What are Photovoltaic (PV) Panels?
Photovoltaic panels convert sunlight directly into electricity that can be used to run appliances and lights. Photovoltaic cells generate energy even when it is overcast and cloudy as they absorb scattered light.

How are PV panels fitted?
Photovoltaic panels can be mounted on a roof or ground mounted. Ideally the roof will be south facing, or near to at an angle of 30 degrees with the horizontal for optimum performance. The panels produce DC electricity, so a small inverter will be fitted inside the house, to change the DC into AC (used in all normal homes and the Grid). Installation is clean, with minimal disruption and no extra space needed indoors.

How many are needed?
Any number of PV panels can be connected based on available space, to provide as much electricity output as required. A basic 2kWp solar panel installation will generate around 1500 kWh per year.

Which roof should they go on?

The optimum orientation for solar photovoltaic panels is due south at a 30 degree latitude tilt in the UK. Systems facing East of West will lose efficiency but are still viable.  Systems such as solar trackers maximise exposure to the sun by following its path.  This will increase efficiency by 20% during the winter and up to 50% during summer over static systems.

Will it supply all my electricity?
The average household consumption is 3300 kWh per year. The 2kWp system would supply nearly 50% of annual consumption. A 4 kWp system could provide all electricity needs depending on consumption for the average household.

What size system do I need?
This depends on your budget, available roof space (unless ground mounted) and energy output required.

What is a Grid Connected System?
Photovoltaic panels can be connected to the Grid through the local electricity supplier. Surplus electricity can be sold back to the supplier.
 
What are Stand Alone Systems?
In remote areas with no grid-connection, electricity produced can be stored in a battery bank.

What Are Grid Support Systems?
This mixes battery and the Grid, with any excess solar electricity produced after the battery is fully charged, is then sold back to the Grid.

What Maintenance and installation is required?
As there are no moving parts in the PV panels, there is no noise or need for maintenance other than an occasional clean as required. Solar panels come with a warranty of over 20 years. During installation of roof systems, scaffolding is required. Installations usually take three days.

How much do they cost?
Installation costs are around £4,500 per kW installed, without taking into account grants or VAT. See our Grants page for more information. The price will vary depending on the size of individual installations. Please fill in the enquiries form for a quote.

Is Planning Permission Required?
Most domestic properties in England and Scotland do not require planning permission before installation of photovoltaic solar panels. Those in Conservation Areas, listed buildings and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or World Heritage Areas must consult local Planning Departents.  Wales are reviewing planning permission requirements, some areas do not require permission, contact your local planning department. Non residential buildings still require planning consent.

How does a photovoltaic cell actually work?
Solar PV systems consist of modular panels made of silicon, which react directly to sunlight by generating electric current. An inverter changes the DC (direct current) generated by the panels into AC (alternating current).

How long does the installation process take?
For an average domestic system, the installation process rarely takes more than a few days, with minimal disruption. Scaffolding is required for work on the roof.  For larger commercial PV installations, we can work within required deadlines as necessary.

Can I really sell back to the National Grid?
Yes. The April 2010 Feed-in Tariff will pay a premium on every unit of electricity generated by pv panels with an additional bonus for every unit of electricity exported back to the National Grid. This Tariff will be administered by Ofgem. Electricity suppliers will be responsible for paying the reward to customers.

What is the Feed-in Tariff?
The Government announced the finalised feed in tariff on 1 February 2010 applicable for all installations from July 2009.  The tariff begins in April 2010. For every unit a photovoltaic system generates up to 4kWp, the Government will pay 41.3p (36.1p for a new building).  For systems up to 10kWp the tariff is 36.1p and up to 100kW the tariff is 31.4p and 29.3p up to 5MW.  Domestic installations may be eligible for LCBP grants up to 31 March 2010. 

Is TAX Payable on any income?
HMRC announced in December 2009 that tax will not be payable on income from the feed-in tariff for domestic PV installations.

Do PV Panels Work In The UK?
Generally temperatures above room temperature reduce the efficiency of pv solar panels, making the UK a good climate for photovoltaic technology.  The panels require ambient light rather than direct sunlight to generate electricity so they work even on overcast days.