Home grown energy S OL A R E NE RGY
SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC
APPLE POWER
Organic Electricity
Contents
Our aim is to help you understand solar energy..........................2 For us, the sun as a source of energy simply shines ....................5 Renewable energy? Things are looking up ..................................6 Could solar energy save and make you money? .........................8 Apple is where homeowners always come first.........................10 When it comes to solar energy, things are warming up ............13 It's less about feeling the heat, more about seeing the light .....14 Photovoltaic solar electricity systems give you more choice .......16 The technology behind solar electricity .....................................18 How the sun can get you into hot water ..................................21 The benefits of a solar thermal system......................................22 Frequently asked questions .......................................................26 Your successful solar energy installation in 10 easy steps ..........28 What our customers say ...........................................................30
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Our aim is to help you understand solar energy Lower energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint and extra income... what's not to love about solar energy? Renewables, carbon emissions, global warming, carbon footprints, wind power... the news headlines have been full of this kind of jargon and technical-speak for quite a while now. But what does it all mean to you? This brochure has been designed to help you cut through all the confusion and help you to make an informed decision about whether solar energy is the right choice for you, your home, your lifestyle and, of course, your pocket. In the world of renewable energy there are two important factors 1. Scientists believe the world is warming up and that warming presents a real threat to the planet and, therefore, our future. Our carbon emissions – especially from heating and lighting our homes – play a big part in global warming and need to be reduced. Using more renewable energy generated through sustainable means (such as solar energy) could help us to do just that.
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2. Plus, and you won't need reminding about this, the cost of energy for heating and lighting our homes from fossil fuels just keeps rising. These two factors have motivated homeowners like you to look at alternative energy sources. However, the upfront costs of installing an alternative energy source – such as solar panels – has frankly made their installation difficult to justify for many people. Now, that's all changed! As you may know, the recent introduction of attractive Government backed tariffs (Feed in Tariff or F.I.T, as they are known) for renewable energy generation have made many homeowners right across the country think again. And now renewable energy for the home – your home? – makes sense ecologically and, most importantly, economically. Here at Apple, we've taken a long, hard look at all the popular alternative and renewable energy sources for the home, from wind to water power. We'd like to explain to you the pros and cons of each on the next page.
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For us, the sun as a source of energy simply shines When it comes to alternative energy sources... you have lots of alternatives to consider. There are a number of different renewable energy choices available to you and we've outlined the advantages and disadvantages of each below. Wind Advantages: Wind is free, the energy from it can be stored in batteries for times when the turbines are still. The UK has nearly half of Europe's total wind energy. Disadvantages: Wind turbines for your home can be a bit of an eyesore, tend to be noisy and vibrate. None of which endears them to your neighbours! Air source heat pumps Advantages: Good for low grade heat and hot water generation and need virtually no maintenance. Disadvantages: Space is required around the units as they need room to receive a good flow of air. Plus your home's insulation will probably need to be upgraded and unless you have underfloor heating – with which they are best suited to work – you may need to change to it to get the full benefits.
Ground source pumps Advantages: As the ground 3 metres below the surface stays a constant temperature all year round, you could rely on a steady supply of energy for heating and hot water. Disadvantages: Heat is generated at only a fairly low temperature, which is why – like air source systems – this option is better suited for use with underfloor heating. A trench or bore hole needs to be dug in your garden to lay the necessary pipework. This can be inconvenient if you have a small garden and near impossible if you don't have one. Hydro electricity Advantages: A clean, cost effective energy source. Disadvantages: Not many of us live near a legally accessible, fast and consistently flowing water course! From our extensive research into renewable energy sources we believe that solar power – using light from the sun – is the most convenient, simple and cost effective way forward.
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Renewable energy? Things are looking up Help power your home with the sun and Apple We believe that solar energy represents your best chance of cost effectively and conveniently reducing your energy bills and carbon footprint. In addition, you will be able to generate an income from the energy the panels produce. But it's not what's best for us that counts, it's what's best for you So, as we said at the beginning of this brochure, our aim is to enable you to make the right decision about solar energy and whether it's right for your home. As part of that, we'll provide you with honest, objective and transparent advice. Your home and situation is unique, so our service is tailored to your individual needs When considering solar energy for your home, there are a number of important factors to take into account. Here they are in outline: *Is your home suitable? The orientation of your home or the presence of nearby trees or tall buildings may adversely impact on a solar energy solution.
