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FAQ’s

General Questions about Solar Energy

How do solar panels work?
Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity through photovoltaic cells.

Can solar panels power my entire home?
Yes, with the right system size and adequate sunlight, solar panels can power your entire home.

Do solar panels work on cloudy or rainy days?
Yes, they still produce energy, though less efficiently. Energy production depends on the amount of sunlight available.

Do solar panels work at night?
No, solar panels don’t generate power at night. However, battery storage systems can provide stored energy.

Cost and Financing

How much do solar panels cost?
The cost varies based on system size, location, and incentives, but the average residential system can range from £10,000 to £25,000 before incentives.

What financing options are available for solar panels?
Options include outright purchase, solar loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs).

How long does it take to break even on solar panels?
Typically, it takes 5 to 10 years to recover the initial investment, depending on savings and incentives.

Are there tax incentives for installing solar?
Yes, many governments offer tax credits, rebates, or incentives to offset the cost.

Installation and Maintenance

How long does it take to install solar panels?
Installation typically takes 1–3 days, but the entire process, including permitting, can take 1–3 months.

Do I need to clean or maintain my solar panels?
Solar panels require minimal maintenance and occasional cleaning to remove dirt or debris.

What happens if my solar panels are damaged?
Most panels come with warranties (typically 20–25 years), and homeowners’ insurance may cover damage.

How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels have an average lifespan of 25–30 years, with gradual efficiency loss over time.

Energy Production and Savings

How much energy will my solar panels produce?
Energy production depends on system size, location, and sunlight availability, usually measured in kilowatthours (kWh).

Will I still receive an electricity bill?
You may receive a bill if your system doesn’t cover all your energy needs or if you’re charged connection fees.

Can I sell excess energy back to the grid?
Yes, many utility companies offer net metering, allowing you to earn credits for surplus energy.

How much money can I save with solar?
Savings depend on your location, energy use, and local electricity rates. Many homeowners save thousands over the life of their system.

Environmental and Technical Questions

Are solar panels environmentally friendly?
Yes, solar energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, though panel manufacturing has some environmental impact.

What happens to solar panels at the end of their life?
Solar panels can often be recycled, though recycling infrastructure is still growing.

Can I add battery storage to my solar system?
Yes, many systems can integrate batteries to store excess energy for use at night or during outages.

Will solar panels work during a power outage?
Not unless you have battery storage or an off-grid system. Grid-tied systems shut off for safety during outages.

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