Solar PV
Efficient Electricity for a Sustainable Home
Solar PV systems provide a renewable source of electricity by converting sunlight into power for your home. They can help reduce energy bills, lower carbon emissions, and improve your home’s overall energy efficiency.
By generating your own electricity, you can make your home more sustainable and take meaningful steps toward reducing your environmental impact.
What is Solar PV?
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels are installed on your roof and capture sunlight to generate electricity.
Each panel contains photovoltaic cells that convert light into electrical energy, which can be used directly in your home or exported to the grid.
Solar PV provides a low-carbon, renewable energy source that can reduce reliance on conventional electricity and support a cleaner, more sustainable energy system.
How Does It Work?
Solar PV systems capture sunlight and convert it into electricity for use in your home. The system is designed to supply your household with energy as efficiently as possible, while managing any excess production.
Here’s how it works:
Solar panels on your roof capture sunlight and generate direct current (DC) electricity.
An inverter converts this DC electricity into alternating current (AC) suitable for use in your home.
The electricity generated powers your home, reducing the amount you need to take from the grid.
Any surplus electricity can be exported to the grid, which may allow you to receive payments through government schemes such as the Smart Export Guarantee.
This approach ensures that your home gets the electricity it needs while maximising efficiency and supporting lower energy costs.
What are the Benefits?
Solar PV systems offer a range of advantages, particularly for homes looking to generate their own electricity and reduce reliance on conventional energy sources:
Energy efficiency – Generates electricity from sunlight to reduce reliance on the grid.
Lower running costs – Produces your own power to help cut monthly energy bills.
Reduced carbon emissions – Clean, renewable energy that lowers your household’s environmental impact.
Reliable supply – Provides consistent electricity during daylight hours for household use.
Flexible installation – Can be combined with battery storage or other renewable technologies.
Future-ready – A practical step towards a more sustainable, energy-efficient home.
Solar PV systems are suitable for a wide range of properties, but there are a few practical factors to consider before deciding if one is right for your home.
Is a Solar PV System Right for You?
Roof Orientation and Space
To get the most from a solar PV system, your roof should face south or southwest and be free from shading. Ensuring there is sufficient space allows for the optimal number of panels to generate electricity efficiently throughout the year.
Roof Condition
A sound and well-maintained roof is essential before installing solar panels. If repairs or replacement are needed, completing these first ensures the panels can be securely fitted and perform reliably over their lifespan.
Energy Consumption
Homes with higher electricity usage benefit most from solar PV. Assessing your household energy needs ensures the system provides meaningful savings and helps maximise the proportion of your electricity generated from sunlight.
Planning Permissions
Most solar panel installations fall under permitted development rights. However, homes in conservation areas or listed buildings may require approval, and checking this in advance helps prevent installation delays and ensures compliance with regulations.
How We Can Help
At Ignite Sustainable Energy, we’re committed to helping homeowners take meaningful steps towards more efficient, sustainable living. Our team provides clear, practical guidance on how solar PV systems work and how they can benefit your home.
We can also help you explore available government funding schemes that support energy-efficiency upgrades, including solar PV systems. By understanding your property’s needs and eligibility, we’ll help you make the most of these opportunities to reduce costs and improve your home’s energy performance.
With the right system and the right support, you can enjoy a more efficient home while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Did you know you could be eligible for free energy efficient upgrades for your home?
Get a Solar PV system and other home improvements 100% fully funded through the ECO4 scheme.