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*Irradiation levels Irradiation levels vary across the country. So we'll explain what they're like in your area, to give you an understanding of just how much energy can be generated from the sun where you live. *The pitch and position of your roof The angle of your roof and the way it faces are also important considerations in the success of a solar energy system. Don't worry though, we can easily measure your roof and work out how much space, and in which position, you have your panels. *Photovoltaic or Solar Thermal? Again, don't worry about the jargon. The first of these options, Photovoltaic (sometimes known as PV or Solar Energy) generates electricity for your home. The second option, Solar Thermal, simply heats your water. We'll help you decide which is best for your home and your needs. *Your lifestyle The way you and your family live and use energy is obviously important in your choice of a renewable solution.
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*Your expectations Apple will give you a clear, realistic and practical idea of what solar energy can deliver to you, so that the benefits you and your family actually gain match your expectations. *Costs We will tell you, in an honest and straightforward way, what your installation will cost, how much money it could save you and how much you make through incentives such as the Feed in Tariff. Myth busting There's a lot of hype surrounding sustainable and renewable energy sources. So here are a few facts about solar energy: • There are two types of solar energy system: Photovoltaic, which generates solar electricity and Solar Thermal, which heats water. • In the UK, the sun radiates, on average, the equivalent energy output of about 1,000 power stations. • Though every location in the country could benefit from solar energy, the amount of irradiation which falls on different areas of the UK varies. This means that the power generated from solar energy varies too, depending on where you live.
• Solar energy systems work all year round, because they use light from the sun not heat, although they do produce more energy in the summer months. • Solar panels work best on south facing roofs, but work in west or east facing locations as well. • Planning permission is not usually required to install solar panels. You will require Building Regulations approval. Don't worry, our experts will look after that aspect for you. • The government's green energy initiatives mean that solar energy systems have never made as much economic sense as they do now. We can't just 'give you a quote' and you can quote us on that! When it comes to choosing the right solar energy solution for you, your home and your pocket, there are simply too many variables and issues to be carefully considered before we can give you an accurate estimate of the costs and benefits involved. So please don't ask for a 'ball park figure' over the phone!
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Could solar energy save and make you money? Government incentives mean that by reducing your CO2 emissions you could actually receive payments! If you install a renewable energy solution – such as solar – there are government schemes which can help to save and possibly even make you money. Here's an idea as to how the two current schemes work: Feed in Tariffs (or F.I.T) for Solar Electricity systems Don't just generate electricity, you could generate payments as well... • Your energy supplier will pay you a set rate for every unit or kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity you generate. This tariff will continue for 25 years, the payments are tax free and increase in line with inflation. • For every unit of energy you generate but do not use and export to the grid you will receive an additional payment.
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So, as a result of installing a solar energy system for your home, your bills will be lower because you're buying less electricity from your supplier and your income will be higher from your Feed in Tariff. Renewable Heat Incentive for Solar Thermal systems There is a limited budget available for the Renewable Heat Premium Payment incentive of £300 and can be applied via the Energy Savings Trust from 1st August 2011 untill the 31st March 2012 and then the second phase will be released as part of the ‘Green Deal’ in 2012.
How the tariff works Until smart meters are introduced into UK homes, it is deemed that 50% of the electricity that is generated is exported back to the grid and the other 50% is used in your home.
Generate
USE & SAVE
EXPORT & SELL
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Total benefit and savings
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Apple is where homeowners always come first We thrive on saving people money We have been in the business of offering our customers money saving home improvements for over a decade now. These include:
Why Apple is good for you We promise that this is what you can expect from us:
• Roofline products that include, fascias, soffits, guttering, and A rated energy efficient windows and doors.
• An accurate idea of how much energy you can generate, what it will cost and what it will save you.
• Innovations, such as solar energy that help people reduce their energy bills, their carbon footprint and their reliance on non-renewable fuel.
• A clear description of the government schemes available and how each could help you generate an income as you generate power.
Setting the standard that sets Apple apart Our solar energy systems are always tailored exactly to your needs, your lifestyle and your home.
• An accurate, objective opinion on your suitability for solar energy. If any aspect of your home or its location makes it unsuitable – such as the way it faces, lack of available space to affix panels, overhanging trees or other shaded considerations – we'll make it clear.
Our service starts with a full technical survey undertaken by one of our experts and only then will we tell you in a clear, concise and objective way exactly what solar energy can – and can't – do for you. If it's not suitable for your home or its situation, we'll tell you straight away. And your service ends with our full guarantee, for your complete peace of mind.
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• Detailed discussions regarding your situation, the right solution for your home and what you can achieve from it.
