Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels

Solar power works by converting light from the sun into electricity. This can be done using photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, which are the most common method for home solar power systems.

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If you are looking for advice on installing solar panels and want to know the best set up for your home, please do get in touch. We are here to help and advise you in making the right decision for you.

Here's a simplified overview of how PV Solar panels work:

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    Solar Panels

    Solar panels consist of a large number of smaller units called photovoltaic cells. These cells are made of two layers of semi-conducting materials, often silicon. When sunlight hits the photovoltaic cells, it excites the electrons, causing them to move and create an electrical current.

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    DC to AC Conversion

    The electrical current generated by the solar cells is direct current (DC). Most homes and businesses use alternating current (AC), so the DC electricity is passed through an inverter to convert it to usable AC electricity.

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    Electricity Use

    The converted electricity is then sent to your home's electrical panel where it's distributed to the electrical devices in your home.

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    Connection to the Grid

    Many solar power systems are connected to the electric grid. When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home needs, that excess power is fed back into the grid. This is why you might see your electricity meter spinning backwards on a sunny day. In many places, you can receive a credit from your utility company for this excess electricity.

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    Storage in Batteries

    For off-grid solar systems or for added resiliency, solar energy can be stored in batteries for use when the solar panels are not producing electricity, such as at night or during power outages.

PV Solar Panels

How can you claim Smart Export Guarantee?

Solar panels on roof

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK government obligation that came into effect on 1 January 2020. It requires licensed electricity suppliers to offer a tariff and make payment to small-scale low-carbon generators for electricity exported to the National Grid, providing certain criteria are met.
First, ensure you are eligible for the SEG. You need to have an installed solar PV system, wind turbine, hydro, micro combined heat and power (CHP), or anaerobic digestion system with a capacity of up to 5MW, or up to 50kW for Micro-CHP. Your installation must also meet relevant standards (MCS certified or equivalent), and you should have a smart meter or export meter capable of reporting half-hourly readings.

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