Solar PV systems offer a green and cost-effective way to generate electricity and income for your household or organisation. Find out the answers to some commonly asked questions.
Why use solar PV?
Solar PV produces energy cleanly and efficiently with the following advantages:
- Maintenance: Solar PV requires little maintenance
- Expandability: Solar PV can be expanded easily as requirements grow
- Free Energy: Solar energy is effectively free once setup costs have been recouped
- Environmentally Friendly: Solar PV is green and produces no carbon emissions
- Durability: Solar PV systems are durable
What are the disadvantages?
There is a cost associated with setting up a solar PV system. Usually this is recovered well within the lifetime of the system and the "payback time" is further reduced by grants and other subsidies.
How does it work?
The solar panel converts sunlight into direct (DC) current electricity. This then passes into an inverter which convert the DC current into AC current which feeds into the electricity supply. When more electricity is produced than is required, it is sold back to the energy company. At night, electricity is used from the National Grid.
Will they work when it's cloudy?
Yes, although the output may be reduced than when it is sunny. Technology has advanced to a degree where solar PV is highly viable in cloudy climates.
How much electricity do I need?
The average house requires 3.3kWh of electricity a year.
What if there is a power cut?
As solar PV systems are connected to the National Grid, your system will be automatically switched off in the event of a power cut as a safety precaution.