FAQs

Here are our most commons solar FAQs. If there’s something else you’d like to know the answer to call 01444 480444, email info@pdp.services or click here for our contact form.

Does solar really work in the UK?

Yes. The PV cells in the panels only require daylight to work and will even generate energy on cloudy days. The sun does shine enough in West Sussex to make a PV solar system work efficiently!

What is the cost of a solar PV system?

We do not provide a fixed price for a solar PV system because every installation is different. The roof type and existing fuseboard (consumer unit) configuration are factors which can affect the cost of an installation. Please contact our team to arrange a free, no obligation estimate. We do not ‘sign up’ during the visit, the estimate is sent within a few working days of our visit. There is no hard sell at your property, or afterwards.

Can I get money back from generating my own electricity?

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) launched on 1 January 2020 and is a government-backed initiative. The SEG requires some electricity suppliers, known as SEG Licensees, to pay small-scale generators, known as SEG Generators, for low-carbon electricity which they export back to the National Grid, providing certain criteria are met (Ofgem).

For information on current rates email info@pdp.services.

The government Feed-In Tariff ended on 31st March 2019.

What maintenance and cleaning does a PV system need?

Solar photovoltaic systems have no moving parts and operate silently. They require virtually no technical maintenance and components will have a very long life. Black anodised aluminium frames with an additional coating ensures extremely high corrosion resistance and a long service life. One potential problem could be the bird life in the area spoiling the panels. If this is an issue we will discuss appropriate options with you, and an annual clean of the panels could prove beneficial in a lot of cases. We also provide a bird-proofing system which may beneficial.

How do Photovoltaic (PV) cells work?

PV cells are panels we attach to your roof or walls. Each cell is made from one or two layers of semiconducting material, usually silicon. When light shines on the cell, it creates an electric field across the layers. The stronger the sunshine, the more electricity is produced.

The strength of a PV cell is measured in kilowatt peak (kWp). That’s the amount of energy the cell generates in full sunlight.

How does an Inverter work?

Inverters convert DC, generated in the solar panels, into AC. Synchronised with the supply voltage, this AC is then either fed into the circuit of the home or into the utility transmission grid.

Inverters can also assume the task of monitoring the grid. This term includes all measures required for the protection of people and devices in case of a power outage. Inverters are programmed to immediately stop operating in case of irregular grid conditions and to interrupt feeding the grid.

If you’d like to know more about solar PV or how solar PV cells work call 01444 480444 to speak to one of our solar experts or click here for our contact page.