Solar PV or solar photovoltaics uses photovoltaic cells to capture the free energy that the sun produces to generate electricity which can then be used to power house hold appliances and lighting. The Photovoltaic cells are made from layers of semi-con
Solar PV or solar photovoltaics uses photovoltaic cells to capture the free energy that the sun produces to generate electricity which can then be used to power house hold appliances and lighting. The Photovoltaic cells are made from layers of semi-conducting material, usually silicon which when light shines on creates an electric field across the layers. Solar PV still generates electricity when it is cloudy but the stronger the sunshine, the more electricity is produced.
Some benefits of Solar PV:
- Reduction in electricity bills
- Get paid for the energy that you produce
- Ability to sell any surplus back to the national grid
- Reduce your carbon footprint
A well installed 4kWp Solar PV system can generate around 3,800 kilowatt hours of electricity a year in the south of England which is the equivalent to a typical household’s electricity needs. It will save nearly two tonnes of carbon dioxide every year. On average a homeowner in London could receive a payment from the government of £530 for the energy it produces, a surplus payment of £90, an electricity bill saving of £135 and a carbon dioxide saving of 1,850kg.
There are a number of government grants and schemes available for the domestic user designed to help fund the initial installation cost 