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How does it work?
Photovoltaic (PV) Systems use Cells, arranged in modules, to convert solar radiation into electricity. Light shines on the cells creating an electric field across the layers. This causes electrons to flow, creating electricity. On its own each cell only creates a small amount of electricity, but connected together to form solar panels, which are then connected to form a solar PV system, they generate useful amounts.
Solar panels can be ground mounted, fixed to a pitch roof, or mounted on a flat roof. The installation of a Solar PV system is quick and trouble free, with minimal disruption to your home or business premises.
Solar panels produce a type of electricity known as ‘direct current’ (DC). To convert the electricity into an alternating current (AC – or mains equivalent) which can be used to power our lights or appliances, an Inverter is used. The inverter constantly monitors the electricity imported from the national grid, and then modifies the DC produced by the solar panels to match the usable electricity. You can look to our diagram for a visual representation.
A single AC wire will run directly to your consumer unit (fuse box) onto a single MCB (miniature circuit breaker). The location of the inverter and wire runs will be determined during the site survey of your property, but they can usually be hidden away in a loft space, utility or garage.