How Solar Panels Work

Solar panels are becoming an integral part of sustainable energy solutions, widely adopted in homes, businesses and industries. They harness sunlight to produce electricity, providing a clean and renewable energy source that’s increasingly important. As the world strives to reduce reliance on fossil fuels by converting sunlight into usable electricity, solar panels offer significant environmental benefits and long-term cost savings. Understanding how solar panels generate electricity, their power potential and practical installation considerations can help you make an informed decision about investing in this green technology.

In this article, we'll guide you through each aspect of solar panels, offering insights into how they work, the amount of electricity they produce and the logistics of installation, whether on rooftops or in gardens. We’ll also address questions on how many panels you may need, smart meter compatibility and how to monitor their performance.

How Do Solar Panels Create Electricity?

Solar panels operate through the photovoltaic (PV) effect, a process where certain materials generate an electric current when exposed to sunlight. Each solar panel contains many photovoltaic cells made primarily of silicon, a semiconductor that releases electrons when struck by photons in sunlight. These free electrons flow through the material, creating an electric current known as direct current (DC).

This current, however, isn't directly compatible with most household appliances. Instead, it passes through an inverter that converts it to alternating current (AC), the standard form of electricity for domestic and industrial use. The AC electricity can then be used to power appliances and devices or be fed back into the grid, potentially earning you credits or payments through various government incentive schemes. Understanding this kind of conversion process is key to appreciating the brilliance of solar technology. You can find more detailed information on this intricate process in our article titled How Do Solar Panels Create Electricity?

How Much Power Do Solar Panels Produce?

The power output of solar panels depends on a mix of factors, including the efficiency of the panels, their size, local weather conditions and the positioning of the panels themselves. Typically, residential panels deliver between 250 watts and 400 watts per panel under optimal conditions. Larger systems designed for commercial or industrial purposes can generate significantly more electricity.

Panel efficiency, which measures how effectively a panel converts sunlight into electricity, also plays a role in determining the output. Newer panels tend to have higher efficiency, producing more electricity even if they are the same size as older models. Location-specific factors like the amount of sunlight an area receives, cloud cover and shading from nearby trees or structures will also influence the panel’s power generation capacity. The actual electricity generated by solar panels is often measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), reflecting the total energy output over time. On average, a ten-panel residential solar array can produce between 2.5 kWh and 4 kWh of power. For a more comprehensive analysis of solar panel output and how it's calculated, visit our article on How Much Power Do Solar Panels Produce?

Can I Put Solar Panels in My Garden?

Solar panels aren't just limited to rooftops. If you have sufficient outdoor space, garden solar panel installations, also called ground-mounted systems, are an effective alternative. Ground-mounted panels can often be oriented more precisely to maximize sun exposure. They're usually installed at an angle that allows the panels to capture sunlight directly throughout the day.

Ground-mounted systems come with their own set of considerations. Installation may require additional permitting and you will need to ensure that panels are situated to avoid shading and obstacles. The benefits include scalability, easier maintenance and the option of sun-tracking systems for improved energy capture. These installations are particularly useful for those with limited rooftop space or whose roofs are not optimally oriented for sunlight. Before starting your project, check local zoning regulations and understand the space requirements. You can explore more about the benefits and challenges of garden installations in our article on Can I Put Solar Panels in My Garden?

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?

The ideal number of solar panels depends on several factors, including your household’s energy needs, budget and available installation space. On average, UK households consume about 3,800 kWh of electricity annually. A 3/5 to 4 kilowatt solar system, typically comprising 10 to 15 panels, is often sufficient to meet this demand. However, energy needs may vary depending on the lifestyle and size of the household size. The space available for panel installation is also significant. Ground-mounted systems allow for larger installations if there's ample garden space, while rooftops must be able to accommodate the necessary number of panels. Factors like roof orientation, shading and panel efficiency will also affect how many panels you might need.

To get an accurate estimate, conduct a detailed analysis of your current energy usage and assess the installation space. Professionals can also help you tailor the design to your specific needs. You can explore the guidelines for determining the right number of panels in our article entitled How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?

How Do I Know If My Solar Panels Are Working?

Monitoring your solar panels’ performance is essential to verify if they’re functioning effectively. Modern solar installations come with monitoring systems that provide real-time data on energy production and consumption. By keeping an eye on these metrics, you can identify potential issues such as shading, dirt buildup or equipment malfunctions and resolve them promptly.

Online dashboards or mobile apps make it convenient to access performance data anywhere, offering insights into historical trends and daily power generation. Performance monitoring ensures that you’re maximising the return on your solar investment and remain informed about your energy consumption patterns. To learn more about these systems and how to tell if your panels are operating efficiently, visit our webpage on How Do I Know If My Solar Panels Are Working?

Do Smart Meters Work with Solar Panels?

Smart meters are designed to measure your home’s electricity consumption and, in many cases, production as well. They can provide data on the amount of power your solar panels are generating and how much is fed back to the grid to help with accurate billing and monitoring. Older smart meters may lack compatibility with solar panels, but modern versions are generally capable of handling the additional data. These meters are helpful for those seeking to understand and optimise their energy use, giving real-time data and insights that allow you to balance energy production with consumption. You can discover more about how smart meters work on our page, Do Smart Meters Work with Solar Panels?

Conclusion

Understanding the mechanics of how solar panels work, their energy output and the logistics of installing them is key to leveraging their potential. Whether they're mounted on a rooftop or in a garden, solar panels provide a clean, renewable source of electricity that can help reduce energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable future. Make sure to plan your installation carefully, monitor performance and choose a system that fits your needs. With the right approach, solar panels can offer long-term energy independence and significant environmental benefits.

MPC Energy Ltd has over 30 years of experience in offering energy improvements across the UK. Our specialties include insulation, heating systems and green solutions, combining top-tier products with exceptional service and craftsmanship. Our comprehensive service is available nationwide and our focus is on improving home energy efficiency through the Energy Company Obligation Scheme and other programmes. Visit our Clydebank office in West Dunbartonshire for energy assessments and installations tailored to all budgets.

For more information about our services, contact us via our website or call to speak to one of our energy consultants at +44 141 951 7887.