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Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels are designed to absorb the sun's energy and then use that energy to power your home or office building. They use a sophisticated structure of silicon wafers which react when light photons hit them and become chemically unstable. This reaction releases electrons in one direction and protons in the opposite direction which eventually leads to an electrical current that can be then fed into domestic or commercial uses. Solar PV panels are already used commonly in calculators and watches and now the larger panels are becoming very popular among people who are looking for alternative methods of powering their homes and office buildings. Several large organisations are big supporters of solar PV, including the National Grid that has been getting some of its power from solar photovoltaic panels. The Planning Considerations of Solar Photovoltaic One can install solar photovoltaic panels on the roof of their home as well as along one of the outer walls or as standalone units. Before setting off on the installation process, it is essential to check with the local authority regarding planning restrictions. Most local authorities in England allow solar PV panels to be installed on residential roofs and as standalone cells as long as certain criteria are met (mainly that the panels are not attached onto listed buildings or within conservation zones). Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, however, are still working out their local legislation. For residents of these areas it is therefore advisable to consult the local planning authorities before installing the solar systems. Why Use Solar Photovoltaics? There are several good reasons to use solar PV cells. One important benefit is the money saved on electrical bills. Another important benefit is the reduction in carbon emissions thanks to using clean energy. Solar photovoltaic cells cut around 1.2 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year. Since the user generates the electricity directly from the sun, they are not dependent on the national grid, making them less prone to power cuts. Although solar power is effective in its own right, solar panels are highly appropriate for remote locations where the grid has no coverage (such as remote farms or research facilities). How to Install Solar Photovoltaic It is not recommended to try and install solar PV panels as a DIY installation. It is important to hire a professional installation crew that has been certified by the Low Carbon Buildings Programme. Solar PV cells are heavy and need to be attached to a specifically designed support system. The support structure is constructed before the panels can be attached and is mounted on the roof. Professional solar PV installers will also know what the local safety and electrical codes are and will make sure that the solar PV system complies with all the prevailing local regulations. With the increasing public awareness to global warming and climate change, there is substantially more focus placed on finding energy generation options that are not reliant upon fossil fuels. Of the alternative energy options currently available (wave, wind, hydrogen, solar, nuclear), solar power is considered to be the most cost effective and with solar panels dropping in price due to competition, this technology is likely to become ever more popular.
Article Source: http://www.earnbonus.com/articles
Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes content about central heating, plumbers, Harrow boiler underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by consulting on efficient heating.
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