The sun is the source of solar energy. Solar panels convert sunlight, which is made up of energy particles known as “photons,” into electricity, which can control the electricity in your home.
Solar panels can be used for a wide range of applications, including remote power systems for cabins, communication devices, remote sensing, and electricity production by residential and business solar electric systems. However, how do you know if solar panels are suitable for your house? In this blog, we will go over everything you need to know.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
Our sun is an infinite power source, and we can efficiently harness this renewable energy source by using a device known as a photovoltaic cell.
Solar panels are made of many photovoltaic cells, which convert the sun’s solar energy into electricity. A photovoltaic cell is a thin semiconducting sandwich constructed of multiple layers of highly purified silicon. Photovoltaic cells allow charged particles on the edge of a solar panel to be liberated by the sun’s rays. As they travel along a predetermined pathway on the solar panel, these free electrons generate a direct current (DC) of electricity.
The direct current (DC) electricity is stored in the battery or transformed into alternating current (AC) through an inverter to power common electronic appliances such as computers, lighting, and heating.
There are a few tests that can be performed to determine whether your home is suitable for solar panels:
Orientation
To generate the most electricity, your roof should face true south, but installing solar panels on east and west-facing roofs is still worthwhile because the output loss is minor (around 15 per cent). However, solar panels may not be the best option if your house has a north-facing roof or is heavily shaded by the sun.
Angle/Pitch
The best angle/ slope for maximum yield of your solar energy system is between 30 – 40 degrees, depending on your location in the UK about the sun’s path throughout the day.
Size
The chosen roof/ground area should be large enough to accommodate the installation of solar PV panels. The size of your solar array (multiple solar panels installed in one installation) will be determined by your electricity consumption, so it’s a good idea to start by looking at your utility bills.
A current 250-Watt (W) solar panel measures approximately 1.75m x 0.9m x 50mm and weighs between 15 and 30 kilogrammes. Because a typical 25-inch TV requires approximately 150W, you’ll need several solar panels to work together to reduce your electricity bills.
Planning Permission
While most solar PV systems do not require planning permission, you should still check with your community to ensure that the area is not designated as a heritage site, conservation area, listed building, or wildlife protected area.
Loft Space Is Available.
There should be enough space in your attic for the alternator, which is nearly the size of a microwave.
Roof Material
Due to the inherent hazards of Asbestos in health and safety issues, we recommend that the proposed roof be removed with non-asbestos roof materials before installing a solar PV system.
Electricity Supply
The size of your incoming lines into your estate can influence the size of the installation you can afford.
Roof Construction
There are solutions for all roofs, including corrugated roofs, slate or tiled roofs, and sealed roofs that do not require penetration.
The Amount of Sunlight
Solar panels always work best in areas that receive a lot of direct sunlight. However, the amount of sunlight your home has does not imply that you require the same amount of sunlight every day. Remember that while northern areas may have shorter days and less sun in the winter, they can make up for it with long summer days when the panels are used even more.
Heat
Solar panels do not require hot weather to operate. However, heat can reduce their efficiency. As a result, panels installed in cold climates will perform well.
Fog And Rain
Because solar panels are well-sealed, rain and fog will not harm them unless one of the panels is cracked. Rain can also aid in the removal of dirt from the panels.
Snow
Solar panels may not even be suitable if you live in a snowy area. Snowfall that covers the panels will block the sunlight, causing the panels to fail throughout the winter.
Solar Panel Cost
Installing a solar system on your home is a great way to boost energy, improve energy efficiency, and lower utility bills. However, the average cost of installing solar panels ranges between £2,500 and £9,000, based on the job’s complexity.
So, what factors influence the price?
The cost of installing solar panels onto your home is determined by various factors, such as the type of solar panel installed, the number of solar panels being installed, the overall length of the solar panels, and your location within the UK.
Solar panels are also available in various system sizes ranging from 1kW to 5kW. These dimensions determine the amount of energy the solar panels provide to the home. The higher the wattage you select, the higher the cost.
A 1kW monocrystalline solar panel, for example, will cost approximately £2,000 – £3,500 on average, whereas a 5kW monocrystalline solar panel system will cost approximately £7,500 – £9,000.
Types of Solar Panels
There are two different types of solar panels that can be installed in your home. There are two types: monocrystalline and polycrystalline.
Monocrystalline solar panels are a popular choice and are thought to be the superior option of the two. This is since they are more durable and efficient. On the other hand, monocrystalline panels are more expensive due to the higher-grade raw materials and more involved manufacturing processes. However, they’re an excellent choice for the best visual appeal or to maximise energy production in a small space.
Polycrystalline rooftop solar panels are also the most common type. Instead of a single crystal, these are made of multiple pieces of silicon that are melted down and shaped into square wafers. The panels are less expensive because the process is simplified. They have a blue speckled appearance. They are, however, less efficient.
Cover photo by Jeremy Bezanger on Unsplash
