How Do Solar Panels Work?
A Beginner's Guide for UK Homeowners
Solar panels are no longer a niche solution for the environmentally conscious; they are quickly becoming a practical and popular choice for UK homeowners.
With rising energy prices and growing concerns about climate change, solar power offers a way to reduce your energy bills, minimise your carbon footprint, and even increase the value of your property.
But how exactly do solar panels work? And how do you decide if they’re the right fit for your home? In this beginner’s guide, the experts at Viable Power answer these questions in detail, covering everything from the science behind solar power to the practicalities of solar panel installation in the UK.
Whether you’re in the early stages of researching solar panel companies or looking for trusted solar panel installers in Surrey, this guide has you covered.
What Are Solar Panels and How Do They Work?
Solar panels, technically known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are devices designed to convert sunlight into electricity.
They achieve this through a process called the photovoltaic effect, which may sound complex, but is actually surprisingly simple.
When sunlight hits the surface of a solar panel, it energises electrons in the material that the panels are made from (usually silicon). These energised electrons flow through an electrical circuit, generating electricity in the form of direct current (DC).
However, DC electricity isn’t what powers your home. Most appliances and systems rely on alternating current (AC).
To convert DC into usable AC electricity, a critical component called an inverter is included in your solar panel system. This device makes the electricity generated by the solar panel compatible with your home’s electrical wiring and appliances.
Thanks to advances in technology, solar panel companies can now offer solar PV systems that adapt remarkably to environmental conditions. Even in the UK’s famously cloudy weather, modern panels are designed to capture diffuse sunlight, which means they work year-round. While their efficiency can dip by about 25% during shorter winter days, they still remain a reliable source of energy for over 500,00 UK homes.
The Role of Solar Panels in Your Home’s Energy System
Solar panels are not standalone devices; they are part of a larger energy system that integrates with your home and your distribution network operator (DNO).
When your solar PV panels produce more electricity than your household uses, the excess energy can be exported back to your DNO.
In the UK, this is where the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) comes into play. This government-backed scheme allows homeowners to earn money for the energy they contribute.
Conversely, when the panels aren’t producing enough power for your needs - such as at night - you can draw electricity from the grid, ensuring a seamless energy supply.
This interconnected system provides flexibility and potentially significant financial benefits, making solar panel installation in the UK attractive for homeowners.
Solar Panel Installation in the UK: Understanding the Process
Installing solar panels is a detailed process that requires expert assessment to ensure the best results.
Every property is unique, so a thorough survey and tailored system design are essential.
At Viable Power, we use advanced software and industry expertise to create a system that maximises efficiency and long-term savings for your home.
Your solar PV journey begins with a digital survey, where we use specialist software to assess your property. This includes analysing key factors such as energy consumption, roof orientation, and shading. Using this data, we design a bespoke system tailored to your needs, ensuring optimal performance and savings.
The Installation Process
- Scaffolding Setup – Before installation begins, scaffolding is erected to provide safe access to your roof.
- Panel Installation – Depending on your chosen system, panels are either mounted using a rail and bracket system or integrated into the roof itself.
- Electrical Work & Commissioning – Roofing and electrical work are carried out together wherever possible, followed by system commissioning by our electricians to ensure everything runs optimally.
- Final Checks & Completion – Once the installation is complete, we carry out a full commissioning process to verify compliance with UK building regulations and ensure peak performance. Finally, the scaffolding is dismantled.
It’s worth noting that, most of the time, solar panel installation in the UK will not require planning permission, as installing solar panels falls under permitted development rights.
However, if you live in a listed building or conservation area, planning permission will be necessary. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to obtain this approval before installation, but we can provide guidance on the process if needed.
Why Solar Panels Are a Smart Investment
Solar panels offer a compelling mix of financial and environmental benefits, making them an increasingly popular choice for UK homeowners.
Financially, the savings on energy bills can be substantial. Greenmatch suggests that a typical 4kW system could save you between £440 and £1,005 per year - although some Viable Power customers have reported much higher savings!
Your actual savings all depend on the specification of your solar panel system and your energy usage. Working with trusted solar panel companies ensures you get the most out of your investment, from selecting the right system to efficient installation.
Add to this the potential earnings from the Smart Export Guarantee, and you can break even on the cost of installation within a matter of years.
Beyond these direct savings, solar panel installation in the UK can also enhance your property’s value. Studies have shown that homes with solar panels are often more attractive to buyers, as they represent long-term energy savings and environmental responsibility. According to MoneySavingExpert, this can increase your home’s value by between 2% and 14%.
From an environmental perspective, solar panels significantly reduce your carbon footprint. By generating clean electricity, you contribute to a greener grid and help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This aligns with the UK’s broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Looking For Top Solar Panel Installers in Surrey? Contact Viable Power
By harnessing the power of the sun to generate energy, solar PV systems provide a modern solution to two of the most pressing issues facing homeowners: rising energy costs and environmental sustainability.
Solar panel installation in the UK offers a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly way to power your home - especially if you live in areas of Surrey such as Virginia Water.
Working with trusted local solar panel companies like Viable Power ensures you receive a system that is tailored to your needs and installed by qualified experts.
Contact our team today to take the first step to a greener, more sustainable, and financially secure future with solar power.
