How do solar panels work? A complete homeowners guide
Thanks to modern advancements in solar technology, it’s now possible to generate clean electricity right from the comfort of your own home. This can be achieved by installing solar panels which once completed, will require little intervention and maintenance.
This easy guide will walk you through everything you need to know about solar panels – how they work, their benefits, and what to expect when you decide to make the switch to solar energy.
The solar story so far
The UK's solar power story began around 2010. The government introduced the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) at that time, a program that paid homeowners for the electricity generated by their solar panels. This incentive made solar energy much more attractive, leading to a rise in rooftop installations. As solar technology advanced, the cost of panels decreased, which allowed the government to slowly reduce FIT payments. The program eventually closed to new enrolment in 2019.
Even though the FIT scheme is no longer running, homeowners can still earn money through the Smart Export Guarantee. This scheme allows you to get paid for any surplus electricity your solar panels produce and send it back to the national grid.
Today solar energy plays a crucial role in the UK's energy supply. We now have over fourteen gigawatts of installed solar capacity, with a generous portion coming from rooftop installations. This represents a remarkable transformation from 2006 when the UK had little solar capacity.
Looking beyond the UK, Solar's growth is a European success story. Recently, solar became the largest source of electricity in the EU, generating 11% of the region's electricity and surpassing coal for the first time.
How do solar panels convert sunlight into electricity?
Solar panels, also known as Solar PV, are like mini power plants designed to harness the sun's energy and convert it into usable electricity for your home. But how exactly does this process happen?
The secret lies in the fascinating photovoltaic effect. It might sound complicated, but the basic idea is quite simple. Solar panels consist of tiny cells made of chemically treated silicon. When sunlight hits these cells, it knocks electrons loose, creating a flow of electricity.
Each solar panel is carefully constructed to maximise this energy conversion process. The photovoltaic cells are sandwiched between protective layers and encased in a sturdy frame, ensuring durability.
From sunlight to usable energy
Now that we know how individual solar panels work, let's zoom out and look at the complete solar panel system that powers your home.
The process starts with the solar panels capturing sunlight and converting it into direct current (DC) electricity. However, most household appliances run on alternating current (AC) electricity. That's where the inverter comes in, acting as a translator converting the DC electricity from the panels into usable AC electricity for your home.
The electricity then flows through your home's wiring, powering your lights, appliances, and everything in between. Further to this, if your system generates more electricity than you're using, the excess power can be sent back to the grid through a process called net metering. This means you can earn credits on your energy bill as part of the smart export guarantee mentioned above.
The top benefits of home solar panels
Going solar is a smart decision and a commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Let’s explore the ways solar panels can benefit you and your home.
Financial benefits
One of the most appealing aspects of solar panels is their potential to cut your electricity bills. In some cases, you might even oust them completely. This translates to significant savings over the lifespan of your system, which can be up to around 25 years. As a side note, our solar panels come with a 20-year performance warranty, for great peace of mind.
But the financial benefits don't stop there. Solar panels can provide a solid return on investment, increasing your property value and making your home more attractive to potential buyers. Plus, you may be eligible for generous tax credits and incentives, further boosting your savings.
Environmental benefits
By harnessing the sun’s power, you're reducing your reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing your carbon footprint. Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that helps combat climate change and protects our planet for future generations. Unlike finite fossil fuels, sunlight is abundant and readily available, offering a limitless source of energy that doesn't deplete the Earth's natural resources.
Energy independence
Solar panels give you greater control over your energy supply, and with the addition of solar battery storage, you can even power your home and charge your electric vehicle during the night from energy stored during the day. Tesla Powerwall batteries can power your home during a power cut, further reducing your reliance on the grid and granting you around 11 hours of power without the need for electricity from the grid.
What to expect during installation and beyond
When considering fitting solar panels to your home, here's a glimpse into the installation process and what you can do to maintain a healthy solar power system.
Assessment
This is to evaluate your roof's suitability, considering factors like roof orientation, pitch, shading, and structural integrity. It also determines the optimal system size for your energy consumption needs, calculating potential energy production and cost savings. This includes a site survey and a detailed analysis of your electricity bills.
Design and planning
Once the design is finalised, including the number of panels, inverter location, and wiring layout, the installation process typically takes a few days to complete. This phase also involves creating a detailed project plan with timelines and material procurement.
Scaffolding
This is for all roof-mounted solar panel work so that they can be safely accessed. This ensures the installers can work efficiently and securely, minimising risks and preventing damage to your property.
