SOLAR PV

Solar panels work by harnessing the power of sunlight and converting it into electricity through a process called photovoltaic (PV) effect. Here’s how it works:

1. Sunlight Absorption: Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, usually composed of semiconductor materials like silicon. When sunlight (photons) hits the surface of the solar panel, the cells absorb the photons.

2. Electron Excitation: The absorbed photons transfer their energy to electrons in the semiconductor material, causing them to become “excited” and move to a higher energy state.

3. Electron Flow: The movement of these excited electrons creates an electric current within the solar cell.

4. Direct Current (DC) Electricity: The electric current produced by the solar cells is in the form of direct current (DC), which is a type of electricity that flows in one direction.

5. Inverter Conversion: As most homes and businesses use alternating current (AC) electricity, the DC electricity from the solar panels needs to be converted to AC. This is done by an inverter, which converts the DC electricity into usable AC electricity for household appliances and other electrical devices.

6. Consumption: The AC electricity produced by the solar panels can be used directly to power electrical devices within the home or business. Any excess electricity not used at the moment can be sent back to the grid if the system is grid-connected, allowing for credits or payments under certain feed-in tariffs or net metering schemes.

Overall, solar panels provide a clean and renewable energy source, generating electricity from sunlight without emitting greenhouse gases or contributing to air pollution. They play a crucial role in promoting sustainable energy practices and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

The cost of a solar PV (Photovoltaic) system can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the system, the type and quality of solar panels used, installation complexity, location, and any additional features or components. 

For residential installations, a typical solar PV system in the United Kingdom may cost anywhere from £4,000 to £14,000 or more, depending on the factors mentioned above. On average, the cost per kilowatt (kW) of installed solar capacity ranges from £1,500 to £2,500.

It’s important to note that the solar PV system’s cost should be considered as a long-term investment, as it can help save money on electricity bills over time, provide energy independence, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

There are government incentives for solar installations in the UK. Some of the key incentives include:

1. Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): The Smart Export Guarantee is a program that requires larger electricity suppliers in the UK to offer payments to small-scale renewable energy generators, including solar panel owners, for the surplus electricity they export back to the grid. The rates and terms of the SEG vary among energy suppliers.

2. Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs): Under the Enhanced Capital Allowances scheme, businesses investing in certain energy-efficient technologies, including solar PV systems, may be eligible to claim 100% of the investment as a first-year allowance, providing tax relief.

It’s important to note that government incentives and policies can change over time, and new schemes or modifications to existing programs may be introduced. To get the most up-to-date and accurate information on government incentives for solar installations in the UK, it’s recommended to consult official government websites.

The lifespan of solar panels can vary depending on the type of panel, the quality of manufacturing, and the conditions in which they are installed and operated. On average, most solar panels are designed to last for around 25 to 30 years or more. However, with proper maintenance and care, some panels can continue to produce electricity even beyond their expected lifespan.

Factors that can influence the longevity of solar panels include:

1. Quality of Materials: Higher-quality solar panels, often with more durable materials, tend to have a longer lifespan.

2. Manufacturing Standards: Panels manufactured by reputable companies that adhere to strict quality standards are more likely to have a longer life.

3. Installation: Proper installation by certified professionals like Wing Energy ensures the panels are securely mounted and protected from environmental factors.

4. Operating Conditions: Solar panels in regions with milder climates and less extreme weather conditions tend to last longer.

5. Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of solar panels.

It’s worth noting that while solar panels may gradually experience a decrease in efficiency over time, they can still continue to produce electricity at a reduced rate even after their expected lifespan.

To maximize solar energy production and get the most out of your solar PV system, consider implementing the following strategies:

1. Optimal Panel Placement: Wing Energy Ensure your solar panels are installed in a location that receives maximum sunlight exposure throughout the day. Orienting the panels to face south (in the Northern Hemisphere) and at an optimal tilt angle for your latitude can optimize energy capture.

2. Regular Maintenance: Keep your solar panels clean and free from debris, dust, and shading to maximize their efficiency. Regularly inspect the panels for any issues and address them promptly.

3. Battery Storage: Consider adding energy storage solutions like solar batteries (e.g., Tesla Powerwall) to store excess energy generated during sunny periods for use during cloudy days or at night, increasing self-consumption.

4. Time of Use: Time your energy-intensive activities, such as running major appliances, during sunny hours when the solar panels are producing the most electricity.

5. Energy-Efficient Appliances: Invest in energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to reduce overall energy consumption.

6. Smart Home Technology: Utilize smart home technology to automate energy usage, enabling better control and optimization of energy consumption.

7. Energy Monitoring: Use monitoring systems to track energy production and consumption, allowing you to identify trends and make informed adjustments.

8. Avoid Shade: Ensure that the solar panels are not shaded by nearby structures or vegetation, as shade can significantly reduce energy production.

9. Energy Audit: Conduct an energy audit to identify any energy inefficiencies in your home and address them to optimize energy use.

By implementing these strategies and making thoughtful decisions about your solar PV system and energy usage, you can maximize solar energy production and enjoy greater savings and environmental benefits.

Yes, solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, although their energy production may be reduced compared to bright, sunny days. Solar panels do not rely on direct sunlight alone; they can generate electricity from diffused or indirect sunlight as well.

