Photovoltaic solar panels, otherwise known as photovoltaic cells, are attached to the rooftops of properties to help reduce energy bills by generating electricity from the sun’s natural rays.
Semiconducting material such as silicon will be used to manufacture the photovoltaic solar panels, so when sunlight strikes the system it’ll create an electrical field. Effectively, the stronger the sunshine the more electricity that’ll be produced.
Photovoltaic solar panels can be manufactured in a number of shapes and sizes and you can even purchase transparent cells for use on greenhouses and conservatories.
Solar panel strength is measured in kilowatt peak (kWp) and shows the amount of electricity that’d be generated in full sunshine.
What are the benefits of solar panels?
- With photovoltaic solar panels you can earn a guaranteed income with a Government incentive known as the feed-in tariff. This pays out 15.44p/kWh for the energy you generate, earning you close to £600 annually.
- Another great benefit to solar panels is the amount you’ll save on bills, both monthly and annually. PV panels can save you over £100 a year on bills and this amount will only increase as National Grid gas and electricity prices increase.
- Installing PV cells will increase the value of your home, as the energy saving bonus will be a welcome attraction for potential buyers.
- Installing photovoltaic solar panels on your property will instantly cut your carbon footprint on the world. It is reported that during its lifetime, PV cells will cut the average household’s carbon dioxide emissions by some 25 tonnes.
Is solar electricity suitable for my home?
For solar panels to perform to an optimal rate, they should be installed on south or southwest facing rooftops.
However, photovoltaic solar panels are often installed onto other facing roofs too and still reduce domestic and commercial energy bills. What’s more important than this is ensuring the panels won’t be cast into shadow at certain times of the day by trees or other buildings.
You’ll need to make sure your roof tiles are strong enough to support the project too. Solar panels are not light, and tiles must be able to take their weight, especially if built on existing tiling.
Planning permission is generally not an issue with solar panels as it’s not needed, providing the equipment is below a certain size. However, it’s always best to double check with a local planning officer, especially if the building is listed or in a conservation area.
Planning permission is more likely to cause a problem if you live in a conservation area or listed building.
Facts & Figures You’ll Love To Share
- [tweetable alt=””]Solar panels are now priced at a record low, providing an excellent return on investment for every buyer.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]The feed-in tariff scheme will help homeowners earn over £500 annually with solar panels.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]Solar panels will help to reduce your yearly electricity bills by over £100, providing over two decades of savings.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]The generous export tariff ensures no electricity is wasted as it’s sold to the National Grid for a set price.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]As gas and electricity prices continue to increase year-on-year, solar panels offer a way to guarantee your energy future.[/tweetable]