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Solar Panels

How do Solar Panels work?

Imagine cutting your energy bills by up to 80% just by soaking up the sun (while downsizing your carbon footprint!) 
 
Solar panels make this possible by turning the power of sunlight to generate renewable electricity.  

We’ve got over 12 years of expertise in Solar and battery installation, so we’re proud to be the North West’s leading Solar experts!  

So… what exactly are solar panels and how do they work? 

What are Solar Panels?  

Simply put, solar panels turn sunlight into electricity. People use them to make clean energy for homes, businesses, and big solar farms. They help the planet by using the sun instead of burning fuels that pollute the air. 

Solar panels are made of tiny parts called solar cells. These cells are usually made from a material called silicon. When sunlight hits the solar cells, they make electricity. At first, this electricity flows in one direction (called direct current). But to use it in homes and buildings, it needs to change into another kind (called alternating current). A machine called an inverter helps with this, so the electricity can power things like lights, TVs, and even go into the National Grid to help others use it too. 

How do Solar PV Panels work? 

Here’s a simplified step-by-step process of how solar panels work: 

  1. When light shines on the panel, it becomes energised and creates a flow of electricity. Even on cloudy days, solar panels can still generate electricity, as they react to visible light – not direct sunlight. 
  1. The electricity must then pass through an inverter to make it suitable for use in the home. The solar cells initially generate a DC current (direct current) which must be converted to an AC current (alternating current) before being useable. 
  1. The inverter is normally positioned inside your home and as close to the solar panels as possible, such as the loft or garage. Micro inverters are also available and tuck beneath each solar panel. 

What are the benefits of Solar PV? 

If you’re interested in solar PV, but unsure if it’s the right thing for you, here are a few reasons to choose solar panels: 

  • Environmental impact: Solar energy is a renewable, clean source, helping you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future. 
  • Energy savings: Generate your own electricity and reduce your energy bills by up to 80%. 
  • Income opportunity: You can also sell unused electricity back to the grid and receive payments. On average, during 2023–24, households earned about 13p per kilowatt-hour (kWh) exported. This average is based on the £30.7 million paid out for 283GWh of exported electricity from April 2023 to March 2024, and equates to £164 for a home with a 4.4kWp system, average UK irradiance, and 66% self-consumption. 
  • Easy Installation: Most projects don’t require planning permission and are completed within 1-2 days depending on the project). 
  • Low Maintenance: Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance. When used with battery storage, you can store and use the generated power at night. 
  • Noise-free: Enjoy silent energy generation – no disruptions for you or your neighbours.

Interested? 

Start saving on your energy bills today! Click here for a free quote.