How Solar Panels Work and Installation Procedures
Solar panels used to create energy for domestic and commercial applications are photovoltaic panels (PV). They are made of a material known as a semiconductor, usually silicon. The semiconductor collects the heat energy from the sun and converts it to electrical energy. A single PV panel which can power a 100 watt TV, but to power a whole residential property requires the installation of a full solar PV system. The panels are placed on a sunny aspect of the house, typically a roof or sunny wall. Different types of panel are available, including grey ones, and transparent ones which can be, used on a glass roof. To install a solar PV system, the client will need around 12m2 of space. The installation company will then carry out a survey to check the roof, or wall is structurally sound. The installers will also check there are no planning restrictions. The actual installation will take two or three days.
Costs
To install a solar system will vary in cost as it depends upon the householders requirements, but typically solar panels cost anything from around £12,000. This should include all the components, system design and preparatory work. The panels are usually guaranteed for ten years. Companies will vary, so it is essential to check what is included in your quote. Although the initial investment is significant, the government runs a scheme which helps householders to recoup the cost of installation. The scheme is known as Feed-in Tariffs. The scheme is guaranteed for twenty five years and pays householders with systems up to 5kw for producing electricity through renewable sources. On average, households should receive approximately £1,000 a year in these feed in tariffs. In addition, people can sell any excess electricity generated back to the national grid.
MCS
Only systems installed by MCS approved installers will be eligible for the feed in tariff. MCS stands for Microgeneration Certification Scheme. MCS was set up by government, but run by, and funded by, the installation industry. MCS was set up to ensure products and installation reach certain standards. The scheme is internationally recognised. To become a member of this quality assurance scheme must apply to the awarding body and be a member of either an OFT (office of fair trading) consumer scheme or the REAL assurance scheme. MCS runs a database for consumers to check if there installer is certified.
Free Installation of Solar Panels
A different option for installation is the so called 'rent my roof' scheme. In this scheme, homeowners have solar panels installed for free, benefiting from free or discounted energy. The installation company will benefit from the Feed In Tariffs and any resale to the national grid. The installation company will typically be responsible for maintaining the solar panels. Each company will have different terms, so any contract will need to be carefully read to ensure the installation is appropriate to your needs.
