Solar PV
Overview
Solar panels are the collection of solar or photovoltaic cells which, convert solar energy i.e. sunlight into electrical energy or electricity. The process of extraction of electricity directly from sunlight is known as photovoltaic process. A photovoltaic cell or a self-generating barrier laver cell is also a PV detector which transforms radiant flux straight into electrical current. Moreover, electricity cannot be generated by heat through PV cells as sunlight is a must requirement for that.
The idea of generating electricity from sunlight has gained popularity in recent years, but is actually dates back to over a century. Henri Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect, which allows for the direct conversion of sunlight into electricity. This century-old concept is the foundation of all modern solar technology.
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There are various types of solar panels available, each suited to different needs. When choosing a solar panel, consider factors such as the installation location, whether it's for commercial or residential use, and your budget. At Greenio, our experts are here to guide you in selecting the best solar panels for your needs and show you how to maximise their benefits.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
Step 1- Solar panels absorb energy from the sun and convert it into DC electricity.
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Step 2- DC electricity from your solar panels is converted to AC electricity by inverter technology (AC electricity is used by most home appliances).
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Step 3- Electricity flows through your home or business, powering electronic appliances and devices
Step 4- Any extra electricity produced by the solar panels is fed back to the electric grid or into your battery if you have one installed.
What is a solar battery and should I get one?
Solar panels often exceed the amount of energy that can be used around the home at any one time. This excess energy is sent back to the electricity grid, which means you're missing out on potential savings. By adding a solar battery as part of your solar PV system, you maximise the potential of the energy generated by the panels.
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A solar battery is an addition to your solar power system that stores the excess electricity generated by your solar panels. This stored energy can be used to power your home during times when your panels aren't producing enough electricity, such as at night, on cloudy days, or during power outages.
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The primary purpose of a solar battery is to help you maximise the use of the solar energy you generate. Without battery storage, any surplus electricity is sent to the grid, meaning you're generating power for others rather than fully benefitting from the electricity your panels produce.
Battery & Inverter Installed by Greenio in 2022
Benefits of Getting Solar PV
Combat ever increasing energy prices
By generating your own power through solar panels, you can reduce your reliance on the grid and reduce your annual electricity bill. Plus, if you generate more power than you use, you can arrange to earn money by selling it back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
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Lowers your carbon footprint
Using solar power as a clean energy source to sustainably power your home contributes o the UK's carbon reduction goals - an essential step in the fight against climate change. By lowering your carbon footprint, you're also helping to protect wildlife habitats and support communities and economies that are at risk from a warming climate.
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A renewable source of energy
In addition to combating climate change, renewable energy sources like solar power help reduce air pollution, one of the major challenged we face worldwide.
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Easy to install
Solar panels can be quickly installed on your roof, often taking just a day to set up your home for solar energy. Keep in mind that the tilt and direction of your roof will affect the energy output of your panels. Greenio offers a variety of systems to help you optimise your solar setup to suit your specific needs.
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A Smart Investment
Solar PV systems are excellent for saving money, often paying for themselves over time through the savings on your energy bills. This makes solar energy a smart investment that can ultimately cost you nothing in the long run.
FAQs
Do solar panels still work on cloudy days?
Absolutely! It's the radiation from the sun, not just temperature, heat, or direct sunlight, that allows solar PV panels to generate electricity. While panels in hot, sunny regions can capture more energy, they ca also become too hot and lose efficiency. So don't be misled into thinking they won't perform well in the UK; they don't require constant direct sunlight and can still produce electricity on cloudy days.
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Could you really charge an electric car for free using solar energy?
If you have an electric car, or are considering one, being able to charge it for free, reducing your fuel costs and
impact on the planet, is possibly the biggest benefit on offer. Powering your home and electric car with
solar energy will require a larger solar PV system, so it's worth mentioning this to us when vou enquire.
How long do solar panels last? This varies depending on manufacturer but most come with a 15-25 year manufacturers warrant and have a life-expectancy well in excess of 25 years.
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How long does installation take?
It varies, a standard 10 panel home system, on average, takes between 1-3 days where as commercial 30-50 panel installation would take around 10-12 days. Each individual installation time can vary due to the number of panels and the complexity of the project. Greenio can provide you with an estimated installation time for everything from small domestic projects to large commercial installations.
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Do I need planning permission?
In most cases installing solar panels on our roof does not require planning permission as they are considered 'permitted development' under planning law. There are, however, some rules and exceptions that must be observed. For example, it is important to consult you local council's planning department for advice if our house is in an area of outstanding natural beauty or is a listed building. We are happy to advise and guide you in this area. If you live in a conservation area and are considering solar, you will need to consider a few things when it comes to whether or not you will need planning permission. You'll need to consider whether the suggested roof space for the panels is road-facing. If the area is not visible from the road, you won't need planning permission, as it falls under permitted development. If the area is road-facing, Greenio is happy to assist you in obtaining the necessary planning permission from your council as part of our standard service.
Can I go totally Off-Grid?
While it is theoretically possible to go completely off-grid, Greenio does not recommend it as a practical solution. In some cases, this approach can leave you without power, so having a backup power source is essential. Achieving total off-grid status would also require significant infrastructure changes. If you're seriously considering this option, it's important to conduct thorough research to determine whether it fits within your budget.
Can I add a battery to my existing solar PV system?
Yes - Solar panels often generate more power than you use, so Greenio sometimes recommend adding a battery to your system to store any surplus energy. We assess each situation individually and can advise you on whether a battery would be a beneficial addition. A battery allows you to sore excess power generated by your panels, enabling you to use it when the panels aren't producing electricity, such as, at night.
How do I know what size battery I need?
The truth is, not everyone needs a battery. Greenio can advise you if you could benefit from adding a battery to your system and find the perfect battery for you to get the most out of your solar system. However, below are a few points to help;
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If you want to power more of your property at once, you will need a solar battery with a high power rating.
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If you want to run your property on solar battery power for an extended period, you'll need a battery with a higher usable capacity.
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To maximise the value of every kilowatt-hour of electricity stored in your battery, you will nee one with a higher roundtrip efficiency.
Can Greenio put solar PV on my camper van or motorhome?
Of course, solar panels are an excellent way to power your motorhome's appliances and entertainment systems including tv’s, radios and game consoles.
If you are interested in this service, feel free to reach out for a free quote!
Why Greenio?
Our Expertise
Greenio's friendly experts are always on hand to answer your questions and help you find the right Solar PV solution for your needs.
The Best Engineers
Greenio Engineers are fully qualified and bring years of experience and expertise to the table. As a forward thinking, professional and friendly company, we ensure only the best electricians join our team.
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One-Stop-Shop
We manage every step of the process from the initial quote, to the installation, so you only need one number for updates or questions.
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Customer Service
Our customer service is unmatched by design and we are proud to have received over 70 five-star reviews on google from our satisfied customers.
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Warranty
All equipment installed by Greenio comes with the manufacturers warranty, and every Solar PV installation includes a standard 24 month workmanship guarantee.
Interested in a free quote?
Fill in our Solar PV Enquiry Form or Call us on 0800 810 0565
