Solar Panels
What is Solar PV?
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity. The electricity generated by the panels can be used in your home and it’s free.
How does it work ?
Put simply, the panels on the roof convert sunlight into electricity, this electricity is fed through an inverter which converts the electricity into a form where it can be used in your home.
How do I use it?
In order to use the solar panels you don’t actually need to do anything. There are no buttons to press or dials to operate. The solar panels will always generate electricity during daylight hours and this electricity will subsidise the running costs of any appliances, lighting or anything else electrical – the free electricity will be used automatically.
In order to make the most of the free electricity, consideration needs to be given to how and when you use your appliances. The solar panels will only provide a portion of the electricity required to run an appliance therefore it is recommended to only run one appliance at a time, during daylight hours of course. So, for example, run the washing machine, when that has finished, put the tumble dryer on, and when that has finished, do the ironing. That way you can maximise the quantity of free electricity used. Don’t run all the appliances at the same time!
Do the solar panels require servicing?
No, the solar panels do not require servicing. They may require cleaning but this will be very infrequent, and we will undertake this type of work. Keeping the panels clean ensures they can operate at maximum efficiency. On a two yearly basis a reading will need be taken from an electricity meter in your loft space (this meter is specific to the solar panels and is unrelated to your standard electric meter).
How does Grand Union benefit from the Solar PV?
Whilst the occupier of the property benefits through reduced electricity bills, for every unit of electricity generated (known as a kilowatt hour or kWh), we will receive a small payment. This is known as the Feed-in tariff (FITs), the payment is made by one of the energy suppliers
Do you still have a Solar PV related question?
Above are some of the most frequently asked questions, if you still have a question which has not been answered please complete the online enquiry form and our team will contact you shortly.