Facts - Solar Panels

Solar power - the basics
In a single hour the sun transmits more energy to the earth’s surface than humankind uses in a year, but at present we don’t make the most of this free and plentiful resource.

There are cheap and easy ways to capture the sun’s energy, like passive solar which means designing or redesigning your home to make the most of the sun.

For example, you might add an extra south-facing window or more insulation to your roof so you can hold onto energy from the sun for longer.

Many passive elements can be incorporated when a new house is being built or an old one undergoes major refurbishment, but you can’t turn your house around or alter the size of your windows easily so you should consider actively collecting the sun’s energy and making use of it (particularly tempting after a hot summer like the one we just had).

Active solar power
Active solar power means using a collector, usually a panel to collect energy.

There are two mains types of active solar collectors and they are very different.

Solar water heating, as the name suggests, heats water for use around your home. These are the panels you most commonly see on roofs around the UK.

Photovoltaics generate electricity from the sun’s energy and are a more expensive prospect.

You are more likely to see these on offices or large developments than on homes.

An average household will save about 50 per cent of the annual cost of providing hot water using solar panels - we’ve tested seven systems here, so you can find out more about generating your own clean energy.

No longer the domain of specialist retailers, solar panels are going mainstream and are now available on the high street at branches of Currys.

Alternatively you can consult the Solar Trade Association website, www.greenenergy.org.uk, to find other retailers near you.

What to look out for
Type
There are two main types of solar panel - those which heat water and those which generate electricity (called photovoltaics).

Installation
Solar panels need to be professionally installed to qualify for a government grant. DIY installation is possible with some panels but you’ll need knowledge of complex electrics and plumbing, and be able to work safely on your roof.

Planning permission
Although not needed for all homes, planning permission will be required in some cases. Check with your local authority planning office, in particular if you live in a Listed building or Conservation Area.

Maintenance
Some of the panels we’ve tested suggest regular checks of the panels and connections or a wipe of the panel glass with mild detergent. Bear in mind how difficult this will be when panels are up on your roof.

source: Which

Facts Going Green