• Calculations based on every aspect that may effect the efficiency of your solar energy system, from the way your family uses electricity to the amount of sun your home receives. • High quality, excellent value products; fully trained and qualified professional installation teams plus helpful, friendly service and support at every stage of the process.
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When it comes to solar energy, things are warming up A Photovoltaic or Solar Hot Water system? You decide You can select from either a Solar Electricity System (known as a PV or Photovoltaic system) which generates electricity, or a Solar Hot Water system (solar thermal) which heats your water. Alternatively, you can choose to install both. We will advise you on the potential of the systems to help you make an informed choice.
In Germany, where the climate is almost identical to ours, there has been a ten fold increase in the installation of Photovoltaic systems since their government introduced a tariff in 2004. Similarly, the introduction of the Renewable Heat Premium Payment is also expected to lead to an increase in demand for solar hot water systems.
Solar energy – then Though both types of solar energy systems use solar collectors that are generally roof mounted, those you probably saw most of in your area over the last few years were for heating hot water. Traditionally, this type of system was more popular. Solar energy – now With the introduction of the government's Feed In Tariff there has been a marked increase in the number of Photovoltaic systems now being installed.
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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.
Photovoltaic solar electricity systems give you more choice Increase your options and your money saving potential People without solar electricity systems have no option but to buy all their electricity from one supplier at a time, and have little protection against rising energy prices. However, install an Apple solar energy system and not only can you supply a portion of your own electricity needs, you can sell any surplus back to the grid and earn a return through the Feed in Tariff (F.I.T). And not only could you enjoy the benefits through reduced power bills, the planet and future generations will benefit too, through reduced carbon emissions.
Bluetooth output display unit Our controllers play an integral role in your solar solution. Informative, compact and easy to operate, the output display unit with Bluetooth is an innovative monitoring solution. Key data is visible on its large graphic display, including a daily profile, current output, as well as daily and total energy yield. The energy yield can be shown in pounds, and the CO2 savings can all be accessed with one hand.
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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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Frequently asked questions Photovoltaic (P.V.) From our extensive experience of designing and installing solar energy systems, we've compiled a shortlist of frequently asked questions regarding the subject. We hope the list of FAQs below helps you but if there are still any questions you have or issues you'd like to discuss, please do not hesitate to call us on 0800 808 9237 or send an e-mail to info@applesolarenergy.com or visit www.applesolarenergy.com
Q: When will my solar P.V. energy system work? A: Daylight hours. Essentially, solar panels absorb sunlight to generate energy. So while they work best on long summer days when there is the most sunlight, they still generate energy in winter. Q: How much can a solar energy system save me? A: This depends on many factors, such as the location of your home, the position and angle of the roof, your lifestyle and so on. This is why we prefer to see and discuss these factors with you before providing you with an accurate estimate of the energy you are likely to generate and the savings you might enjoy. Q: What is the best position for solar panels on my roof? A: South facing locations perform best, followed by south west and then south east locations. A west facing roof is better than an east, whilst north facing and shaded locations are unsuitable. Apple Solar Energy 20
Q: What sort of roofs are not suitable for solar panels? A: Solar panels cannot be fitted to asbestos or thatched roofs. Q: Do I need planning permission? A: Usually you don't, however it is worth checking with your planning authority, if you live in a listed building or a conservation area. Q: Is installation a lengthy process? A: No, our average installation takes around one to two days subject, of course, to the size and complexity of your installation. Q: If I'm away and not using the energy I'm generating, what happens to it? A: Any surplus electricity generated by a PV system is automatically fed back to the grid and for this you will automatically receive a further payment per kWh. On the other hand, if you have a solar thermal system that heats your hot water, it’s temperature will be maintained in holiday mode meaning your boiler will have to work less and you'll still save money. Q: Can one of your solar energy systems provide all my power needs? A: Sadly not. At night, for example, or when you are using a lot of power or water, your system will need to be augmented by energy from conventional sources to maintain a constant supply. Q: I've heard I can make money from solar energy systems, is that true? A: Yes. With the Feed In Tariff (FIT) system available on a PV system, you are currently paid a fixed charge per unit for the electricity you generate that you use. Plus a further payment per unit for the electricity you don't use and export to the grid, which is index linked. In addition, of course, you are saving money by not having to pay for electricity you generate and use yourself. Apple Solar Energy 21
Your successful solar energy installation in 10 easy steps No two installations are the same As we said right at the beginning of this brochure, your home, your lifestyle, your budget and your energy usage are all unique. So we'll tailor our solar energy systems to suit you.
