FAQ

What size of array is required to deliver an output of 1kWp? Who do I bill for the solar-generated electricity I produce and how do I bill them? How are solar panels fitted to a building? How is the electrical current fed into the electricity grid? How is it possible to tell if a house is suited to having a solar array installed? Is it worthwhile having a solar array in the North of France? Is it possible to integrate solar panels into roofing? Does the solar array have to be cleaned on a regular basis? Do shadows cast over a solar array affect its electricity yield? Is my house compatible with a solar array? What is an electrical inverter? What is a photovoltaic solar panel? What is photovoltaic electricity? What is meant by Watt-peak (Wp)? What makes Solairedirect different from other solar array suppliers? What is a solar panel’s ‘energy conversion efficiency’? How much does a solar array fitted to a roof weigh? How much will the annual yield of my solar array be? What is the difference between Solar hot water panels and solar panels? What effect does cloudy weather have on the energy yield of a solar panel? What are the main types of photovoltaic solar panels?

• Monocrystalline silicon solar panels are the panels that offer the best energy conversion efficiency. Their manufacturing process is extremely complex, therefore they are relatively expensive even when taking into consideration their improved productivity.
• Thin film (amorphous or micro-amorphous silicon) panels offer lower energy conversion efficiency but are much more productive in low light levels (overcast weather, shade). They are less expensive but produce considerably less energy than crystalline panels.
• Polycrystalline or multicrystalline silicon solar panels offer the most cost-effective solution. This is why most solar arrays currently use this type of panel.