A solar electric system is commonly referred to as a Solar Generator. It converts daylight into electricity by a solid-state process it is silent and pollution free. Read more about solar-pv.

Yes, the most efficient solar panels at present are 'Grade A' mono- crystalline panels. Polycrystalline panels are still widely used however they are less efficient. The alternative option is a thin-film solution, which is more flexible but less efficient.

Most PV panels are installed as an array. The array produces DC electricity (Battery Quality) when exposed to daylight. The DC electricity is usually fed into an Inverter which converts the electricity into AC (Mains grid quality electricity) enabling it to be used within the building or exported to the grid.

PV tiles are a type of Building Integrated PV (BIPV). They can be used to directly replace standard roof tiles. BIPV like solar tiles are usually more expensive than modules but can be very cost effective where they are used to replace other building materials.

PV glazing can be used to replace conventional building materials, for example the glass roof of a conservatory. PV glazing functions to provide shelter, shading and electricity in one material. Like glazing, solar cladding can also be used in the place of other materials and can be made bespoke in order to fit the features of your site and electricity demand. Solar PV could be a good option if you are considering replacing part of a roof or building facade.

In some cases solar materials may work out cheaper than conventional building materials or even offset their cost. If your potential solar site is new build, it is worth considering whether you could build electricity generation into the actual fabric of the building

Solar PV generators and solar hot water heating systems are commonly confused, which is perhaps understandable given that both can be described as 'solar power' and use roof-mounted modules/panels. However, the two technologies actually bear little resemblance apart from the fact that they both harness the suns energy directly. In practical terms, the key difference is that PV generates electricity; whereas solar water heating produces thermal energy. (It is more cost-effective to use solar thermal for heating than PV.)

By installing a PV system, occupiers generate their own 'green' electricity, not only reducing electricity bills but helping to offset carbon emissions. PV plays a vital role in the contribution of 'sustainable development'.

Key advantages of installing this technology are:

• Emission free.
• Noise free.
• Require minimal maintenance (no moving parts).
• Can be integrated, or mounted on an existing building structure.
• Minimal visual intrusion.

Is the site south-facing? The closer to due south the arrays are installed the better as this means maximum exposure to daylight & the solar irradiation which stimulates the arrays and maximises on their electrical output. Solar Arrays commonly installed to other orientations - from east through to west. However, annual output is reduced if the array faces significantly away from south. The ideal is between South east and South West. They should also be angled between 30 & 45 degrees from the horizontal in the UK however vertical and horizontal are acceptable with a reduced output.

Is the site free from shading? The effectiveness of a PV array depends on how much sunlight it receives. Solar PV works in diffused sunlight as well as direct sunlight, but if part or all of a solar array is shaded during daylight hours, e.g. by trees or buildings, the amount of electricity it can generate is reduced.

How much space is needed? There are many different ways of mounting PV. Generally, a 1kWp system requires approximately 8m2 of roof space. If there is nowhere to mount your PV on a roof then we recommend a ground mounted PV system.

Will I need planning permission? Recent changes to planning guidance mean you do not have to seek a planning approval for solar systems less than 200mm above the roof. However, some local authorities will insist on planning consent being gained prior to installation, particularly if your potential site is in a protected area or involves a listed building. Always check before going ahead as retrospective permissions can be difficult to acquire.

Solar energy is converted into electricity and fed into the national grid. Efficient, reliable, high power inverters form the heart of any PV system. Inverters convert direct current (DC) electricity created by the photovoltaics into alternating current (AC) electricity which is used in our buildings. These systems are known as grid connect. If there is no access to the national grid the electricity is stored in batteries and these are referred to as off-grid systems.

Please note that permission to connect to the grid must be obtained from your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before the system is turned on. Your installer will assist with making this application, though many DNO's requirements are met by using a 'G83/1' approved inverter.

There is no flat rate for a solar PV system. As a rough guide, a 1kWp grid connected system will cost in the region of £7,000 (inclusive of installation) and a 2kWp system would be around £12,000. A particular advantage of solar PV, even over other types of renewable energy systems, is that running costs are very low, it requires no fossil fuel to run and, since there are no moving parts (unless a tracking device is used), very little maintenance.

The energy generated by your system may not match the pattern of your demand for electricity. If your generation exceeds your demand then the surplus can by exported to the grid and it is possible to sell this to your energy supplier. A PV system will incorporate a generation meter as standard which means you can get paid for the energy you generate.

The amount of revenue from your PV system is set by the Clean Energy Cash Back Scheme at 41.3 pence per unit generated. You may also use this free energy which means you buy less from you supplier. Any surplus energy is exported to the grid for an additional 3pence per unit exported. It is always more cost-effective, and system efficient, to use the electricity you generate on-site. As a Guide the average semi detached house in the UK can earn up to £1,200.00 per year index linked for 25 years

The Kyocera modules which Dulas supply come with the following warranty:

• 90% of specified power output after 10 years (at standard test conditions).
• 80% of specified power output after 20 years (at standard test conditions).

In addition Dulas Solar guarantee the system free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for a period of two years.

Homeowner: If you are interested in finding out approximate costs for your development, please fill in the site survey form available on the website or call to request one.

Commercial and public: If you have a large development which requires solar such as a school, hospital, leisure centre or office, please call a member of the solar team to discuss. It is helpful if you can provide us with roof dimensions and CAD plans for the development.

Save Money With Solar,
Priory House,
Twiselton Court,
Dartford.
DA1 2EN

Tel: 01322 284555

Solar PV installations are designed to work in varying light conditions from dawn to dusk. The invertor has a clever piece of electronic circuitry that maximises the energy production according to varying light levels throughout the day. It also disconnects the system from the mains electricity at night and reconnects it the next morning.

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