Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity for immediate use or storage. During daylight hours, they power appliances, lighting, and heating systems in your home or business. Any surplus energy can be stored in a battery (if installed) or exported back to the grid, potentially earning you money through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). This process helps you reduce your electricity costs and lower your carbon footprint.

Most solar panels are made from silicon, one of the most abundant materials on Earth. They consist of photovoltaic (PV) cells housed between a protective glass layer and a durable backsheet. The entire panel is framed in aluminum for stability. Wires and connectors complete the circuit, allowing the system to feed electricity into your property. Panels are built to withstand UK weather, including wind, rain, snow, hail and high temperatures!

After 25 years, most solar panels still produce electricity, though at a reduced efficiency—typically 75–85% of their original output. They don’t stop working entirely; instead, performance gradually declines over decades. Some older panels are still functioning well after 30 years. Once they reach end-of-life, most components (aluminum, glass, silicon) can be recycled or reused. Extended warranties and improved materials mean today’s systems are built to last.

The best solar panels depend on your specific needs—budget, roof size, shading, and energy goals. The solar panel market is constantly changing and innovating offering clients more choice. A certified installer can assess your roof and energy use to recommend the most suitable PV solar panel system for you.

Solar panels perform best on bright, sunny days between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when sunlight intensity is highest. In the UK, south-facing roofs with minimal shade offer optimal performance. That said, modern solar panels are designed to work in diffused light, so they still generate electricity on cloudy days—just at a lower rate. Performance is best in spring and summer but as weather patterns change, solar panels are becoming valuable commodities all year round.

Solar panels generally need cleaning once every 2 years in the UK, depending on local dust, pollen, leaves, or bird droppings. Rain usually keeps panels clean, but buildup can reduce efficiency. If you live near trees, busy roads, or farmland, annual cleaning may be helpful. Experienced window cleaners or professional solar cleaning services can do this for you. Do NOT attempt to go onto your rooftop to clean the panels yourself.

The first practical solar cell was developed in 1954 by Bell Labs in the United States. Early adoption was limited to satellites and high-cost applications. Over the decades, production costs dropped significantly, and today solar panels are widely used for residential and commercial energy needs—especially in countries like the UK where clean energy incentives support installation.

Solar panels are worth it if you own your property, have a suitable roof, and plan to stay there for several years. With electricity prices rising, most UK homeowners can expect to recover their investment in 6–10 years. Government support like VAT exemptions and SEG income improves the return further. Over 25+ years, the savings and environmental benefits far outweigh the initial cost.

Solar panels are used worldwide in residential homes, commercial buildings, farms, schools, and hospitals. In the UK, they’re increasingly common on domestic rooftops, social housing, retail units, and even carports. Anywhere with access to daylight and a stable surface is suitable for solar energy generation.

Solar panels perform best when installed on unshaded, south-facing rooftops with a tilt angle of 30–40°. East- and west-facing roofs also work well, just with slightly less daily production. The UK’s relatively mild climate is actually ideal for solar since panels operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures, even on overcast days.