What is SOLAR PV?
In order to harness solar energy, you will need solar PV cells. These cells can be found within what we know as ‘solar panels’, fitted to the roof of a property in direct sunlight.
These solar PV cells work by collecting light energy from the sun. Once sunlight hits the solar PV cells, it is converted into DC electricity.
This DC electricity is then passed from the solar PV cells into an inverter (also known as a solar generator), where the electricity is converted to AC. This is the type of electricity that homes and commercial properties use when the electrical current is fed to the property through a meter.
Once your electricity meter is turned on, your property will automatically use the solar energy to power plug sockets, lighting and electric boilers.

Do solar panels work in cloudy climates?
Yes! Even in the UK where we’re victim to large patches of cloud, solar energy can still be harnessed. That’s because light energy – not heat energy – is harnessed by solar panels from the sun. Light is still visible when clouds are present, which is why it’s possible to install solar panels on properties in colder, cloudier climates.

What happens if I generate too much solar energy?
Once solar panels are installed on your property, you may find that you’re generating more AC electricity than what you need. In this case, you can opt to feed excess electricity into the National Grid for other properties to use – and be paid for your contribution! - Or you can store this excess electricity into a “Battery Pack” fitted to your home that can be used when the sun goes down to power your electricity demands and even charge up your electric car.

At the moment “Battery Packs” are still relatively expensive but it is expected there will be ECO funding for installing these in the near future.
Why should I consider solar energy?
An increasing number of property owners are opting to harness their electricity from natural sources, such as solar, as opposed to non-renewable sources like coal and oil.

Renewable energy source
The beauty of solar energy is that because it’s renewable, there’s no chance of it running out. The sun will always shine and even on cloudy days, it’s still possible to harness the sun’s light energy to make electricity!

Eco-friendly
Unlike non-renewable energy sources, the way in which solar panels work mean that they don’t oppose any threat to the environment. There aren’t any toxic materials being emitted throughout the electricity generation process, making them much more environmentally-friendly