HOW DO SOLAR PANELS WORK?
Solar panels, made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, absorb sunlight. These cells generate electricity when exposed to sunlight.
Many people think that solar panels need sunlight to generate electricity, this is not the case.
The sunlight knocks electrons loose in the PV cells, creating a flow of electricity. This process is called the photovoltaic effect, which converts solar energy into direct current (DC) electricity.
Since most homes and appliances run on alternating current (AC) electricity, an inverter is used to convert the DC electricity from the solar panels into AC electricity.
The converted AC electricity is then used to power your home. Any excess electricity can be sent back to the grid or stored in a solar battery for later use, depending on your setup.
Solar Panels
Also known as Photovoltaic or PV panels. Photovoltaic cells convert sunlight into electricity, within a solar panel there are many photovoltaic cells.
Battery Storage
Solar Battery storage stores the energy a solar panel system generates throughout the day. The stored energy can then be used in the evening when you need it most.
Optimisers
An optimiser allows each solar panel to to operate independently. Adding an optimiser to each panel means your system operates at its best and increases overall yield.
Home Appliances
Appliances like refrigerators, lights, washing machines, and TVs use the solar-generated power.
Inverter
An inverter converts the DC energy produced by solar panels into the AC power we use in our homes. The energy can then be stored, used or exported as AC.
Home Appliances
With a solar panel system installed at your home you can enjoy the energy the system produces. At the same time your energy bills are reduced as you use less energy.
If you install solar batteries and a smart meter you could also qualify to join the new Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
How Solar Panels Work: Efficient Energy from Light
Solar panels generate electricity by capturing light and converting it into direct current (DC) electricity. A common myth is that solar panels require sunlight or heat to function—this isn’t true. They only need light, making them effective even on cloudy days.
In a standard home solar setup, panels are usually installed on the roof to maximize exposure to daylight. For larger properties, they can be mounted on the ground using a ground-mount system or installed on expansive commercial rooftops to capture more energy.
Optimized for Peak Performance
Modern solar systems often include optimizers attached to each panel. These clever devices ensure that shading or other disruptions only affect individual panels rather than reducing the output of the entire array. The optimizers then send the DC electricity to an inverter—typically installed in your loft—where it’s transformed into AC electricity, ready to power your home.
HOW CAN YOU
Lower You Energy Bills
Making the Most of Your Energy
To maximize efficiency, surplus solar energy is stored in a battery for evening use when energy demand in your home is highest. Any unused stored energy can even be sold back to the grid, turning your solar investment into a potential income stream.
Solar Battery Storage: The Game Changer
Adding a solar battery allows you to store the energy generated during the day for use at night. This could save you up to 70% on your energy bills, giving you greater independence from the grid.
Force Charging for Even More Savings
If your energy provider offers cheaper rates during off-peak hours, you can "force charge" your solar battery during these times. This lets you use inexpensive energy during peak hours, further reducing your energy costs.