How Do Photovoltaic Panels Work
How Do Photovoltaic Panels Work? A Complete Guide for UK Property Owners
With the UK’s ongoing commitment to reducing carbon emissions and increasing energy efficiency in the built environment, the adoption of renewable energy technologies is more important than ever. Among these, photovoltaic (PV) panels—commonly referred to as solar panels—have become a popular choice for landlords, property managers, and businesses aiming to lower energy costs and improve their sustainability credentials.
But how do photovoltaic panels actually work? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the science behind PV panels, explore their benefits for UK properties, and explain how integrating them can support compliance with current legislation—helping you make informed decisions for your property portfolio.
What Are Photovoltaic Panels?
Photovoltaic panels are devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity. Unlike solar thermal panels, which use sunlight to heat water, PV panels generate electrical power that can be used to run appliances, lighting, and even feed into the National Grid.
PV panels are typically mounted on rooftops or other sunny locations and are made up of multiple solar cells, usually constructed from silicon. Each cell acts as a miniature power generator, and when many are connected together, they form a powerful and efficient energy source.
The Science Behind Photovoltaic Panels
1. The Photovoltaic Effect
At the heart of every solar panel is the photovoltaic effect—a process discovered in 1839 by French physicist Edmond Becquerel. This effect refers to the creation of voltage (and therefore electric current) in a material when it is exposed to light.
2. How Solar Cells Convert Sunlight into Electricity
Each solar cell is made from two layers of silicon, a semiconductor material. One layer is treated to have a positive charge (p-type), and the other a negative charge (n-type). When sunlight hits the cell, photons (light particles) knock electrons loose from the silicon atoms. These free electrons are then driven by the electric field created between the two layers, generating a flow of electricity.
The process can be summarised in four steps:
1. Absorption of sunlight: Photons from sunlight strike the surface of the solar cell.
2. Generation of electron-hole pairs: The energy from the photons frees electrons from atoms within the silicon layers.
3. Separation of charges: The built-in electric field at the junction between the p-type and n-type silicon drives electrons towards the negative side and holes towards the positive side.
4. Flow of current: Metal contacts on the top and bottom of the cell collect the electrons, creating an electric current that can be used externally.
3. From DC to AC: The Role of the Inverter
The electricity generated by PV panels is direct current (DC), but most UK homes and businesses use alternating current (AC). To make the solar power usable, an inverter is installed to convert DC into AC, seamlessly integrating the solar-generated electricity with your property’s existing electrical system.
Types of Photovoltaic Panels
There are several types of PV panels available, each with their own benefits:
– Monocrystalline: Made from a single crystal structure; highly efficient and space-saving.
– Polycrystalline: Made from multiple silicon crystals; slightly less efficient but more affordable.
– Thin-film: Lightweight and flexible; ideal for unconventional surfaces but generally lower in efficiency.
The best choice depends on your property’s roof space, budget, and energy needs.
Benefits of Photovoltaic Panels for UK Properties
1. Reduced Energy Bills
By generating your own electricity, you can significantly cut your reliance on grid-supplied power, leading to substantial savings on energy bills—especially important given the volatility of UK energy prices.
2. Lower Carbon Footprint
PV panels generate clean, renewable energy, helping you reduce your property’s carbon emissions and contribute to the UK’s net zero targets.
3. Enhanced EPC Ratings
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a legal requirement for most UK properties. Installing PV panels can improve your property’s EPC rating, making it more attractive to tenants and buyers, and helping you comply with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
4. Potential for Income Generation
Through schemes such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can earn money by exporting surplus electricity back to the National Grid.
5. Increased Property Value
Properties with solar panels are often more desirable, as they promise lower running costs and improved sustainability credentials.
Photovoltaic Panels and UK Compliance
At Eco Approach Ltd, we understand that compliance is a top priority for landlords and property managers. Integrating PV panels can support your compliance strategy in several ways:
– Meeting MEES Requirements: From April 2020, all privately rented properties in England and Wales must have an EPC rating of E or above. PV panels can help you achieve or exceed this standard.
– Supporting Future Legislation: The UK government has signalled that energy efficiency standards will tighten in the coming years. Investing in solar now can future-proof your properties.
– Demonstrating Corporate Responsibility: For businesses, installing PV panels is an excellent way to showcase your commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
What’s Involved in Installing PV Panels?
1. Site Assessment and Design
A qualified assessor will evaluate your property to determine the best location, orientation, and type of PV system. Factors such as roof angle, shading, and structural integrity are all considered.
2. Installation
Professional engineers will install the panels, inverter, and necessary wiring. Most residential installations can be completed within a few days, with minimal disruption.
3. Certification and Connection
Once installed, your system must be certified to meet UK standards (such as the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, MCS). Your installer will also arrange for the system to be connected to the grid if you wish to export surplus power.
4. Ongoing Maintenance
PV panels require minimal maintenance—typically just occasional cleaning and periodic inspections to ensure optimal performance.
Common Questions About PV Panels
Do PV panels work in the UK’s climate?
Yes. While the UK may not be the sunniest country, modern PV panels are efficient enough to generate electricity even on cloudy days. The key is daylight, not direct sunlight.
Will I need planning permission?
Most domestic PV installations are considered ‘permitted development’ and do not require planning permission, but there are exceptions (e.g., listed buildings or conservation areas).
How long do PV panels last?
Most panels come with a 25-year performance warranty, but they often continue generating electricity for much longer.
Partnering with Eco Approach Ltd for Compliance and Sustainability
Eco Approach Ltd is committed to supporting landlords, property managers, and businesses across the UK in achieving compliance and improving energy efficiency. By integrating photovoltaic panels with our comprehensive compliance services—including EPCs, electrical testing, and fire risk assessments—you can ensure your properties are not only legally compliant but also future-proofed for sustainability.
We coordinate qualified engineers and assessors nationwide, delivering consistent, reliable results at scale. Whether you manage a single property or a large portfolio, Eco Approach Ltd is your trusted partner for ongoing compliance management.
Conclusion
Photovoltaic panels offer a practical, effective, and increasingly affordable way to reduce energy costs, lower carbon emissions, and support compliance in the UK’s built environment. By understanding how PV panels work and their role in property compliance, landlords and property managers can make informed decisions that benefit both their bottom line and the planet.
Ready to explore how solar power can work for your property? [Contact Eco Approach Ltd today](https://ecoapproach.co.uk/contact) for expert advice and a seamless path to compliance and sustainability.
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Discover how photovoltaic (solar) panels work, their benefits for UK properties, and how they support compliance. Learn more with Eco Approach Ltd’s expert guide.