During cloudy weather, the amount of sunlight reaching the solar panels is lower, which leads to a decrease in electricity production. However, modern solar panels are designed to be efficient in capturing and converting sunlight into electricity even under diffused light conditions.

While solar panels will produce less electricity on cloudy days, they can still contribute to powering your home or business. Additionally, if you have a solar battery storage system (e.g., Tesla Powerwall), you can store excess electricity generated during sunny periods and use it during cloudy days or at night, further optimizing your solar energy usage.

It’s worth noting that even in regions with frequent cloud cover, solar energy can still be a viable and beneficial renewable energy source. Solar panels continue to provide a clean and sustainable energy solution, helping to reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuel-based power generation.

Choosing the right solar PV system involves considering several important factors to ensure that it meets your energy needs and budget. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:

1. Assess Energy Needs: Begin by evaluating your current electricity consumption. Review your past electricity bills to understand your average daily and monthly energy usage. This information will help determine the size of the solar PV system you need.

2. Consider Roof Space and Orientation: Assess the available roof space and its orientation (ideally facing south in the Northern Hemisphere) to determine how many solar panels can be installed and their optimal placement for maximum sunlight exposure.

3. Quality and Warranty: Choose high-quality solar panels by Wing Energy that offer warranties to ensure the longevity and performance of your system.

4. Consider Energy Storage: If you want to store excess energy for later use, explore the option of adding a solar battery storage system (e.g., Tesla Powerwall) to your PV setup.

5. Wing Energy-Choose a Certified Installer: Wing Energy is a reputable and certified solar installer with experience in installing solar PV systems. We provide valuable advice and ensure a proper installation.

6. Environmental Impact: Assess the environmental benefits of transitioning to solar energy and reducing your carbon footprint.

7. Future Expansion: Consider whether you may want to expand your solar PV system in the future to accommodate increased energy needs.

By carefully considering these factors and working with a knowledgeable solar installer like Wing Energy, you can select the right solar PV system that best suits your energy requirements and provides a strong return on investment over its lifetime.

The payback period for solar panels in the UK can vary based on several factors, including the cost of the solar PV system, the amount of electricity it generates, the local energy prices, and any available government incentives or subsidies. On average, the payback period for a residential solar PV system in the UK is typically between 8 to 12 years.

As solar panel prices have decreased over the years and energy costs continue to rise, the payback period for solar installations has become more attractive. Additionally, the potential to earn money smart export tariffs, which allow homeowners to sell excess electricity back to the grid, can shorten the payback period.

It’s important to consider the long-term benefits of solar panels beyond the payback period, such as reduced energy bills, increased home value, and environmental benefits. Additionally, the payback period can vary depending on the size of the solar PV system and individual energy consumption patterns.

In most standard grid-tied solar PV systems, the answer is no.

During a blackout or power outage, grid-tied solar systems are designed to automatically shut down for safety reasons. This is to prevent electricity from being sent back into the grid while utility workers are repairing the power lines, which could pose a safety hazard to them.

However, there is a solution if you want to have backup power during a blackout. You can install a solar PV system with battery storage, such as the Tesla Powerwall. With a battery system, excess solar energy generated during the day can be stored in the batteries to be used later during periods of low sunlight or during a blackout.

During a power outage, the battery system can provide electricity to power essential appliances and lights in your home, giving you some level of energy independence and backup power. It’s essential to size the battery system appropriately to meet your backup power needs and to ensure it can support the critical loads during an outage.

If you’re interested in having backup power during power outages, contact Wing Energy and we will design a system that suits your needs and ensures reliable backup power.

Yes, you can sell excess solar energy back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme. The SEG is a government-backed initiative that allows homeowners and businesses with solar PV systems to receive payments for the surplus electricity they export to the grid.

Under the SEG scheme, electricity suppliers are required to offer payments to small-scale renewable energy generators, such as solar panel owners, for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of surplus electricity they export to the grid. The payment rates and terms can vary between different electricity suppliers.

The SEG scheme provides an opportunity for solar panel owners to earn money by selling their excess solar energy, making solar PV installations more financially beneficial. It’s important to shop around and compare the export tariff rates offered by different electricity suppliers to ensure you get the best deal for the surplus electricity you generate.

The SEG scheme replaced the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme, which ended in April 2019. Unlike the FiT, the SEG does not provide a guaranteed fixed rate for exported electricity, but it allows solar PV owners to negotiate export payment terms with their chosen electricity supplier.

You can store excess solar energy for later use by using a solar battery storage system like Tesla powerwall. Solar battery storage allows you to capture and store the surplus electricity generated by your solar panels during sunny periods. This stored energy can then be used when your solar panels are not producing enough power, such as during the nighttime or on cloudy days. Here’s how it works:

1. Capture Excess Solar Energy: During times when your solar panels produce more electricity than your home consumes, the excess energy is directed to the solar battery system instead of being exported to the grid.

2. Store Energy in Batteries: The solar battery system stores the excess electricity in chemical batteries, converting it into a form that can be stored and used later.

3. Use Stored Energy: When your solar panels are not generating enough power, such as during the evening or when the weather is overcast, you can draw on the stored energy from the batteries to power your home.