Mounts
The mount will be the first thing attached to your roof, securely fastened to the rafters or structural supports, to serve as the base to your array and enable tilting to get the maximum amount of sunlight possible. This involves precise measurements and drilling to ensure a stable and long-lasting installation.
Solar panels
All panels will then be tightly secured in place onto the mounted racking system, completing the array installation. This includes aligning the panels for optimal sunlight capture and ensuring they are properly spaced and fastened according to manufacturer specifications.
Wiring
The panels can then be wired in series or parallel, our installer will assess and communicate which would be best for your needs, based on the system design and shading considerations. Series wiring increases voltage, while parallel wiring increases amperage.
Inverter installation
The inverter will be installed in a suitable location, typically near the electrical panel, and connected to the solar panel wiring and the home's electrical system. This crucial component ensures the generated power is usable by your appliances. The panels will be connected to the inverter, which converts DC electricity to AC electricity.
Electrical connection
The system is connected to your home's electrical panel, often requiring a dedicated circuit breaker. This step involves integrating the solar power system with your existing electrical infrastructure.
System testing and commissioning
After installation, the system undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its functioning correctly and safely. This includes checking voltage, current, and power output, as well as verifying the inverter's performance and the overall system efficiency.
System activation and handover
Once all tests and approvals are completed, the system is activated, and you receive a comprehensive handover, including system operation instructions, maintenance guidelines, and warranty information.
Easy maintenance
Solar panels only require modest maintenance. Occasional cleaning to remove debris and an annual inspection is usually all that's needed to keep your system running efficiently for many years to come.
A solar panel system inspection involves several key steps. First, a visual examination checks for panel damage like cracks or debris and confirms the mounting system's integrity. Next, the electrical components are assessed, verifying secure wiring, proper inverter function, and measuring voltage and current output. Finally, the system's performance is evaluated, comparing current output to expected levels.
Debunking common solar panel myths
Despite the growing popularity of solar, some misconceptions still linger. Let's have a closer look and dispel these common myths.
Myth 1: Solar panels don't work in cloudy climates
While direct sunlight maximises solar panel output, cloudy days don't render them ineffective. Modern panels use advanced semiconductor materials capable of absorbing diffused light - the sunlight scattered by clouds.
This means even in overcast conditions, the photovoltaic effect still occurs, generating electricity. This is beneficial in regions with variable weather, ensuring consistent, albeit reduced, energy production throughout the year.
Myth 2: Solar panels only work on a south facing roof
While a south-facing orientation does typically maximise energy production, advancements in solar technology have made east and west-facing installations highly viable. East-facing panels capture strong morning sunlight, while west-facing panels excel in the afternoon, often aligning better with peak household energy consumption.
Modern solar systems are designed to optimise performance even in less ideal orientations, and factors like panel tilt, local climate, and the overall system design play significant roles in determining energy output. Therefore, even if your roof doesn't face south, solar panels can still be a valuable investment for generating clean energy and reducing your electricity bills.
Myth 3: Solar panels are too expensive
Solar has decreased in cost significantly in recent years, making it more affordable than ever. Within the last decade alone (2015 – 2025) solar panel prices have dropped by around 70%. With financing options including solar panel grants, UK tax credits, and the potential for long-term savings, solar can be a wise investment that pays for itself over time.
Myth 4: Solar panels will damage my roof
Professional solar installers such as 21 Degrees take great care to maintain the integrity of your roof. Modern mounting systems are designed to distribute weight evenly and minimise penetrations. Furthermore, flashing and sealants are used to prevent water ingress. In many cases, solar panels can even function as a protective barrier, shielding your roof from harsh weather conditions and UV radiation, potentially extending its lifespan.
The bright future of solar: innovations and advancements
The solar industry is constantly evolving, with modern technologies and innovations emerging all the time. This means even greater efficiency, affordability, and accessibility for homeowners like you.
From advancements in panel technology to breakthroughs in battery storage, the future of solar is bright. As more people embrace this clean energy source, we can collectively contribute to a healthier planet and a more sustainable future.
Take charge of your energy future with solar
Solar panels offer a compelling combination of financial, environmental, and lifestyle benefits. They're a smart investment that can save you money, reduce your carbon footprint, and give you greater control over your energy supply. If you're ready to explore the possibilities of bespoke solar for your home, we encourage you to reach out to us here at 21 Degrees.
Change the way you think about energy. Request a quote with us today and unlock a brighter, more sustainable, and more efficient future for your home.
