Solar PV

Solar Installers, based in Devon

What is solar PV and how does it work?

What is Solar PV?
Solar PV stands for Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV). It’s a method of generating electrical power by capturing sunlight and converting it into electricity using solar panels composed of semiconductor materials (typically silicon).

Solar panel electricity systems capture energy from the sun using photovoltaic cells. These cells do not need direct sunlight to work and therefore your Solar PV system can still generate electricity on a cloudy day, which can then be used to run household appliances and lighting.

Solar PV (Photovoltaic) systems are technologies that convert sunlight directly into electricity using the photovoltaic effect. These systems are a key component of renewable energy strategies around the world.

How Does It Work?
1. Sunlight Hits the Solar Panel:

Each solar panel is made up of many solar cells.
These cells are usually made from silicon, a semiconductor.

2. The Photovoltaic Effect:

When sunlight (photons) strikes a solar cell, it knocks electrons loose from their atoms in the silicon.
This movement of electrons creates a flow of electric current.

3. Electric Current is Captured:

The solar cell is designed with electric fields that force electrons to move in a certain direction, forming a direct current (DC).

4. Inverter Converts DC to AC:

Most homes and businesses use alternating current (AC).
An inverter converts the DC electricity generated by the panels into AC electricity for use.

5. Power Your Home or Feed the Grid:

The electricity can be used immediately, stored in batteries, or sent back into the power grid (if you’re connected to it).

What is available to you?
PV cells come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Our PV systems are made up of panels that can be mounted in or on your roof. Our expert team of MCS Certified designers and installers will create a system suitable for your property and needs.

Looking for a Solar PV Quote? Use our free online Solar PV quote app to get an instant online price tailored to your property.

Enquire today

The power of a PV cell is measured in kilowatts peak (kWp). That’s the rate at which it generates energy at peak performance in full direct sunlight during the summer.

What are the advantages of solar PV?

Lowering fuel bills – Sunlight is free, so once you've paid for the initial installation, your electricity costs will be reduced
Environmental Impact – Our expertly designed systems can offer significant reductions in your carbon dioxide emissions
Reliability – Our solar PV systems are fully guaranteed and offer a system life of approximately 20 years

From 1st April 2022 for a period of 5 years, VAT is zero rated on solar panels.

If solar PV is not suitable for your property we can also advise across the range of renewable heating systems and technologies available, including ground source heat pump, air source heat pump and solar thermal to find the most suitable system for your home.

FAQ’s

Is Solar PV suitable for my property?

Advances in solar PV technology mean the direction in which your property faces is no longer a constraining factor. Whilst a south facing roof is still the optimal location for solar PV placement, east or west facing buildings only generate about 15% less electricity than when facing due south. As a result, most domestic roofs are suitable for solar panel installation.

Our team of surveyors have years of experience, helping customers make the right choice in solar PV system installation. They are always happy to offer detailed advice and solutions for any structural and size restrictions.

How many solar panels will my home need?

The more solar panels you have installed, the more energy they’ll be able to generate for your home. The number of solar panels you’ll need will depend on your energy usage, the number of people in your home and the size of your property. Our team can advise on your specific requirements.

How much does Solar PV cost?

The cost of a solar panel system will vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels are needed. You will also need to consider the costs of installation, some of which can be offset by your energy savings. Our team can advise on the potential running costs and savings of your system based on your unique circumstances -please do get in touch to discuss your project in more detail.

What is a battery storage and how does it work with my Solar PV system?

Battery storage works with your solar PV system by diverting and storing the excess exported energy generated, therefore allowing you to get the most out of your solar energy both day and night. Adding battery storage to your solar PV system further increases your self consumption and reduces your reliance on the grid.

Find out more about battery storage.

What is the difference between Solar Thermal and Solar PV?

Solar PV is a renewable energy technology that uses the power of the sun to generate electricity. Solar thermal is a technology that uses the power of the sun to heat water for your home.

View some of our Installations

Expert advice on the right solution for you

Total Renewable Solutions are an MCS accredited supplier and installer of renewable energy solutions. Our expert surveyors will work with you to create a bespoke system that is right for your property and budget and will advise on the potential running costs and savings of your system based on your unique circumstances.

Fill in your enquiry and our expert team will be in touch to help