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SOLAR PV - the original source of energy. Solar PV stands for photovoltaic cells Made from layers of semi-conducting material, traditionally silicon. When the sun shines on the cell it creates an electric field. Groups of cells are mounted together on panels or slates
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SOLAR PV - the original source of energy Solar PV stands for photovoltaic cells Made from layers of semi-conducting material, traditionally silicon. When the sun shines on the cell it creates an electric field. Groups of cells are mounted together on panels or slates Power of a cell is measured in kilowatts kWp.
Efficiency and costs • Typical efficiency is 10% - 20% • If they were incorporated into the power grid the electricity produced would be 3 to 6 times more than current prices (due to their high manufacturing costs). • The average domestic PV system • is 3.5 to 4kWp and • costs from £5,000 to £9,500, this includes VAT at 5% • you get 800 kWp per sqm. So 10 sqm of PV will power an energy efficient home. • Energy payback time (EPBT)- between 6 months and 2 years
Positives • The energy that it produces is Green, renewable and doesn't generate any pollution. • Using a typical home solar PV system will save over a ton of CO2 every year. • The energy from the PV system can either be used, stored or fed into a large electricity grid. You can earn money from selling the energy/electricity back to the grid if you produce more than you need. • Feed-in-tariff: a policy mechanism designed to accelerate investment in renewable energy technologies. Cost-based compensation to renewable energy producers and you are paid for all the energy you produce, even if you use it yourself. • Green Deal: launched in Jan 2013 by the government as a financing mechanism to let people pay energy-efficiency improvements through savings on their energy bills.
Negatives • Expensive input. Life span estimated to 25 - 30 years. Replacement costs. The inverter will need to be replaced during the system’s lifetime at a cost of around £1000. • If you are tied to the grid, you wouldn't get energy if there's a black-out. • Cloudy weather and night time interrupts availability or full performance of energy • Energy needs to be stored and requires use of batteries • Manufacturing process: • Electricity used • Release of greenhouse gases • Disposing of by-products • Many panels contain toxic subs e.g. cadmium so requires recycling