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Solar Energy
There are two types of systems.
1. Solar Thermal – which produces heat for hot water and central heating.
2. Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) – which produces electricity. This site deals with PV Solar.
Solar PV the benefits.
By converting the sun’s natural rays into electricity, homeowners can benefit by producing clean free electricity by having solar panels fitted on the roof of their homes.
The UK Government is keen to promote the uptake of clean renewable energy which includes Solar Photovoltaic, also referred to as Solar PV or PV Solar. Homeowners benefit by been paid a special rate for each kW of electricity they generate. If you generate more electricity than you actually use, then the excess is exported back to the national grid at a lower rate. You benefit by not only receiving an income but also through saving on your electric bills.
Income 1. The generation tariff. You get paid a set rate by the energy supplier for every kWh of electricity your panels produce. This is called the feed in tariff. This rate will change each year and once you join that is set for 25 years and is also indexed linked. Each year, new homeowners joining the solar green revolution, the feed in tariff rate you get paid is reduced. In addition to reducing your Electricity Bills, a 16 panel 4kW system could earn you in excess of £750 per year.
Income 2. If your household generates more electricity than you need this is fed back into the grid for which you get paid. Savings The electricity that you generate, will be used to run your appliances which means you wont have to buy as much from your energy supplier.
What is Solar PV – Tech speak Photons in sunlight hit the solar panel and are absorbed by semiconducting materials, such as silicon. Electrons (negatively charged) are knocked loose from their atoms, allowing them to flow through the material to produce electricity. Due to the special composition of solar cells, the electrons are only allowed to move in a single direction. An array of solar cells converts solar energy into a usable amount of direct current (DC) electricity.
What is Solar PV – For Dummies Rays from the sun hit special panels on the roof which turns it into usable domestic electricity. To get the most benefit from solar energy your roof needs to be facing South, or South West, or South East. It is possible to fit PV solar to a roof space that does not conform to the optimal efficiency requirements, but the efficiency will be greatly reduced. A north facing roof would not be acceptable and would not benefit from the feed in tarif. The optimum angle of the roof elevation should be between 30- 35% and should not be overshadowed by trees or buildings. PV Solar set up – How it all works.
1. The recommended amount of panels are fitted to the roof.
2. These are connected to an Inverter, which turns DC power generated by the panels into AC power suitable for domestic use.
3.The inverter is then connected into the domestic consumer unit. A survey needs to be carried out to assess the property for suitability for solar. This is free and with no obligation. A quotation will then be provided for you to consider. As an independent agency we provide you with the facts and independently offer you the best solution for your property – free of charge. If you decide to proceed then your appointed contractor would normally require a deposit. You will soon begin to benefit from cheap electricity and well as income for many years to come.
You can also save money by ensuring that your home is fully insulated.
For more information on home insulation grants go to www.energygrantsdirect.co.uk.
If you are competent at diy you may wish to carry out loft insulation yourself and save money. Get tips and tricks with a diy loft insulation guide.