Right from the very start of the process we want to ensure that we understand your needs and aspirations as much as you understand what Apple solar energy can do for you, from the costs to the possible savings. First and foremost we need to be sure solar energy is right for your home So we'll check: • The amount of irradiation in your area • The aspect of your home • How much space you have available so we can design the right sized system • Anything that will impede the efficiency of your solar energy system, such as overhanging trees or chimneys. We'll do all we can to ensure the system you buy is right for you, not for us. And only once you are completely happy, will we plan and implement your system for you, at a time that suits you, so you can start saving money and carbon emissions.
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Your first step to a solar powered home Call us free on 0800 808 9237, or e-mail to info@applesolarenergy.com or visit www.applesolarenergy.com to make an appointment with one of our specialist team. They'll answer all your questions, fully discuss and understand your individual requirements and then give you a free no obligation quotation.
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Working from the outside in The external elements of your solar panel installation take place, with secure fixing to your roof.
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Getting it right, first time Your Apple solar energy surveyor is equipped with a software application which will provide you with specific details of your location, your roof angle and orientation to ensure solar energy is right for your home.
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Moving inside We then install the internal components of your solar system, creating the minimum of disruption and ensuring a neat and professional finish.
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Attention to detail ensures success A more detailed survey will follow from your consultation. Our expert surveyor will thoroughly check your roof and take the precise measurements that we need for installation.
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Switch on and test Once all the installation work has been completed and all connections made, we switch on, test and double check that every aspect of your installation is functioning correctly.
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Respecting the law To save you the time and trouble, we will obtain Building Regulations approval on your behalf and thus ensure that your installation complies with the appropriate regulations.
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Getting the best from your system Once your new solar system is complete, we will show and fully explain how it works, so you can gain maximum benefit from it, from day one.
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The scaffolding goes up When required we will erect appropriate scaffolding to ensure the safety of both you and our installers during installation.
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An after sales service that's simply second to none Our comprehensive ten year guarantee is designed to give you complete peace of mind and covers your entire solar energy system.
To find out how you could reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint, while increasing your income from generating electricity you don't use, call free on 0800 808 9237, e-mail info@applesolarenergy.com or visit www.applesolarenergy.com
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Our promise, is to make you happy What our customers have to say...
Professor Peter Townsend Brighton Sussex
“The installation was quite rapid and went smoothly and so here is a short progress report on the very first month of installation of my PV panels. The first 28 days in July gave me 484kW. This is very encouraging as this year July was overcast on quite a few days here on the Sussex coast because of sea mist. “I was very amused to see the meter merrily spinning backwards when the sun was shining.”
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Mr and Mrs Garwood Petersfield Hampshire
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“I would just like to say how happy I was with the information given by the surveyor prior to installation and as promised the work was completed within the time specified, even though the electrician had to work in extreme heat. “With west facing orientation we have achieved 20kwh.”
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Our promise, is to make you happy What our customers have to say...
Ken and Jenny Parkinson Christchurch Dorset
“We recently had PV panels fitted by Apple Solar to our property in Christchurch. We are more than satisfied with the work which was carried out and would like you to pass on our sincere thanks to all involved. “Suffice to say, the system is working very well and even at this time of the year we are gaining more units of electricity than we use on sunny days. What is really satisfying is seeing the disc on our electric meter go backwards and the units used decrease!”
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Mr and Mrs Anderson Hedge End Southampton Hampshire
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“My wife and I are very pleased with our Apple solar panels that have been fitted to our bungalow. “I must say the service we received was first class from start to finish.”
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Our promise, is to make you happy What our customers have to say...
Peter & Clare Hill Hayling Island Hampshire
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“We should like to congratulate Apple Solar Energy on their efficient and friendly service for the installation of our Solar Panels. We were very relieved to learn that all of the panel fixing was carried out from the outside and the scaffolders were able to take all the scaffolding down the following afternoon. The inverter was fitted with a Bluetooth transmitter, so we are able to monitor performance without having to climb into the loft! So after just under 4 days we have generated 30KwH, in cloudy weather with only about 30% sunshine. Our best day yielded 11.4KwH (with 8 panels).�
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Mr and Mrs Yolland West End Southampton Hampshire
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“A manager came to give an explanation of how the system works and the electricity it could produce. Arrangements were made for a surveyor to check the number of panels ordered were correct and would fit. “Installation was booked and the work was completed in 2 days. The Apple work team were all very efficient and carried out their work professionally. We are extremely pleased with the system.”
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