Solar photovoltaic (PV) installations are more popular than ever in the UK and Jem Energy wants to make the process of introducing this technology to your home much easier.
This type of system generates electricity through the ‘photovoltaic effect’; this is where sunlight excites electrons in a semiconductor material, creating an electric current.
A typical PV system includes solar panels (arrays of PV cells), an inverter (converts DC to AC), mounting systems, and sometimes batteries for storage.
With these kinds of solar panels, you can also choose from various types of PV cells. The most common types are monocrystalline, polycrystalline (or multicrystalline), and thin-film. Monocrystalline cells are the most efficient but also the most expensive.
What types of installations are there?
When it comes to residential buildings, solar panels are installed on the roof or on small ground-mounted arrays. These types of panels usually range from 2 to 10 kW. Meanwhile for commercial buildings, panels often range between 10 kW to several MW.
Did you know that solar PV is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources?
Although the UK is doing better than in the past, with record numbers of installations. According to MCS, there were more than 183,000 solar panel installations across Britain in 2023. This is a third higher than in the year before, showing that solar is an increasingly popular renewable technology.
However, China is the largest market for solar PV, followed by the United States, Japan, Germany, and India. One reason they’ve grown in popularity in Britain is a drop in price.
The cost of solar PV has dropped dramatically, by about 89% over the last decade, making it competitive with traditional fossil fuels. Most recently, Cornwall has emerged as one of the leading locations in the UK for solar panels. So much so, it’s been described as a ‘hotspot’ for renewable energy. This part of the country is doing particularly well when it comes to small-scale installations.
Jem Energy specialises in residential solar panel installations all over the UK, including in the south west. We offer both solar panels and battery storage to help you power your home more effectively in the years ahead. Based in Farnborough, Hampshire, we’re particularly ideal for those based in the South East.
A solar panel installation offers many advantages.
Firstly, you will have a much lower impact on the environment. Solar PV systems produce no greenhouse gases during operation, significantly reducing carbon footprints compared to fossil fuels.
Secondly, they can help you achieve independence from the grid. Energy prices in the UK remain highly unpredictable and put significant pressure on households. Solar PV can both reduce your dependence on imported fuels and make you feel more secure in your ability to survive energy price spikes.
What are the main challenges and considerations to have before getting solar PV panels installed at your property?
It’s important to realise that solar panels are dependent on the availability of sunlight. However, it’s a misconception that the UK isn’t suitable for this type of system. Most properties are suitable for solar panels and they will receive a reliable source of energy.
Another downside is the initial cost. Despite falling prices, the initial investment for solar PV systems can be substantial. However, it is usually offset by incentives and long-term savings. Most householders find that having a solar panel installation is worth the investment.
There’s also the matter of space. Large-scale installations require significant land area, which can compete with other land uses. However, most houses can have solar panels installed.
This technology is advancing all the time.
Ongoing research aims to improve the efficiency of PV cells, with some experimental cells achieving over 40% efficiency in laboratory settings. Advances in battery technology, such as lithium-ion and flow batteries, are enhancing the ability to store solar energy for use during non-sunny periods.
Some countries might even be able to meet their total energy requirements through the use of floating solar panels.
Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) integrate PV cells into building materials like windows and facades, offering aesthetic and functional benefits.
Homeowners with a solar PV system can sell excess electricity back to the grid, providing financial benefits and promoting energy balance.
What will the future bring for solar panels?
The global solar PV market is expected to continue to expand. It’s set to be driven by decreasing costs, technological advancements, and policy support.
This is highly encouraging in terms of the environment. Solar PV plays a crucial role in achieving renewable energy targets and reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. Solar PV installations represent a key component of the transition to a sustainable energy future, providing numerous environmental, economic, and social benefits.
Find out more about our solar PV installations or don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team for more information.