How do solar PV panels work?

A solar PV panel consists of many cells made from layers of semi-conducting material, most commonly silicon. When light shines on this material, a flow of electricity is created. Polycrystalline panels and Monocrystalline panels are available with monocrystalline panels being more popular because of their sleek appearance.

The cells don’t need direct sunlight to work and can even work on cloudy days. However, the stronger the sunshine, the more electricity generated.

 

Solar PV systems are made up of several panels linked together in either series or parallel to form a “string”. Typical systems contain around 10 panels and generate direct current (DC) electricity, because the electricity used for household appliances is alternating current (AC), an inverter is installed along with the system to convert DC electricity to AC. This electricity is then used in your home

Space is a key consideration. The average domestic system size is around 3.68kWp and this will typically take up around 17m2 roof or ground mounted area.

An unshaded, South facing roof is ideal for maximum electrical output. East or West facing roofs could still be installed, North facing roofs are not recommended. A system facing East or West will yield around 15-20% less energy than one facing directly South.

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Shaded roofs

Sometimes shading is unavoidable. Solar PV systems are available that can minimise the impact of shading using ‘optimisers’. If you don’t have shading, the use of optimisers is not necessary or beneficial, other than the increased monitoring opportunities they offer – they won’t generate more energy. Any nearby buildings, trees or chimneys could shade your roof and have a negative impact on the performance of your system.

 

Solar PV panels are considered ‘permitted developments’ and often don’t require planning permission. However, it’s best to check with your local planning office for guidance. If you live in a listed building, conservation area or national park, additional restrictions may apply.

If you’re planning to install a solar PV system in your home, you must register it with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO). The DNO is the company responsible for bringing electricity to your home. Horisun will register your installation on your behalf.

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How quickly will I make my money back?

The first question everyone would like to know and one of the trickier ones to answer.

The average payback time for an installation is approx 8 years. However this can vary greatly depending on what your current unit rate of electricity from the national grid costs, how many panels you have, which direction your roof faces, the angle of your roof, shading issues, how much space you have, your budget and even how much the sun shines. We produce an estimated payback breakdown that is tailored to your property with each of our formal quotations, so contact us to find out more.

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Guarantee

A Horisun Solar PV installation comes with 2 years workmanship guarantee.

Any panels we install are required to have an 80% efficiency guarantee for 20 years. All of our inverters carry a 5 year minimum warranty, which should be extendable with the manufacturer.

Horisun Renewable Energy are MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) & Trustmark approved installers who are also members of RECC (the Renewable Energy Consumer Code). Any deposits we take are held by IWA (Independent Warranty Association) so you can rest assured your renewable energy installation is in the safest of hands.