The world is always moving forward, looking for new ways to conserve energy and safeguard the environment. Solar panels are one of the century’s most significant innovations. They enable us to use clean, renewable energy in our homes and offices. The improvement in the green side of technology is reducing energy usage and is leading to the switch to solar. Aside from being ecologically beneficial, it can save you significant money in the long term following a one-time purchase. So is solar one of the Renewable Energy Best Buys, or should you consider an alternative, Voltage Optimisation?
Solar Panels
Installing solar panels is an ever-growing trend. A report in 2020 stated that there were nearly 1 million UK homes with a solar installation.
Although this figure is not high as a percentage, the growth of electricity production from residential installations is staggering.
Solar panels generated only one megawatt of electricity in England in 2008. Solar panels were responsible for an astounding 11,730 megawatts by 2020.
House Structure and Suitability
Your roof must be able to sustain the weight of a solar panel. The roof structure is critical to stop a collapse and causing an accident. It is beneficial to consider your roof’s warranty, if it has one, and ensure that it is compatible with the guarantee of the solar panels that you will install.
A feasible location on your rooftop is required for the solar panel to fit. Solar panels vary in size, but the minimum required area is often around 20 square metres.
Nothing should be in the way of the sun and the solar panels to ensure the best performance. As neighbouring infrastructure may obscure sunlight, it is best to check it first. You can also install a solar panel so it faces the sun, for the best efficiency, within reason.
Finally, take into account the rooftop’s orientation. Rooftops facing south are more exposed to the sun than roofs facing other directions. As a result, solar panels are best suited to homes facing south, southwest, or southeast.
Climate
Solar panels, as the name implies, require maximum exposure to sunlight to perform optimally. PV panels work best in areas with little cloud and sunny weather. As a result, cloudier climates will not produce as much energy. The panels still have a good potential to provide a significant advantage, though, even if you live in an area not blessed with constant sunshine.
Energy Use
Before investing in a solar panel, it is a good idea to figure out how much electricity your home uses. It will help forecast future changes that necessitate less or more electrical input. Calculate the energy consumption of your household appliances, and there are plenty of online guides to help with this. This information will give you a good sense of how much power you want your solar panel to generate.
Furthermore, calculating your energy usage can determine how many solar panels and batteries you will need to install. Knowing your usage is vital to avoid installing more or fewer panels than you need.
Solar Panel Warranties
After considering everything described above, you should review additional aspects of the solar panel. To begin, research trustworthy solar panel providers before deciding on one.
Choose a company that has been in business for an extended period of time because it may have more significant experience. Before committing to a solar panel firm, chat with contractors and read reviews.
This research is necessary because, depending on the warranty, you will have to deal with them for the next 10 to 25 years.
There usually are two sorts of warranties: performance warranties and product warranties.
A performance warranty is when the company and manufacturer guarantee that the product will perform its tasks within the specified time frame. This type of guarantee typically lasts between 25 and 30 years.
A product warranty protects you if there are any problems with the product and usually lasts 15 to 25 years.
Remember that the warranty’s functionality depends on the manufacturer, so do your homework.
Voltage Optimisation
Voltage optimisation is an ingenious energy-saving method for regulating the incoming power supply from the National Grid. Lowering the voltage supplied to the optimal level can reduce the quantity of electricity you use while also lowering your carbon footprint!
This intelligent technology is found in your home’s electrical equipment and appliances and at your business.
How does a voltage optimiser work?
Power from the National Grid is typically supplied at a higher voltage than is required. Even though the official typical supply voltage in the UK is 230V, the actual voltage provided by the National Grid swings approximately 242V on average!
The majority of appliances are rated at 220V. As a result, appliances receive more electricity than is required to operate. As a result, both energy and money are wasted. In addition to increased wear and tear on your appliances.
You can lower the voltage received by your home or company by simply installing a voltage optimiser. Voltage optimisers are connected to your power supply in series between the distribution transformer and the main low-voltage distribution board. The supply voltage is decreased to the desired level when power flows through your Voltage Optimiser.
Any surplus voltage supplied is returned to the grid and does not get used. The benefit extends to a longer life for your electrical equipment with an optimised power supply.
Solar Panels and Voltage Optimisers Make Sense
Technology is constantly evolving and becoming more inventive. Solar panels are one example of such technology. They offer a variety of advantages, ranging from environmental benefits to financial savings. However, there are a few things to think about before purchasing one.
If solar isn’t for you, then a voltage optimiser is the way forward. They are relatively inexpensive compared to solar and can bring long-term savings not just in energy usage but in protecting your electrical goods.
