Solar Panels | Installation Requirements, Advantages & Types

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Solar panels help to reduce your energy bills, providing value for the invested money with easy installation. These can be installed in residential and commercial properties to provide the required electricity supply by harnessing the sun’s natural sunlight, acting as a greener alternative.

With this article, you can learn about the working mechanism of solar panels, the requirements for their installation, and their advantages. You can also get information about the types of solar panels, how they are installed, and how you can make the most out of them. You can also learn about the maintenance of solar panels and planning permission requirements.

How Do Solar Panels Work?

Solar panel systems help convert solar energy into electrical energy, which can be utilised for various purposes, such as supplying power to electrical appliances. The solar panels help in capturing the sunlight, which is then converted into electrical energy with the help of semiconductors. This can also be stored in a battery for using it later on when it gets dark or can be redirected back to the grid.

Requirements to Install Solar Panels

The following are some of the critical requirements which you need to consider before installing solar panels on your property:

Weather Conditions

You can install solar panels on your property without the consideration of its location. However, their efficiency is enhanced with more sunshine, leading to more energy. But these can be installed even if your property does not receive direct sunlight throughout the year because solar panels can still work for electricity generation.

South Facing Roof

Solar panels’ efficiency is enhanced when installed on a south-facing roof and allows them to capture the maximum amount of sunlight. On the other hand, they become 15% to 20% less efficient if installed on East or West facing roofs. However, installing them on north-facing roof systems is not suggested.

Unshaded Spot

You should critically observe and confirm that no objects can cause shade over the solar panels, such as surrounding buildings, chimneys, trees, etc. Therefore, finding a suitable location without shade before installing the solar panels is essential.

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Advantages of Solar Panels

With solar panel installation, you do not have to worry about power outages as you can use the extra stored energy from the battery. You also do not need to pay high energy bills because of reduced reliance on the National grid’s electricity supply.

The decision to install solar panels on your property allows you to contribute towards a sustainable future using renewable energy. This way, you can enhance your property’s energy efficiency and reduce your overall carbon footprint.

What Are the Types of Solar Panels?

The following are the two main kinds of solar panels:

Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Panels

These solar panels capture the sun’s light energy directly with the help of photovoltaic (PV) cells and convert it into electrical energy to power your home’s appliances and equipment. When the sunlight falls on the PV cells, their variable electronic properties get energised due to light protons. It creates an electric field, which helps generate electricity due to the photoelectric effect.

They help to considerably reduce energy bills by providing the required electricity for your property.

Solar Thermal Panels

Solar thermal panels involve large, mirrored arrays for focusing the sun’s heating energy on a single point. The captured energy can be converted into electrical energy or used to heat water that powers steam turbines for producing power.

How Are Solar Panels Installed?

You should hire a professional installation company by conducting extensive research to compare their service credentials and cost quotes, choosing the right one for your project. You should also ask about the guarantees and warranties they offer and the project completion duration.

Once you choose a solar panel installation company, the installers visit your property to conduct the survey and assess the most suitable system. You should get a written quote with the fixed cost required for the installation project.

How to Make the Most Out of Your Solar Panels?

You should program your electrical appliances so that their maximum operational time is during the day, and you can make the most of your solar panel system. Moreover, you can also install a battery for storing extra energy and using it at any other time when there is no sun.

How to Maintain Solar Panels?

You can ensure the proper maintenance of solar panels with regular cleaning by using water and a soft brush to remove all the dirt and debris. You can easily clean the panels when they are moist or wet to wipe off all the grime. It is recommended not to use an abrasive sponge or soap for cleaning the solar panels to avoid scratches on their glass surfaces. This way, you can ensure your solar panel system lasts a minimum of 25 years.

Planning Permission & Solar Panels Installation

Planning permission is not needed for installing solar panels on your property if they cannot be seen from a road. Contrarily, approval of planning permission is needed for solar panel installation in listed buildings, flats, and properties in conservation areas.

This way, you can ensure no negative impacts on the surrounding area’s appearance and functionality. However, you should always consult your local planning authority to confirm the requirement of planning permission for your solar panel installation project.

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