Solar PV
Solar PV stands for "Solar Photovoltaic." It is a technology that converts sunlight into electricity by using semiconductor materials, typically crystalline silicon or thin-film solar cells. Solar PV systems are designed to capture sunlight and convert it directly into electrical energy through a process known as the photovoltaic effect.
Solar PV systems consist of several photovoltaic cells built into a solar module,
of which many are installed upon a roof. The modules are connected via DC
cabling and feed back to inverters which transform the DC power to AC
electricity ready for the property to consume.
The generated power is metered
and used as the primary source of power to the building, with any excess
demand being topped up by the national grid, any excess supply of solar
power is exported back to the grid.
With climate change continuing to manifest globally through devastating floods,
droughts, and wildfires, the need for solar PV systems increases. In Britain,
renewables have generated more power than coal and other fossil fuels. A
decade ago, just 3% of the country's electricity was generated from wind and
solar. This year, renewables have supplied 37% of electricity compared to 35%
for fossil fuels.
​
Unlike other energy sources, solar energy does not produce pollution nor emit
harmful greenhouse gases. By switching to solar power, you can directly
reduce CO2 emissions, help preserve valuable fossil fuels, and ensure a safe
and liveable planet for future generations.