solar panels

Solar Panels

What are they?

A simple view

How do they work?

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Solar Panels

A photovoltaic module or photovoltaic panel is a packaged interconnected assembly of photovoltaic cells, also known as solar cells. The photovoltaic module, known more commonly as the solar panel, is then used as a component in a larger photovoltaic system to offer electricity for commercial and residential applications.

Because a single photovoltaic module can only produce a limited amount of power, many installations contain several modules or panels and this is known as a photovoltaic array. A photovoltaic installation typically includes an array of photovoltaic modules or panels, an inverter, batteries and interconnection wiring.

Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels

PV solar panels generate electricity from the sun's energy rather than just heating your water. You’re more likely to see these on offices or large developments than on homes.

You can use PV systems for a building with a roof or wall that faces within 90 degrees of south, as long as no other buildings or large trees overshadow it. Less energy will be generated if the roof surface is in shadow for parts of the day.

The are three basic types PV panels: mono crystalline, polycrystalline (or multicrystalline) and amorphous. All are made from silicon, but differ in the way the silicon is cut and treated to create collar cells.

To install a system you need to decide how much electricity you want to generate. After submitting details of your property, a PV installer should help you to conduct a site survey and discuss your options with you.

Pros

Only daylight is needed to create energy – not sunshine.
Can be connected to the national grid and any excess electricity sold back to an electricity company.
Can cut average household electricity bill by about 30%.
Solar energy is free, plentiful and clean.

Cons

A large roof area is needed to generate lots of energy.
Significantly more expensive to buy and install than solar water systems.
Solar panels are expensive compared to the amount of electricity they'll produce in their lifetime.
The efficiency of solar panels depends on the number of solar light hours and climate.
Initial costs are higher than conventional electric and gas-heater systems.
An unshaded, south-facing location is needed for installation.
Solar panels can be heavy, so your roof must be strong enough to take their weight, especially if the panel is to be installed on top of existing tiles.