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 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.