What is solar power & how does it work?

The sun provides an abundant source of clean, renewable energy. This can be converted into electricity using solar photovoltaic panels, known as ‘solar PV’, installed on your roof. This electricity can power your home, save you money, and help to decarbonise grid supplied electricity.

Will new solar homes get a payment from suppliers?

New solar homes and businesses creating and exporting electricity to the grid will be guaranteed a payment from suppliers under new laws to be introduced by the government this week (Monday 10 June).

How much energy do solar panels generate a year?

Annual generation was 14 TWh in 2022 (4.3% of UK electricity consumption) and peak generation was more than 11 GW. PV panels have a capacity factor of around 10% in the UK climate. Home rooftop solar panels installed in 2022 were estimated to pay back their cost in ten to twenty years.

How much does a solar panel system cost?

Solar electricity is low carbon, renewable energy. A typical home solar panel system could save around one tonne of carbon per year, depending on where you live in the UK. That’s the equivalent of driving 3,600 miles, or from London to Bristol 30 times. The average domestic solar panel system is 3.5kWp and costs around £7,000.

Will solar power decarbonise America's power grid?

The Solar Futures Study, released by the U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) in 2021, discusses their blueprint for a zero-carbon grid and the significant role solar will play in decarbonising the country’s power grid. According to the study, 40% of the nation’s electricity has the potential to be powered by solar energy by 2035.

Can solar panels generate electricity?

Yes, it can – solar power only requires some level of daylight in order to harness the sun’s energy. That said, the rate at which solar panels generate electricity does vary depending on the amount of direct sunlight and the quality, size, number and location of panels in use.