Solar energy is becoming an increasingly popular choice for powering homes in the UK. Solar panels are a cost-effective way to reduce your reliance on the grid and generate your own clean energy.
With the right setup and solar PV installer, solar energy systems can provide reliable energy for your home and help you save on your electricity bills.
In this guide, we’ll look at how solar panels work and the benefits they offer for homeowners in the UK.
How solar panels work
Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into electricity. When the sun’s rays hit the PV cells, they generate an electrical charge. This is then sent to an inverter, which converts the energy into usable AC electricity.
The solar panels are then connected to your home’s electrical system, allowing you to use the energy generated. Any energy you don’t use is sent back to the grid.
Benefits of solar panels
Solar panels are a great way to reduce your reliance on the grid and save money on your electricity bills. The energy generated by solar panels is clean and renewable, so you can be sure that you’re doing your bit to help the environment.
Solar energy is also extremely reliable. It’s available all year round, so you don’t have to worry about running out of energy or relying on the grid to provide power.
Solar panel installation process
Installing solar panels is a complex process that requires professional help. It’s important to find a qualified installer who can assess your home and provide advice on the best system for you.
The installer will need to ensure that the panels are positioned to get the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day. Once the panels have been installed, the installer will connect them to your home’s electrical system and make sure everything is working correctly.
A reliable energy source that saves you money
While they are renewable and better for the environment than other energy sources, the main reason most homeowners opt for solar panels is because they save money. A solar PV system reduces energy bills significantly. Because solar panels can produce energy from the sun, you can rely less on your electricity provider to provide the electricity you need to power your home and its appliances.
Any excess solar power you generate can be sent back to the grid which you can be paid for. So, this long-term investment not only saves you money but it can also make you money if you store too much of it.
How many homes have solar panels in the UK?
According to the most recent MCS data, more than 1.3 million homes in the UK have solar panel installations. This means that 4.1% of the 29 million homes in the UK are using solar panels to generate electricity. This number is likely to gradually increase each year, with growing environmental concerns and more people realising the economic benefits of solar.
