How Does Solar Energy Work?
Solar energy is one of the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy sources available today. It benefits millions, and the number of people installing solar panels continues to grow. In the UK alone, over 1.5 million homes now use solar panels to generate power, reflecting a strong rise in solar energy adoption.
Since 2014, Apex Doma has been an expert in this field, delivering trusted solar solutions to homeowners and businesses alike. We’ll cover the facts, benefits, and practical tips for those interested in solar power.
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What is Solar Energy?
Solar energy is the power we get from the sun’s rays, a natural and renewable source of energy that can be harnessed without producing harmful emissions. As a clean energy source, solar power helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lowers carbon footprints.
The process involves converting sunlight into electricity using solar panels through the photovoltaic (PV) effect, where sunlight excites electrons in the panel’s cells and creates an electric current.
This sustainable technology is becoming more common as local residents and businesses look for greener alternatives to traditional energy.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels are made up of many small solar cells, usually made from silicon, which absorb sunlight throughout the day.
When sunlight hits these cells, it generates direct current (DC) electricity. This electricity is not yet suitable for powering most household appliances, which use alternating current (AC).
The DC electricity flows from the solar panels to an inverter, a device that converts it into AC electricity for use in your home or business. Once converted, the electricity can be used immediately to power lights, appliances, and other devices.
If your solar panels produce more electricity than you need, the extra energy can be stored in solar batteries for later use or sent back to the electricity grid. This helps you save money and reduces reliance on external energy sources.
Explore the solar energy options Apex Doma offers to help you save energy and costs.
Types of Solar Energy Systems
Solar energy systems come in various forms, each suited to different needs and applications. Here’s a look at the main types:
Solar PV Panels vs Solar Thermal Panels
Solar PV panels convert sunlight directly into electricity, making them great for powering homes, businesses, and large-scale solar farms. In contrast, solar thermal panels capture the sun’s heat to provide heating solutions.
In simple words, PV panels generate electricity, whereas thermal panels are used primarily for heating purposes (e.g., warm water for household use or heating buildings). Both technologies harness solar energy but serve different needs.
Residential Rooftop vs Solar Farms
Residential rooftop solar panels are installed on individual homes to generate electricity for personal use, helping to reduce energy bills and carbon footprints. Solar farms, on the other hand, are large-scale installations spread over extensive land areas that produce significant amounts of electricity, which is fed into the power grid.
Rooftop solar panels support the energy demands of a single property, in contrast to solar farms that produce electricity for extensive areas and multiple users.
Hybrid Systems
Hybrid solar energy systems combine solar panels with battery storage or a connection to the electricity grid. These systems allow users to store excess energy produced during sunny periods in batteries for use on cloudy days.
Alternatively, when battery storage is low, electricity can be drawn from the grid to ensure a continuous power supply.
Benefits of Solar Energy
Switching to solar energy offers a range of advantages, from environmental impact to financial savings. Here are some of the key benefits:
Reduce Carbon Footprint
Solar energy produces renewable power that helps lower greenhouse gas emissions. So, by switching to solar, you contribute to a healthier environment and play a part in reducing climate change.
Save on Electricity Bills and Boost Property Value
Installing solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills by generating your own power. Additionally, homes equipped with solar systems often see an increase in property value, making it a smart financial decision.
Gain Energy Independence and Support The Grid
Solar energy allows you to rely less on external suppliers, giving you greater control over your electricity. Excess power generated can be fed back into the grid, helping to support the wider energy system and promote sustainability.
How is Solar Energy Integrated into the Grid?
Most solar energy systems are grid-tied, meaning they connect to the local electricity network. When your solar panels produce more electricity than you use, excess power is sent back to the grid through net metering or feed-in tariff (FIT) schemes, which can earn you credits or payments.
In addition to residential systems, solar farms generate large amounts of renewable energy for the grid, helping to supply electricity to communities and businesses. Apex Doma is committed to providing sustainable energy solutions that smoothly integrate solar power with existing electricity networks.
To see how we bring solar energy to life, take a moment to explore our story.
Maintenance and Lifespan of Solar Panels
Solar panels generally last over 25 years when installed and maintained correctly. Routine cleaning and inspections help maintain panel efficiency and allow early detection of potential faults. Taking care of your panels also keeps your warranty valid and helps them continue working reliably for many years.
At Apex Doma, we offer top-quality solar panels such as Jinko N-Type All Black, which still operates at 87% efficiency even after 30 years. Additionally, our support doesn’t end with installation. Our team is always here to provide ongoing maintenance and assistance whenever you need it.
If you want to keep your solar system running smoothly for years to come, contact Apex Doma today to schedule a free consultation and get expert advice.
FAQs
How much does a solar installation cost?
On average, homeowners can expect to pay between £5,000 and £10,000 for a typical residential system. However, the total cost depends on several factors, including the size of the system, the type of solar panels used, the complexity of the installation, and your property’s location.
If you’re thinking about going solar, book a quote with Apex Doma. We’ll provide a personalised estimate with no hidden fees.
Can solar power work on cloudy days?
Yes, solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy days, although production may be slightly lower. This is because modern panels are designed to capture sunlight even when it’s diffused by clouds.
For instance, factors like high-quality equipment, optimal installation angles, and local weather conditions help maximise energy output even when the sun isn’t shining brightly.
Will solar panels damage my roof?
No, when installed properly by experienced professionals, solar panels do not damage your roof. In fact, they can protect the areas they cover from weather exposure.
What happens if my panels produce excess energy?
The extra energy can be sent back to the grid through net metering or feed-in tariff schemes. As mentioned earlier, this allows you to earn credits or payments, helping to reduce your overall energy costs.
Why should I choose Apex Doma for my solar installation?
At Apex Doma, we have years of local experience and genuinely care about making a positive impact on the environment. Our mission is to help you contribute to a greener future while saving energy and costs.
Additionally, we are fully certified and proud to be an Octopus Trusted Partner, delivering the highest standards in every installation.
