PV solar panels, installations and MCS-installers for the UK's savviest homeowners
PV solar panels in the UK's climate do work and will still be providing in three-decades time.
In a nutshell.
PV (photovoltaic) cells produce electrons. Electrons will naturally gravitate to where they're earthed/needed. In a PV solar context, that maybe your TV, battery storage or credited by your energy provider.
A display unit is provided to check performance.
The science bit.
Photons strike cells to create electrons that stream to Earth.
Specifications:
1-4kW Monocrystalline. 280-300 Watts per panel.
It's good to know:
Photovoltaic's degradation rate is 80% generation capacity after twenty years of operation.
Lifespans and warranties, consisting of decades, comes as standard with modern PV-tech.
"There are an estimated 900,000 homes with PV solar panels in the UK currently."
A different perspective.
The combustion engine was the most significant machine developed by humanity, yet for most of its lifespan; lay dormant on the driveway.
When in use, the rev counter varies from 1,000 to 6,000 RPM depending on road conditions and brings its owner a sense of pride (maybe) with usefulness spanning a single decade typically.
The same is correct with photovoltaics. However, the usefulness continues beyond its initial operating time with battery storage.
While operational, the performance counter also varies depending on atmospheric conditions and brings a sense of pride (maybe) with usefulness spanning three-decades typically.
The UK receives 60% of the sun's radiation compared with the equator. Each square metre of your roof receives between 900-1,400 kWh annually.
How much will PV generate?
A PV system in the UK will generate approximately 750 kWh/year per kW installed. Thus, a simple 1kW system will provide around 900 kWh per year, and a 5kW system produce's about 4,500 kWh.
How much does PV cost?
The cost of a PV solar panel installation depends on several factors but usually based on system size. A consultation appointment can be arranged to give options and prices.
PV cells are bombarded with photons during daylight hours. Electrons are created.
The Inverter switches the resulting current from AC to DC.
The power will go to technology in your home first, then battery storage.
Electricity generated will be recorded in the management system.
Simply, fit and forget.
What happens to surplus power?
When a system is producing excess power, it will automatically feed the power out to the National Grid, and you'll get credited for your contribution via your power company. It has never been such a good time to install.
Your yearly electric bill x 30 years (panel lifespan).
+3% (average yearly inflation) equals your future energy costs.
Compare this figure to the cost of installing PV solar panels.
(This simplistic equation doesn't take into account any future energy price rises).
Why PV in cooler climates?
Actually, photovoltaics work more efficiently in cooler temperatures.
Degradation of the panels occurs much quicker in hotter climates, just like redlining your car engine will reduce its lifespan and efficiency.
Can PV heat my hot water?
PV-to-hot water converters heat traditional hot water tanks by using daytime solar-generated electricity redirected to the heating coil. This device eliminates the need for your boiler to heat water.
Can I install myself?
In most cases, no.
Installing DIY solar panels can work out cheaper. However, installations must get certified by accredited MCS-installers only.
Although PV-arrays take a lot of roof space, most homes in the UK are suitable. Additionally, they can be ground-mounted A-frames if a roof is unsuitable.
What does grid-connected mean?
Any excess electricity produced will be directed out to the National Grid, and you will be credited accordingly (if battery storage is not present).
Any deficit between in power generation automatically draws from your electricity supplier as per usual.
Do I need planning permission?
No planning permission is required unless on a listed building or conservation area.
What maintenance is required?
No maintenance is required because PV is a 'solid-state' energy conversion process.
Is fitting expensive?
Fitting costs account for 55% of the final installation.
Do PV solar panels work on cloudy days?
This answer depends on the density of the cloud. In average cloud densities, the sun can penetrate. With very, heavy dark, dense cloud cover, probably not. As an example, use a solar-powered calculator, and it will work fine.
Once installed on the roof, the internal components don't take up much space inside. The full installation process is complete within 3-4 days. All MCS-installers are polite, clean and tidy.
What size system?
Sizing requirement depends on your consumption rate, roof space and your budget. Various options are available to suit different budgets such as typical 2, 3 and 4kW size systems.
How long does PV last?
Photovoltaics installed in the 1960s are still working today. Degradation is minimal consideration when choosing a system. Monocrystalline solar panels still have an 80% generation capacity after 20 years.
What about cleaning?
PV solar panels are coated with a microscopically thin layer of titanium dioxide during manufacturing. When ultraviolet light falls on the glass, the coating reacts with organic matter to break it down.
As NASA's Mars inter-planetary rovers, Spirit and Opportunity demonstrated perfectly, dirt and dust find it difficult to attach permanently.
With that said, a periodic clean, using de-ionised water, will give an extra 10% performance.
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