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Home grown energy
It's less about feeling the heat, more about seeing the light Understanding solar electricity systems A common myth is that solar electricity generation depends on heat or direct sunlight. Not true. It is dependent on light intensity. Which is why it works on overcast days and during the winter months. Another important fact about solar energy is that there are no emissions or moving parts. Maintenance, therefore, is as good as nil. How solar electricity systems work Put simply, solar panels installed on your roof create (DC) direct power. This is converted to 230v AC, via an inverter, and is then fed into your home. Actually, this is similar to the way electricity is supplied by your conventional energy company. Then, if you generate any surplus energy in this way, it is automatically channelled into the national grid through your consumer unit.
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If you are considering a Photovoltaic system, consider these factors first: • Solar panels work most efficiently if mounted on the south facing roof of your home. However we design bespoke systems for southwest, southeast and west and east facing roofs. • The pitch of your roof will have a bearing on your system's efficiency, as will its size. The more panels you install, the more light can be captured and the more energy you can generate. • Properties with north facing, thatched, asbestos roofs, have overhanging trees or have shadows from surrounding properties are usually unsuitable for a solar energy system. • Listed buildings will usually be subject to planning restrictions which can make it difficult to install a solar energy system.
The technology behind solar electricity How it works Our solar electricity systems are a highly efficient, cost effective method of harnessing the sun's rays and converting them to electricity for your home. Our innovative and leading edge photovoltaic modules work in this way: • Our high performance photovoltaic modules, better known as solar panels, are manufactured from multiple interconnected polycrystalline silicon solar cells. • They are linked together to form what is known as a photovoltaic string. • As ours is a bespoke system, the array can be designed, dependent on your roof's size, your needs and your budget. • We will ascertain the correct size of array needed to generate the right amount of solar electricity for your home. • The array is then securely fastened to the roof of your home using tough, long lasting and reliable aluminium mountings.
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• The cells of your array capture solar energy and convert it into direct current (DC), which is fed through cables to your inverter. This is carefully selected to match your array and optimise its output. • Your inverter converts the direct current (DC) from the panels to alternating current (AC), which is fed via a meter into your home. • Your meter records how much electricity you are generating for your Feed in Tariff.
The components of your system Solar panels Apple’s solar panels are engineered from silicon layers which respond to light radiation to generate direct current (DC). They are manufactured with 60 individual solar cells, linked together to form a photovoltaic module. Then, a number of modules are connected to create a photovoltaic array, designed to generate the optimum electricity. The more panels you install the more electricity you will generate but we will advise you on the optimum number for your individual situation.
Isolators For your safety and peace of mind we install isolators into your system. This safety device protects electricians who may be required to access or service the system in the future. Wiring Your solar system is wired into your home's existing electrics by one of our expert and qualified electricians. They will install your new solar system and your solar generation meter to record the amount of free electricity your solar array generates.
Inverters Domestic electricity systems which power the homes of the UK run at 230v alternating current (AC). The inverter changes the direct current (DC) from the solar panels on your roof to alternating current (AC). As no two systems are necessarily the same, neither will the choice of inverter that's best suited to your home and installation. As the aim is to maximise the output from your solar panels, without effecting the aesthetics of your home, your inverter will usually be installed in your loft.
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