Frequently Asked Questions

Jump to an Answer:
Are solar panels worth it?
How do solar panels work?
How much do solar panels cost?
Where is best to install solar power?
Can solar power be stored?
Are solar power batteries worth it?
Can solar power run a house?
Can solar power charge an electric car?
Will solar power work on cloudy days?
How does solar power help the environment?
Which solar power company is the best?

 

Are solar panels worth it?

When people think about energy-efficient upgrades for their homes, solar panels are often at the top of the list. But are solar panels really worth it? Based on countless customer consultations, I’ve found that they usually are. Not only do they make your home more energy-efficient, but they also reduce utility bills and can even help you earn extra income. There are a couple of things to keep in mind though. For instance, a south-facing roof is ideal for solar panel installation since it maximizes efficiency. While you can still install them on roofs that don’t face south, they’ll operate better with that orientation. Living further south also tends to boost savings since the panels generate more energy with more sunlight. Assuming your roof isn’t blocked by shade from trees or other obstructions, solar panels are a great investment. One major advantage is that you can sell surplus energy back to suppliers through programs like the Smart Export Guarantee or platforms like Social Energy. Additionally, having a solid solar panel system can increase your home's value, as energy efficiency is becoming increasingly desirable to buyers. Start your solar journey today!

 

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels function by harnessing sunlight to generate electricity. Inside these panels, there are photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are made of semiconductor materials. When sunlight hits these cells, it excites electrons, creating a flow of electricity. This direct current (DC) electricity then moves to an inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity, suitable for powering your home appliances. A common question people ask is, “Do solar panels work on cloudy days?” The short answer is yes, but they produce less energy compared to sunny days. Even on overcast days, visible light is sufficient to activate the photoelectric effect, ensuring that your panels continue to generate power. While they won’t match peak performance on sunny days, they still provide reliable energy year-round. Get in touch to find out more.

 

How much do solar panels cost?

When it comes to solar panels, the cost can vary significantly based on factors like quality, efficiency, and power output. Generally speaking, higher-quality panels tend to come with a higher price tag, but they often deliver better long-term performance. Cheaper options might seem appealing upfront, but they may not offer the durability or efficiency you’d expect. Most homeowners aim to install enough panels to cover their average electricity usage, typically around 3,800 kWh annually. To achieve this, you might consider purchasing ten panels, each with a 400 kW capacity. Once you’ve determined your energy needs, you can explore different brands and models to find the right balance between cost and performance. Want a quote? Get in touch.

 

Where is best to install solar power?

The ideal spot for installing solar panels is on the south-facing portion of an unobstructed roof. This orientation provides the best exposure to sunlight, allowing your panels to generate electricity at maximum efficiency. Panels can still work on roofs that face other directions, but a south-facing setup is generally the most effective. Why does a south-facing roof make such a difference? In the UK, south-facing areas receive more sunlight throughout the day, which means your panels can capture more energy. The more light your panels absorb, the more electricity they produce. Avoiding shade from trees or tall buildings is equally important, as shadows can drastically reduce the efficiency of your solar system. For more information, reach out to our team today.

 

Can solar power be stored?

Yes, solar power can absolutely be stored, provided you have the right equipment. A solar power storage battery is essential for collecting surplus energy generated during the day and making it available for use at night or during cloudy weather. Without a battery, any unused energy is typically lost, which is why batteries are crucial for maximizing the benefits of solar power. For years, people have wondered whether solar power can be stored. This curiosity stems from the desire to use solar energy even when the sun isn’t shining. Batteries allow you to store excess energy and sell it back to the grid through platforms like Social Energy, turning your solar system into both a savings and earning tool. Start your solar journey here.

 

Are solar power batteries worth it?

Over the past few years, solar power batteries have become increasingly popular, but if you're still on the fence about installing one, you might wonder if they're worth the investment. The straightforward answer is yes—solar power batteries are definitely worth considering, though the benefits depend on your energy usage habits. These batteries store excess energy generated during sunny periods and make it available when you need it, such as at night or during bad weather. This is particularly useful if you're away during the day and want to avoid wasting energy. According to surveys, 65% of users installed solar batteries primarily to ensure consistent power availability, while another 20% did so to save money. Additionally, solar batteries can connect to grid-trading platforms like Social Energy, enabling you to sell excess energy back to the grid. This opens up opportunities to save and earn money on your electricity usage. Talk to our team to learn more about solar batteries.

 

Can solar power run a house?

Many people considering solar power often wonder, “Can solar power run a house?” It’s a valid question since no one wants to invest in a system that doesn’t fully meet their energy needs. The good news is that yes, solar power can indeed run a house—and even charge electric vehicles! However, the extent to which solar power meets your household needs depends on your energy consumption. Larger households with high energy demands might need to supplement their solar-generated electricity with grid power for certain tasks, like boiling water or running the washing machine. For smaller households with moderate energy usage, solar power can usually cover almost all of their electricity needs. It’s worth noting that solar PV systems aren’t designed to power or heat boilers, so you’ll still need some form of gas supply for heating. More questions? Give us a call today.

 

Can solar power charge an electric car?

With the rise of both solar panels and electric vehicles (EVs), many homeowners are curious about combining the two. A common question is, “Can solar power charge an electric car?” The answer is yes! Linking solar power with an EV charging point offers significant cost savings and environmental benefits. By using solar energy to charge your EV, you reduce reliance on the grid and lower your carbon footprint. To charge your car efficiently, you’ll need a solar power storage battery. This allows you to store energy generated during the day and use it to charge your car overnight. Without a battery, you’d need to charge your car during daylight hours, which could be inconvenient depending on your schedule. Learn more about solar power’s capabilities.

 

Will solar power work on cloudy days?

One of the most frequently asked questions about solar power is whether it works on cloudy days. After all, the term “solar power” implies a reliance on sunlight. So, can solar panels generate electricity when it’s overcast? The short answer is yes—they do! Solar panels rely on photons, which can be stimulated by any visible light. This means they work just as well on cloudy days as they do on sunny ones, though they’ll generate less energy compared to clear skies. On bright, sunny days, photons move faster, creating more electricity. However, even on cloudy days, your panels will still contribute to your energy needs. To find out how solar power can work for you, speak to our friendly team.

 

How does solar power help the environment?

Solar power plays a crucial role in reducing our carbon footprint by providing clean, renewable energy. Unlike traditional energy sources like coal-fired power plants, solar panels produce zero greenhouse gas emissions during operation. In fact, solar energy has been recognized as the greenest method of heating and powering homes in terms of carbon emissions. This shift is driving countries like the UK to phase out gas-powered plants and shut down coal facilities entirely. Arrange your installation here.

 

Which solar power company is the best?

Project Solar UK proudly holds the title of the UK’s top solar power provider, thanks to our exceptional customer service and outstanding reviews. Our Trustpilot page is directly linked to our website, ensuring complete transparency. We take pride in our pre-sales and aftercare processes, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see our efforts translate into satisfied customers. Our installations feature SunPower Maxeon solar panels, widely regarded as the best on the market. Partnering with SunPower makes perfect sense, given their reputation as the world’s leading solar panel manufacturer. When you choose Project Solar UK, you’re getting the best service, support, materials, and craftsmanship. It’s truly the best of everything! Ready to start your solar journey? Get in touch with us today.