Having been around since the 7th Century B.C., solar energy may not be a new concept, but it has greatly evolved over time. Today, there is renewed emphasis on its usage as much of the world gets serious about sustainability.
If you’re unfamiliar with how solar energy works and the numerous benefits it can provide, this guide will cover all the bases for business owners, homeowners,and curious individuals alike.
Let’s start by simply defining what a solar panel is, and that’s a purpose-built panel designed to absorb the rays of the sun, subsequently turning that sunlight into energy for generating electricity and/or heating.
Solar panels that produce electricity are known as solar photovoltaic modules or ‘PV’ for short. These panels generate direct current (a one-dimensional flow of charge, like a battery) electricity when exposed to sunlight. You’ll likely be familiar with their signature tiled aesthetic, having seen them on the roofs of homes and businesses.
Panels that produce hot water, meanwhile, are known as solar thermal collectors, or solar hot water collectors.
How does it work, though? As noted, the panels generate direct current electricity, which is then converted to alternating current (AC) via an inverter. This electricity is then used to power whatever household items and appliances require it.
Excess electricity produced by solar panels can be stored in a battery or a separate storage solution. This is particularly useful given the overall reliance on sunlight, and the differing amounts of it available during the year.
As the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) points out, around 75% of electricity produced from solar PV systems in Ireland occurs between the months of May to September.
As noted, there are different types of solar panel systems available, so it’s important to carefully consider what one is right for you.
Having installed over 25,000 solar panels across Ireland since 2007, we’re confident that Activ8 Solar Energies can provide what you’re looking for.
We estimate that a move to our solar PV panels will lock in your own electricity prices for over 25 years, and you can expect to save up to 70% on your bills.
We have a range of great and affordable options for the solar-minded homeowner.
Our exclusive 445W panels are engineered by Activ8 Energies in Ireland specifically is sourced specifically to meet challenging and ever-changing Irish weather conditions, meaning it’s highly adaptable, not to mention durable, considering the panel will only ever come from the exclusive Tier 1 rating of solar panels. 30 years of performance warranty comes as standard, as does a 25-year product warranty.
Our pleasingly compact and lightweight Solis Solar Inverter boasts 97.7% max efficiency, while our intelligent Eddi eco-smart energy diverter redirects surplus power to a designated heating appliance. This enables you to stop exporting energy back to the grid and saves money on your energy bill.
And speaking of surplus power, our partnership with Duracell ensures the most efficient charging experience possible.
If you’d like to get a sense of what your own home may look like with an Activ8 system in place, you can check out multiple detailed case studies here.
For businesses looking to adopt or improve solar power methods, the process is a touch more complex - but don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through it step by step.
Our approach begins once you make a direct enquiry with our commercial team. From there, we’ll carry out a feasibility study to determine suitability, initial costs, and potential savings. We will also look at every potential commercial grant that may be available to you, and oversee that process in its entirety.
We’ll examine what financing models may be available, and engage in planning and environmental studies before communicating with local authorities on your behalf and seeking to submit a planning application.
Once we get the green light, it’s onto the design and project management stage, and all the operation and maintenance that comes with it. But don’t just take our word for it - feel free to look over the many commercial projects we’ve successfully implemented to date, or contact us directly with any questions you may have.
By now, you're likely asking yourself the question - ‘How many solar panels do I need?’. It’s a totally fair question, but the answer will be different depending on your specific set of circumstances.
The general estimate for an average Irish home is 10 though several determining factors are in play for any installation, including:
We strongly recommended availing of a professional assessment before making any major decisions. With that in mind, you may contact an expert member of our team on 0818 929 828, 042 969 0352, or get your solar quote online today.
If you’re new to the solar-powered world, you’ll naturally have some degree of apprehension when it comes to making a long-term commitment. Lifespan is, of course, a key consideration when entering into this new endeavour.
On average, solar panels last between 20 and 30 years, with their general efficiency reducing substantially towards the end of this period of time. Wear-and-tear is a big part of this, as is the cumulative effect that weather itself can have on the panels, so it’s of great importance that you keep an eye on maintenance as and when necessary.
We mentioned it a little while ago but it’s worth repeating - our certified panel comes with 30 years of performance warranty and a 25-year product warranty.
What are the Benefits of Solar Energy in Ireland?
Hopefully by now you’ve come to appreciate the many benefits of choosing solar energy, both for you individually and the world at large.
A reminder; a commitment to solar energy will:
If this sounds like the right move for you and you’re ready to obtain a personal assessment, get a free quote with Activ8 today.
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