Inverters

solar inverters

REEF use the same leading brands of panel, inverter, and monitoring system for commercial and domestic projects.
System Parts

Q. How does a photovoltaic system work?

Photovoltaic systems generally consist of photovoltaic panels producing direct current (DC) from sunlight. The DC generated by the system is transformed by an inverter into alternating current (AC), which can be used in the home.

All electricity generated by the solar PV system is immediately available for use. If demand for electricity exceeds the amount your PV system can produce – at night, for example – the system will automatically draw the difference from the national grid in the normal way. If, however, your system is producing more electricity than you need – when you are on holiday or at work, for example – the surplus energy will be exported back to the grid and you will receive credits from your energy supplier.

Q. What is renewable electricity?

Renewable electricity is electricity produced from a sustainable source. This could be anything from a solar rooftop panel system to a wind turbine. Electricity from fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas or from nuclear stations is not renewable.

Q. Does my solar array need to be south facing?

The solar array should ideally be south facing, or primarily south facing, otherwise there will be a significant reduction in power generated over the course of the year. Please note that your array should be sited away from nearby buildings, walls, trees.

Q. Do I need planning permission?

Most solar PV installations do not need to apply for planning permission. However there are Exceptions for Listed Buildings, buildings in conservation areas and World Heritage Sites.

What is a feed-in tariff?

A feed-in tariff is a fixed rate per unit of electricity paid by your main provider for electricity generated by your PV array, as determined by the government. This was introduced in April of this year, at a rate of 41.3p per kWh generated by the solar array, for systems under 4kW installed before 31st March 2012. For systems installed after 1st April, the rate will reduce to 37.8p per kWh. Systems larger than 4kW will qualify for a tariff of 36.1p per kWh, reducing to 33p per kWh thereafter. In addition any surplus energy exported to the national grid can be sold for a minimum rate of 3p per kWh. The tariffs are guaranteed for 25 years and are tax free.

Q. Are the Feed-in Tariff rates fixed?

Your tariff will be fixed at the level applicable when you sign up. Tariff rates for solar PV are subject to an annual reduction of approximately 7%.

Q. How much will I get paid for exporting surplus electricity?

This would depend on your electricity supplier. The Government guideline is 5p/kWh but some suppliers may offer more than this. This payment is purely for the electricity which you have produced and not used (e.g. whilst at work or away on holiday) and is therefore an addition to the income generated from the Feed-in Tariff.

Q. How is the electricity measured?

The electricity produced by a solar PV system is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) just as electricity from your electricity supplier is measured. Solar PV panels are rated in kilowatt peak (kWp) – that’s the amount of energy they produce in peak conditions, i.e. full sunlight. So a 1kWp system is designed to generate 1kW of electricity every hour, in peak conditions.

As part of your solar PV system, we will fit an ‘export’ electricity meter, in addition to your existing ‘import’ meter, to allow the local electricity supply company to measure how much ‘clean’ electricity you have produced. They will then credit you for any ‘exported’ electricity you have sold back to the National Grid, as well as calculate the amount earned under the FITs scheme.

Q. How can I see how much electricity I am saving?

As an optional extra we can provide a wireless data monitor, to be used in the house, which records and stores data collected from the PV array, so you can keep an eye on what power is being generated and how much energy you are saving.

Q. Do solar PV panels work even when it is cloudy?

Yes. Solar photovoltaic systems require only daylight, not direct sunlight, so even when it’s overcast, your solar panels will be producing ‘clean’ electricity to help power your home.

Q. Can I design and install a photovoltaic system myself?

Solar PV installations should always be carried out by a trained and experienced installer. Companies carrying out installation of microgeneration technologies must comply with the relevant Building Regulations.

Q. How much maintenance does my PV system need?

PV systems need very little maintenance, we recommend that you simply regularly keep your solar panels clean and check that there is no shading on the panels. Any wiring or system components should only be checked by a qualified technician.

Q. How long is my photovoltaic system guaranteed for?

The power generated by the system is guaranteed for 25 years, although should have an operation life of at least 30 years. Some parts, such as the inverter, may need replacing over that period.

Q. Do photovoltaic systems make any noise?

No, one of the great advantages of PV versus wind is that it is silent.

Q. Can I store the electricity generated by my PV system?

No, the electricity generated must be used during the day in the house, or exported back to your electricity provider.

Q. Is my roof strong enough to support a roof mounted system?

Your roof needs to be able to withstand the weight of the solar array. We can advise you from information you would supply us, but if you are unsure, please consult a structural engineer.

Q. Would I need to insure my PV system?

Yes, you need to contact your insurance provider and add the system onto your current policy.

Q. How long will the PV system remain effective for?

The power generated by most system is guaranteed for 25 years, although they should have an operation life of at least 30 years some even saying up to 50 years. Other parts, such as the inverter, may need replacing over that period.

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