There are many myths surrounding solar panels, how they work and how much they can actually benefit you and the wider environment. There are two types of solar panels – photovoltaic solar panels, which are used to power household goods and lighting and solar thermal which allows you to heat water. In the latest blog post from AES Roofing Contractors, we discuss three things you should know about photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, helping you to make a solid decision on this investment.

Daylight or Sunlight?

It is a common misconception that we need hours of constant sunshine a day to receive maximum benefit from investing in solar panels. However, it is not the amount of sunshine we get, but rather, the amount of daylight. In fact, PV solar panels can still generate some electricity even on gloomy days.

Although solar panels generally perform better when installed on a south-facing roof, if your roof faces south-west or west, you will still receive some benefits from this investment. Generally speaking, your roof should remain unshaded between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm.

Energy Supplier

It is important to note that your energy supplier does not need to be the same as the supplier that pays your feed in tariff. Consequently, once you have invested in solar panels, you are still free to switch energy suppliers as you wish in order to stay at low prices. There are numerous energy suppliers that offer the feed-in-tariff as it is, in fact, mandatory for all energy suppliers with a customer base of over 250,000 to support it.

Energy Performance Certificate

It is worth noting that the amount you will be paid for generating your own electricity will vary, depending on your energy performance rating. Energy performance ratings are graded on a scale of A to E and, in order to qualify for payments, you will need an Energy Performance Certificate of at least a grade D.

Once you’ve had your energy performance assessment, you will be covered for 10 years – unless you wish to improve the rating, then you can make necessary changes and have another assessment.

Here at AES Roofing Contractors, we offer a number of roofing services and welcome you to contact us to find out more. Please call today on 01905 333697 or head over to our online enquiry form and we’ll be in touch shortly.