Thanks to the sun’s abundance of solar energy, we can power our homes with 100% clean electricity using photovoltaic solar panels. Installing them on the roofs of properties, we can begin to generate our own electricity-saving money on energy bills and being environmentally conscious whilst doing it.
Our helpful infographic below will tell you everything you need to know-from how they work, to how they can power your home.
Comments
I would like to enquire about installing solar panels on my house how do I find out more
Hi there, thank you for your enquiry. If you would like to know more about solar panels please visit our helpful solar panel support page by clicking the following link: https://energyadvicehelpline.org/support-centre/solar-panels/
If you would like to apply for solar click here: https://energyadvicehelpline.org/grants/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=blog&utm_term=what-are-solar-panels-and-how-do-they-work-infographic
I have solar panels already on the house I purchased but I don’t own them
the solar company does. But why don’t I get any cheap electricity.?
Hi there Janet, hope you are well!
There are several reasons why you might not be seeing cheap electricity from the solar panels on your house, even though they are installed and operated by a solar company. Here are some common scenarios and potential explanations:
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) or Lease:
PPA: If the solar panels are under a PPA, you agree to buy the electricity generated by the panels at a predetermined rate. This rate may not necessarily be lower than your current utility rate, depending on the terms of the agreement.
Lease: If you are leasing the panels, you might be paying a fixed monthly fee for the panels, regardless of the amount of electricity they generate.
Utility Rate Structure:
Net Metering: Depending on your location and utility company, the terms of net metering can vary. Some utilities offer less favorable net metering policies, meaning you might not get full credit for the excess electricity your panels produce.
Time-of-Use Rates: If you are on a time-of-use rate plan, the cost of electricity varies depending on the time of day. The solar panels may not be producing the most electricity during peak rate periods, thus reducing the potential savings.
System Performance:
Shading or Maintenance Issues: If the panels are not operating at optimal efficiency due to shading, dirt, or maintenance issues, the amount of electricity generated may be lower than expected.
System Size: The system may be undersized for your household’s electricity usage, meaning you still need to buy a significant portion of your electricity from the utility.
Contract Terms:
Escalator Clause: Some solar leases and PPAs have an escalator clause that increases the price you pay for the solar electricity each year. This could mean that over time, your solar electricity cost could become higher than the utility rates.
Billing and Charges: There could be additional fees or charges stipulated in the contract that offset the savings from the solar electricity.
Seasonal Variations:
Production Fluctuations: Solar panel output can vary significantly with the seasons. During winter or cloudy periods, the panels produce less electricity, which could affect your overall savings.
To get a clearer picture of why you’re not seeing the expected savings, you can:
– Review your contract with the solar company to understand the specific terms and conditions.
– Compare your current electricity bills with past bills before the solar installation.
– Check the performance of the solar panels and ensure they are working efficiently.
– Consult with the solar company to address any discrepancies or issues you might be experiencing.
Understanding the specifics of your agreement and the performance of the system can help you identify the reasons for not seeing the anticipated cost savings.
Thank you for your comment, we hope this information helps. If you have any more questions please feel free to ask us!
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