Home Solar Systems Explained

In this article we want to explain how a solar panel system works in your home and what the different parts are and how they work. Solar panels have been around for decades and are a familiar sight on roofs around the UK. Solar panels generate electricity that can be used to power your appliances, lights and electric car.

Solar panels create energy out of exposure to daylight. The panels themselves consist of smaller solar cells. These solar cells are then made up of several layers of semi-conductors.

When sunlight hits the solar cells, it creates an electric current between these layers called direct current energy. With the help of an inverter the direct current energy is then converted to usable alternating current which flows through the home’s electrical system and is distributed to your TV and other appliances.

Do solar panels work when its cloudy?

Solar panels need light rather than sunshine, meaning they can generate electricity even when its cloudy. Although solar panels are more efficient when exposed to direct sunlight, they still create an electric current which helps power homes on cloudy days.

The amount of energy solar panels make isn’t reliant upon high temperatures either. Solar panels can convert light into energy in the coldest of weather as well as in the midst of summer. This means regardless of the weather, you don't have to worry that your system isn't going to work.

What are the different solar panel options?

The two most common residential solar panel installations are:

• Surface mounted solar panel systems

Surface mounted solar panel systems are solar panels that are installed directly onto the surface of a structure, rather than being integrated into the building material itself. These systems are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications to harness solar energy and convert it into electricity. Surface mounted have been fitted to many of the existing homes in the UK as they are low cost and easy to install.

• In roof solar panel systems

In-roof solar panel systems integrate into the roof of your property seamlessly, acting as part of the roof covering. As well as being as hard wearing and as weather proof as normal roof tiles, the components of this system are extremely lightweight, meaning they can be very quickly installed. Compared to standard on-roof solar panels, there is no need for extra roof tiles or racking underneath the array, meaning that any repair work does not warrant the need to decommission the panels to reach the roof tiles underneath.

What is a solar battery storage?

Solar battery storage allows you to store electricity generated from the sun via your solar panels to use in the evening or at a later date. Adding a solar battery system is a great way to use renewable energy to increase your independence from the grid.

View our solar page learn more about how you can save on your electricity bills.