How Solar PV Works

Photovoltaic (PV) cells convert radiation from the sun into electricity.  A typical PV cell consists of a wafer of semi-conducting material, usually silicon, manufactured with two electrically different layers.  When sunlight hits the cell it excites the electrons within the silicon, creating an electric field across the layers and causing a flow of electricity.

1. The Solar PV modules are mounted to the roof.

2. During the day the PV cells within the modules convert sunlight into DC (Direct Current) electricity.

3. The DC electricity enters the inverter which converts the DC electricity in to AC (Alternating Current) electricity.

4. The AC electricity is then sent to the main distribution board for use in the building.

5. When more electricity is generated than is required by the house, the excess electricity will be ‘spilled' in to the local electricity grid.

The solution comprises of 3 main pieces of equipment: The Solar PV array, the inverter (the size of a shoe box which is normally placed in the loft), and a visual display to monitor how much electricity is being generated.

The installation of a Solar PV system usually takes 2-3 days. It consists of:
a) Removing the necessary tiles/slates/other
b) Fitting the railing
c) Bolting the array to the railing
d) Installing the inverter
e) Installing the fuse switch off
f) Setting up visual display
g) Cabling and wiring