What is Solar PV (Photovoltaics)?

Photovoltaic (PV) is a method of generating electricity by converting solar radiation into direct current (DC). Solar photovoltaic power generation has long been seen as a clean sustainable energy technology which draws upon the planet's most plentiful and widely distributed renewable energy source – the sun. The direct conversion of sunlight to electricity occurs without any moving parts or environmental emissions during operation. It is well proven, as photovoltaic systems have now been used for fifty years in specialized applications, and grid-connected systems have been in use for over twenty years.

A complete solar PV system consists of solar modules connected to an inverter that changes the PV's direct current (DC) electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity to power your electrical devices and to be compatible with the electric utility grid. Batteries are sometimes included in a system to provide back-up power in case of utility power outages.

What size of solar power installation should I buy?

Size of solar power plants will depend on your annual consumption of electricity. The other criterion is that you will need shadow free rooftop space for setting up of Solar Power Plant. To setup 1kW of solar power plant we need approx 110 sq feet (approx 10 m²) of space.

How much electricity can I generate per year from my 1kWh solar power installation?

As a thumb rule 1kW of photovoltaic will generate approx 1460 kWh per year.

What is a “net-metering grid-tie” PV system?

Many of the states have started or planning to start net-metering for grid-tie solar power generation unit. This means that your solar power generation unit will be connected directly into grid (utility company) which will allow you to sell extra power generated by your system to electricity service provider. You will be spinning your meter backwards when your system is generating more power than you are consuming.

What is the payback?

Payback is immediate, if you were to pay cash for your system, at today’s rates, you will typically recover all your investments within the next 5-7 years, but as electricity rates go higher the time it will take to fully recoup your investment could easily be less than 5 years.

How do I know if my site will work for a PV system?

Our solar designers survey the site and suggest an optimal southern orientation with good exposure to the sun. They will also check structural support and space for solar panels to be placed.

The best location for a PV system is on a south facing roof, but an east or west facing roof might also work. Flat roofs provide an environment for a variety of solar modules. Locating the PV system on the ground can work with either a fixed mount or a tracking mount system.

If the space or the solar exposure for a PV system is limited, consider going to a system with a higher efficiency rating. They are more expensive but make more energy with less square footage of module space.

Can PV systems produce power on cloudy days?

PV system can produce power on cloudy days also however the modules will generate less electricity as PV system will received 80-90% less sun light on an overcast day.

How will the weather affect my solar electric system?

Solar electric systems are designed to withstand all weather conditions. Lightning, wind up to 120 km per hour, and extreme temperatures are all things your solar system can handle. However, these conditions will temporarily reduce its energy production.

Do PV systems work well in the cold?

Yes they work perfectly in winters. In fact, photovoltaic systems generate more power when the temperature is lower. Because of the shorter hours of daylight and lower angles of the sun in winter, PV modules do generate less energy than in summer.

Will my system work at night? 
If there is no available sunlight your solar-energy system will stop working – it simply becomes inactive and the power you use will be provided by the electric grid.
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Are PV Systems Safe?

Solar panels are a quiet, non-polluting source of energy. Like all large electrical devices, PV systems generate electricity and should be treated with care and maintained with the assistance of a solar professional.

Will my system have batteries?

Usually only if the system is ‘Off-Grid’, batteries will be essential for the storage of electricity so you can use electrical equipment when there is no sunlight. Grid Connected PV systems don’t need batteries, however, you can have batteries with a grid connected installation if you wish to have power during power cuts, you need to determine this before the installation.

How long will my solar system last?

Most solar panels come with a 25 year power output guarantee and are expected to last at least twice that long. The power output guarantee on the solar panels is provided by the manufacturer of the panels and states that at the end of the 25th year, the solar panel will still produce a minimum of 80% of their original power output.


When is the best time to install solar?

The best time to install solar was yesterday and will always be yesterday. Solar electricity is getting more and more expensive as the rebates and subsidies are dropping and panel prices are increasing. Fortunately electricity rates are also increasing at a faster rate than the price of solar!

Will my system require maintenance?

Once your solar-energy system is installed there is not any specific, regular maintenance that needs to be performed. It is helpful to wash the panels a few times a year to optimize your system. The panels can be washed with a standard garden hose, but it is important to note that cold water applied to hot panels could cause damage. It is best to wash the panels in the morning before they are exposed to the sun.