How to judge whether solar photovoltaic panels are good

How do I choose a solar panel?

Find out more about types of solar panels and other buying advice for solar panels. To help decide which type of solar cells to go for, look at cost per watt (£/W) of power output. You can do this by dividing the total cost of the solar system you are being quoted for by the total power output of the system.

Should you buy a solar PV system for your home?

Well-chosen solar panels can provide a reliable source of renewable electricity for decades, helping to slash your electricity bills and cut your carbon footprint. But buying an inappropriate solar PV system for your home could leave you out of pocket.

Why does a quality solar panel have a lower energy production rating?

A quality panel has a lower tolerance of energy production rating because it will produce closer to its advertised energy production. This is the amount of energy the solar pales drop when at a specific temperature. If the coefficient is high, the panel produces less energy at the rated temperature. A temperature coefficient below 0.5% is good.

Are solar panels worth it?

With the payback periods that range anywhere from 7 to 15 years, depending on your circumstances, they not only help minimise your energy bills, but can also add to your home’s value. While solar panels might not be worth it for everyone, most disadvantages can be addressed with the right solutions.

Are PV panels a good option?

In some circumstances, PV panels may not be the best option (if your electric bills are already low or your roof isn’t suitable). In cases such as this, you may not see savings and break even right away. However, even in these less-than-ideal conditions, PV panels can still provide many advantages in the long-run.

Should you invest in solar panels?

More than a million homes in the UK now have solar panels. They're a guaranteed way to use truly renewable electricity, but many people are not sure about whether to invest. Some are put off by uncertainty about costs, others believe the installation will be disruptive and many worry that solar panels will be tricky to maintain.