has been fitted by an MCS accredited installer.
To benefit from this renewable energy solution, visit our Solar PV section now to view our latest products.
