Solar PV Panel FAQ

With Ploughcroft’s extensive knowledge and experience in renewables, we are often asked questions and guidance about solar and pv solar matters. Our “Just ask Chris” button invites domestic customers to request advice, information and help about solar pv and renewable energy in general. Solar pv facts are a Ploughcroft speciality, so below are just a few examples of the FAQ’s that come our way about solar energy:

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How Solar PV works

What are the main components of a photovoltaic (PV) system?

A photovoltaic system is made up of various components:

1. PV modules or groups of pv cells, also known as pv panels
2. A charge regulator or controller for a stand-alone system
3. An energy inverter for converting alternating current (ac) instead of direct current (dc)
4. Complete wiring and mounting hardware / framework

How does a PV solar system work?

1. Sunlight strikes the photovoltaic cells and is converted to clean electricity.
2. The inverter converts the electricity from dc to ac, suitable for use in the home.
3. If the system is producing more power than is needed, it can be exported to the national grid.
4. During night time, power may be imported from the grid in the standard way.
5. Solar power is a green, renewable energy source with zero CO2 emissions.

Do PV systems work during the winter in the UK?

Yes, pv solar systems now operate well even in cloudier climates because solar panel suppliers have significantly enhanced system efficiency. Bear in mind that intensity of light is more important than direct sunlight in terms of generating solar power. Even when it is cold and overcast, your solar panels will continue producing clean electricity during the day to power your home. We can assess and advise upon your individual pv requirements.

What happens to PV systems if there is a power cut?

Our photovoltaic systems for homes are usually connected to the grid, so your system is automatically switched off in the event of an electricity cut. This is a safety measure designed to stop electricity leaking on to the grid and also to protect utility workers restoring the power supply.

What happens if my PV system produces more energy than I use?

Whenever your pv solar panels produce more electricity than your home is using, it will feed into the national grid. If you have arranged a contract with your energy company, you will receive payment for your input. This in turn ensures your energy bills will be reduced and that none of your clean, green electricity goes to waste.

Solar PV System Installation

How long does it take to install my PV solar system?

PV systems can be installed and ready to produce green electricity within 6 weeks after the design agreement between householder and installer has been made.

What size photovoltaic (PV) energy system do I need?

Exactly how big the solar system you need depends on several factors.

1. The amount of electricity, hot water or space heat you use.
2. The level of sunshine available in your region.
3. The size of your roof and how much space is available for solar panels
4. Your budget and how much you wish to invest in a solar PV system.
5. We will discuss all these factors and advise the optimum size of system that is suitable for you.

Do I have enough sunlight for a PV system?

Most homes and locations in the UK are suitable for pv systems. A photovoltaic (PV) system ideally needs unobstructed access to the sun's rays for most of the daylight hours. However, climate is not really a concern and some pv panels are designed to actually work better in colder weather. Most pv modules are angled to catch the sun's rays, so any snow that collects on them will melt as quickly as possible.

Do I have enough roof space for a PV solar system?

Most homes have adequate roof space for a pv system, but we will have to assess your system requirements first to decide how much space is required. If your roof space is limited, you can consider other options such as integrating the system into a wall or putting the system in the back yard, or you could also use the system to cover a porch or patio. We can advise on the options for pv systems available to you.

How long do photovoltaic (PV) solar systems last?

A solar pv system that is correctly designed, installed, and maintained will operate for more than 20 years. The basic pv module is an interconnected, enclosed panel of PV cells, which has no moving parts and has a lifespan of more than 30 years. PV panels are robustly built and even hail or severe weather conditions won't damage most photovoltaic systems

How much cleaning and maintenance do pv systems need?

Solar pv systems have no moving parts, operate silently and require no maintenance. Rain will keep the modules clean most of the time, but an excessive build up of dirt can affect system performance. The degree of soiling will depend on the location and tilt of the modules. If the array tilt is at least 15 degrees, dust accumulation and self-cleaning reach a steady state after a few weeks, but In extreme cases dirt may cause a power reduction of about 10%. At low tilts, horizontal glazing bars can trap debris which could affect performance but an efficient design of the system should aim to minimise uneven soiling. Where necessary, modules can be cleaned with either a hose or soapy water and a non-abrasive brush

Terms used for Solar PV

Is there a difference between a kilowatt (kW) and a kilowatt hour (kWh)?

A kW is a thousand watts. It is a unit of power and measures the rate of energy conversion. A kWh refers to the amount of energy used when a kilowatt of power works for one hour.

What is kWp, and how does it relate to kW and kWh?

A kWp is the kilowatt 'peak' of a system, the highest possible output of a pv solar panel in perfect conditions. This is a standardised test for panels across all manufacturers to ensure that the values listed are capable of comparison.

What is PV or photovoltaics (solar electricity)?

The word photovoltaics was first used in about 1890 derived from photo, from the Greek phos, meaning light, and volt, a unit of measurement named after Alessandro Volta (1745-1827), a pioneer in the study of electricity. The literal translation of photovoltaics could therefore be light-electricity. This is essentially what photovoltaic materials and devices do; they convert light energy to electricity. If you need to know more solar energy facts or simply need some expert, friendly advice or guidance, please contact us.

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UK Renewable Energy Installation

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Ploughcroft Solar offer solar panel installation across the whole of the UK. The areas where we are currently offering installation are as follows:

North: Blackburn, Blackpool, Bradford, Crewe, Halifax, Harrogate, Huddersfield, Lancaster, Leeds, Manchester, Oldham, Preston, Stockport, Warrington, Wigan, York

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