How do solar panels work?

With the ever-rising costs of energy from traditional sources and growing environmental concerns there is increasing investment in sustainable energy sources. As a result, solar panels have become extremely popular in recent years with more and more homes and businesses adopting them to meet their energy needs.

How solar panels work

Solar panels convert energy from the sun’s light into electricity that can be used in homes and businesses across the UK. This energy is created when sunlight falls on components called photovoltaic (PV) cells inside each panel which convert it to DC electricity. From there, a solar inverter converts it to AC electricity which is the electricity most commonly used by households. This electricity is supplied directly into your home via your electrical system as normal. Once you have enough to meet your home’s power needs, then the excess can actually be sold back to the national grid. This means that solar panels can not only save you money but make you money as well.

When do solar panels work?

It goes without saying that solar panels work at their best when it is sunny. However, there are misconceptions that they do not work when it is cloudy or during the winter. The reality is that if there is enough light to see by then there is enough light for your solar panels to begin producing energy. Granted, they will produce more when it is sunny, but they will continue to function. It is even possible for solar panels to become less efficient when it is extremely sunny. Due to its milder climate and reliable hours of sunlight year-round, the UK is actually uniquely well-suited to solar panels.

What are the advantages of solar panels?

Solar panels are an effective renewable energy solution perfect for the modern world. With growing accessibility and availability and incredible advances in technology, the time has never been better to get solar panels for your home or business.

• Cost effective
  Using your own solar panels ensures that you are no longer totally reliant on large energy companies for power. This means you won’t be subject to sudden price increases allowing you to plan your finances more effectively. What’s more, the prices for solar panels and installation are continually dropping so it’s never been cheaper to get hold of them. You can even see if you qualify for a government grant for energy saving home improvements. Once your panels are installed, you may even be able to make money selling your excess solar generated power back to the grid.
• Clean and renewable
  Solar not only brings immediate practical benefits to your property but is also a clean source of energy that reduces your carbon footprint. By using solar power for your electricity supply you can reduce your dependence on fossil fuels, doing your bit to protect the environment. Furthermore, when you solar panels do eventually reach the end of their lifespan, many of the materials and components in solar panels can be recycled and repurposed, ensuring that the environment continues to be protected even after they’re no longer in use.
• Long lifespan
  It is currently estimated that solar panels will have a useful lifespan of 25-30 years. This is a great return on investment to gain power independence and produce clean electricity. Solar panels are also famous for being low maintenance so there won’t be constant additional costs to pay once they’re installed. They’re such a long-lasting and worthy investment, that they can even boost the property value of your home if you ever need to move.

Solar panels are an environmentally and wallet friendly energy solution. If you’d like to find out more if solar panels are right for your home then get in touch with Coutts Electrical Contractors. We specialise in solar panel installation in Kent, so you can talk over your electrical needs with local experts by calling 0800 112 5050 or emailing office@couttselectrical.co.uk.