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Solar energy

What is solar energy and how does it work?

The energy of the sun, or solar energy, is a free and clean form of renewable energy that can be used in two different ways:

  • to heat water directly in a solar hot water heater
  • to generate electricity using photovoltaic (PV) technology.

Installing a solar energy photovoltaic system will enable you to generate your own electricity and reduce your energy bill. You will also be doing your bit to reduce greenhouse gases.

PV (solar panels) are composed mainly of silicon. Energy, in the form of solar radiation striking those silicon atoms (under certain conditions), can release free electrons, which can move and form an electric current.

PV cells are typically mounted on the side of your roof that has the most exposure to the sun (north or west). These cells convert sunlight directly into DC power. A component called an inverter then converts this DC power into AC power that can be used in your home.

Solar energy systems are available in a range of sizes; a typical system is 1kW.