What is Solar PV?
Solar PhotoVoltaic are cells which convert the sun's solar energy into Direct Current (DC) Electricity. An inverter is then used to convert the Direct Current into Alternating Current (AC) so that the electricity is compatible with household appliances.
The photovoltaic cells convert the sun's rays via a semi conducting substance, usually silicon. There are three types of PV solar panels - utilizing either monocrystalline silicon cells; polycrystalline (multicrystalline) cells or amorphous silicon cells.
Electricity generated is measured in kilowatt peak (kWp).
How Solar PV Works:
The solar panels installed by Vital Energi are chosen from a range of leading manufacturers within the solar pv market place. High transmittance glass is used in the production process to ensure that the units have strong and safe properties that afford maximum from the elements whilst at the same time reducing reflection. Combined, these qualities allow the module to perform at maximum efficiency.
A tight seal is created between the solar cells, the glass and back film through lamination. Consistent performance of the UV stabilizer and gel content guarantees a stable output over the life of the module. High quality insulation provides protection against extreme heat and cold. High efficiency cells with good performance in photovoltaic conversion are a basic need and they should be satisfactory in terms of aesthetic appearance.
Do clouds affect generation?
Solar PV arrays require daylight to generate energy; therefore electricity is still generated even on a cloudy day, the best conditions for generating solar energy would be a sunny day.
Inverters.
As with many small scale electricity generators, the energy created by the solar pv panels is generated in direct current (DC). As domestic appliances are designed to run on alternating current (AC), something needs to be done to the direct current generated to make it suitable for domestic use.
The process of converting direct current into alternating current is performed by a piece of equipment called an inverter. This is installed by Vital Energi as part of your installation and is located as near as physically possible the solar panels as installed. Typically the ideal inverter location is within the loft space.
Designed in accordance with delivery of varying levels of performance, the inverter unit must be carefully specified in accordance with the installation to maximize system performance.
Vital Energi choose from a number of different inverter suppliers all of whom carry appropriate certification. Your design consultant will ensure that the best inverter is selected for your installation and will talk this through in full.
Mounting Systems
The mounting system is the equipment installed by Vital Solar which secures the solar pv panels to the agreed installation location; in the vast majority of installation this being the external roof space although systems can also be ground mounted.
Whichever location is most suitable, components must be structurally tested and engineered to the highest standards to ensure the most robust levels of installation. Being exposed to the elements 24 x 7 emphasises the need for well installed panels to ensure system performance is maintained and also the danger of fixings becoming loose are eliminated.
Dependent on your roof pitch and design, we have a wide range of roof mounting design options from which to choose that will best suit your particular installation. Vital Solar will ensure the mounting system installed at your home will be the best fit solution engineered to the highest standards.
Vital Energi Solar Ltd use only the highest quality mounting systems to ensure our customer can enjoy real peace of mind during the installation of their solar pv system and also for many years beyond.
