DIY Builds
DIY Builds
Photo: Pixabay
Solar photovoltaic (or PV) panels convert the energy in sunlight into electricity, and this is effectively free electricity that can be used in your house (once the cost of installing the panels has been taken into account, of course).
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However, there will be times when you’re using more electricity than the panels are producing, such as on overcast days or on dark evenings. At these times the extra electricity will be imported from the national grid, as it was before you had the panels, and you will be charged for it by your energy supplier at the normal rate. Solar photovoltaic (or PV) panels convert the energy in sunlight into electricity, and this is effectively free electricity that can be used in your house (once the cost of installing the panels has been taken into account, of course). Surplus electricity is exported to the grid. This is to ensure that you are making the most of the free electricity that the solar panels are generating. It may mean you need to change your routines and plan ahead, for example using your washing machine or dishwasher during the day rather than in the evening. A typical household array of solar panels is rated at around 3000 Watts (3000W or 3 kilowatts). This means that while the sun is shining on them they will produce around 3000W of electricity as long as the panels face more or less south and are tilted at the right angle to receive the most sunlight, and that the panels aren’t shaded by a tree, building etc. On a cloudy afternoon in December, of course, that output might be nearer to 200W. In order to know how to make best use of this energy, you need to have an idea of how much electricity different appliances use. Let’s look at some typical power ratings (see What uses Watt for more):
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Households who are home during the day can take easier advantage of the free electricity than those who are only at home mornings and evenings (an average saving of £240 on the bills, compared to £100). In these situations inbuilt delay-start timers for appliances such as washing machines can be useful, or using a slow-cooker for your evening meal rather than the electric hob. If you own your home and have the money to invest, you could also explore installing battery storage.
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