Answers to the big questions

Here at The Low Carbon Energy Company, we understand that things can get a little confusing when it comes to learning about renewable energy, so we’ve put together a list of ‘FAQs’ to help you answer those big questions:

1. What size Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panel do I need?
A typical installation in the UK is a 2 to 4 kWp system. You will need to consult a solar PV installer like us to find out what type of PV system and what size would be most suitable for your needs.

2. Can I take solar panels with me if I move house?
If your installation has been funded by a Low Carbon Building Programme grant, the system must be in use at the specified address for at least five years from the date of the completion certificate. Please note that the Low Carbon Buildings Programme is now closed to all new applications. Please see the Low Carbon Buildings Programme website for more information.

3. Don’t solar panels only work in hotter countries than the UK?
No.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels will generate electricity anywhere in the UK as long as there is daylight. The light does not have to be direct sunlight so solar PV panels will work on overcast days although their power output will be reduced. Typically solar photovoltaic collectors will produce about 850kWh/kWp.

Solar water heating panels will heat water almost every day of the year and will heat water to a significantly high temperature in direct sunlight.

4. Will a ground source heat pump be able to provide enough heat for my whole house?
With proper planning and selection of the most appropriate unit, most properties should have sufficient heating and hot water without the need for auxiliary units.

Some heat pumps have internal immersion heaters to provide top-up heat for space-heating and hot water. It is preferable to use systems designed so that these are not required.

5. How are solar hot water panels and photovoltaics different?
There are two ways in which to harvest the sun’s energy via panels on the roof – solar thermal (solar water heating systems) and photovoltaics (solar PV).

Solar water heating uses thermal energy radiated from the sun and converts it to hot water. A typical domestic system will be around 2-4m2 in size. This should provide around a third of hot water requirements for the average household per year.

Solar PV utilises the light from the sun and converts this directly to electricity. A typical domestic system would be around 2.5kWp (kilowatt-peak), or 850kWh/kWp (kilowatt-hours per kilowatt-peak).

6. How much maintenance do the panels in a solar thermal system require?
Solar thermal systems require very little maintenance. An annual check by the owner and a more thorough check every 3 to 5 years should be sufficient. If debris such as leaves do fall on the collector then it may affect performance, so these will need to be swept off.

For a free, no obligation quote, contact us today on 08456 808 963.