How Does Solar PV Work?

If you’ve ever used a calculator that works without batteries, then you’ve made use of solar Photovoltaic (PV) technology. But this technology has far grander uses than merely powering up your trusty number cruncher! In fact, these days it’s being used more and more to power our homes and businesses, and it’s all made possible because of PV solar cells, which are able to convert sunlight into electricity.

And how is this possible?

Well, each PV cell consists of one or two layers of a semi-conducting material;  typically silicon. When sunlight shines on these cells, an electric field is created across the layers, causing electricity to flow. The more sunlight you get shining on the cell, the more electricity is created. (The amount of energy that these PV cells generate is known as kilowatt peak or kWp.)

But in order to create something large enough to power your home or business, these PV solar cells need to be wired together to form what’s called a module, otherwise known as a PV solar panel.

These solar panels are then installed on your roof as part of the solar PV system, and convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. An “inverter” is then incorporated into the system so that this DC power can be converted into alternating current (AC Power); the type of electricity used in homes and businesses.

As a result, the appliances that you use will be automatically fed by this electricity, which is now completely free! And on top of that, the photovoltaic (PV) systems are designed in such a way that if the solar panels are generating more electricity than you’re using, then any surplus can be sold back to the National Grid via your normal electricity supply.

So by investing in a solar PV system, you’ll not only be producing FREE electricity for your home or business (consequently saving huge amounts of money for many years to come), but you’ll also be generating an additional income stream from the electricity that your PV solar panels produce, making the switch to solar power a great investment, both now and for the future.

If you’re like to switch to solar energy and benefit from all of the advantages that it brings, then why not give us a call on 0845 017 8847, or email us at sales@uksolardirect.co.uk…