Solar Panels

Solar panels for homes & businesses

Ecclesall Design is a leading architectural design and planning business based in Sheffield and serving the areas of Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and beyond. As wholesale energy prices rise to record levels and the focus on climate change increases, we have witnessed an ever-growing number of clients seeking solar panels for their residential extensions, new build houses and commercial building projects.

We are excited to announce our latest service in providing sustainable energy solutions to our clients to help them achieve their energy efficiency goals.

Understanding the importance of energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, we now offer a comprehensive range of solar PV systems including inverters and battery storage, alongside other sustainable solutions such as air source heat pumps, EV chargers, and various types of insulation.

With our expertise in architectural design and commitment to promoting sustainable buildings, we are dedicated to helping you create energy-efficient spaces that reduce your home or business’s carbon footprint whilst also bringing down your home’s energy costs.

Solar PV Panels 

Solar PV panels, also known as solar photovoltaics or solar PV, have become a popular choice for renewable energy over the past two decades as an excellent option for reducing carbon footprint and saving on electricity bills.

One common question we receive is whether solar panels work in the UK, given the limited sunshine. The answer is yes, solar panels are effective even on cloudy days. While stronger sunshine produces more electricity, solar radiation penetrates clouds sufficiently to generate power.

Solar PV panels work by utilising photovoltaic cells that capture solar radiation and convert it into electricity. These cells, typically made of silicon, become energized by sunlight, creating an electric current. Solar panels can generate electricity from visible light, allowing them to function even on overcast days.

The generated DC current from solar cells must pass through an inverter to convert it into AC current suitable for home use. The inverter is usually placed inside the home, close to the panels.

Before installing Solar PV Panels, consider a few requirements. The roof should face between east and west for maximum sun exposure and be free from shadows. Any structural issues in the roof timbers should be addressed to support the panels’ weight, and damaged tiles replaced. Government grants may be available based on your system’s energy generation and your financial situation.

Solar PV Panels offer a wide range of benefits, making them an excellent choice for homeowners. Firstly, they provide renewable energy, harnessing the power of the sun as a sustainable energy source. By generating your own electricity, you can significantly reduce your energy bills and even receive payments for any excess electricity you produce. Moreover, solar panels act as a shield against rising energy costs, providing long-term protection. They also enhance the value of your property, as lower energy bills and eco-friendly features are highly appealing to potential buyers. Installation is hassle-free, often not requiring planning permission and completed within 1-2 days. Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance and, when combined with solar battery storage, allow for nighttime usage of the generated power. Lastly, solar panels operate silently, ensuring a peaceful environment for you and your neighbours.

 

Solar Battery Storage

Solar battery storage enhances your solar PV system by allowing you to store unused solar energy for later use. By storing excess power during the day as it is being produced, you can access renewable energy even when your panels are not generating electricity, such as at night. This reduces reliance on the grid, protects against future energy price increases, and provides a continuous renewable energy source.

There are various battery storage options available depending on your requirements, offering different capacities, warranties, and lifespan. Lithium-ion batteries are a popular choice due to their faster charging, longer lifespan, higher power density, and compact size.

By pairing battery storage with your solar panels, you can experience numerous benefits. Firstly, you can store the excess energy generated during the day for later use, optimising the utilisation of solar power and enabling consumption during nighttime. This results in significant savings on energy costs by reducing reliance on the grid. Additionally, you can enhance your energy independence by minimizing dependence on inconsistent energy providers. Lastly, by utilising more renewable energy, you actively contribute to further reducing your carbon footprint.

Battery storage can be added to an existing solar PV system. If your system was designed with future storage in mind, the process is relatively simple, requiring connection to the inverter. If not, options include replacing the inverter with a battery-compatible one, installing a separate storage inverter, or opting for a battery storage unit with an integrated inverter.

Contact us for a detailed discussion on available options and the benefits of each product. We can guide you through the selection process and ensure compatibility with your existing or planned solar PV system.

Solar battery storage in Sheffield
Solar PV diverter installed in Sheffield

Solar PV Diverter

Solar PV diverters, also known as immersion diverters or power diverters, are a cost-effective solution for maximising the consumption of solar electricity generated by your solar panels. By installing a solar diverter, you can divert surplus energy to power the immersion heater in your hot water tank, effectively storing hot water for later use. While a solar PV diverter may not meet all your hot water needs on its own, it can significantly reduce your energy bills.

The operation of a solar PV diverter involves continuous monitoring of your solar system’s electricity generation and your home’s energy demand. When surplus energy is detected, the diverter diverts the flow of energy to heat the water in your cylinder, saving you money on water heating costs. If your home’s energy demand increases, the diverter adjusts the energy usage accordingly, prioritising where the electricity is needed.

Benefits of heating your water with a solar PV diverter include the ability to add it to your solar panel system at any time, heating water for free, reducing your carbon footprint and energy bills, and seamless integration with your solar PV system. A solar PV diverter allows you to utilise up to 100% of the solar energy generated and serves as a low-cost and maintenance-free alternative to Solar Thermal.

By supplementing your energy supply with free solar energy, you can achieve significant savings on your energy bills. Compatible with most solar battery storage systems, solar power diverters prioritise charging your battery first and divert any surplus energy into heating your hot water. With user-friendly displays, you can easily monitor the energy being sent to the immersion heater and track your savings over different time periods.

If you’re eager to make the most of your solar power and avoid exporting it back to the grid, we are here to assist you. Contact us to explore the benefits and options of solar PV diverters for your home.

Let’s discuss your home’s energy efficiency

When it comes to designing energy-efficient homes, Ecclesall Design is the ultimate choice for clients in need of comprehensive solutions. Our expertise extends beyond architectural design and planning to encompass building regulations and energy-saving for both residential and commercial properties.

With an excellent understanding of solar PV panels, battery storage, solar diverters, air source heat pumps, EV chargers, and various insulation options, we offer a holistic approach to creating sustainable and eco-friendly spaces. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in achieving your energy efficiency goals.

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