Solar panels are devices that capture the energy of the sun. They are often fitted to a building’s roof (usually facing south) and produce energy even on cloudy days. There are two types of solar panels: solar hot water panels and solar photovoltaic panels (which provide electricity).

Solar hot water panels 
Solar hot water panels heat water which passes behind the panels in tubes and is then transferred to a storage tank (e.g. a hot water cylinder). During the summer, solar panels can typically produce all the hot water your household needs.  

Solar photovoltaic panels
Solar photovoltaic panels contain solar cells that convert light to electricity. Photovoltaic panels can be mounted on a rooftop or they can replace other roofing materials such as tiles.

Making money
You can connect photovoltaic panels to the national grid and sell unused electricity. 

Remote areas
If you live in a remote area and are off the grid, you can store any unused electricity generated by solar photovoltaic panels in a battery bank. (As battery output is direct current and most household appliances are alternating current, you will need an inverter to convert the battery output to alternating current). During long periods of bad weather, however, the batteries may go flat so you may need a back-up diesel or petrol generator. 

What’s the cost?

Do I need planning permission?
You may need planning permission to install solar panels, especially if your property is a listed building or in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Contact your local planning department to make sure.