solar photovoltaic panels (PV)

If you have PV panels installed, they’ll generate free electricity.

This can power your appliances and heat your home if you use electric heating such as a heat pump. This will reduce your reliance on the National Grid when the sun is shining and save you money.

Diagram showing how a solar PV system connects to the electricity grid. Solar panels feed into a DC isolator, then into a DC/AC inverter isolator. The output passes through an AC isolator to a generation meter, then into a consumer unit. Electricity flows through an electricity meter to the mains supply and onward to the grid.

How it works

Once installed, the system is easy to use and automatic. Daylight shines on the PV panels on your roof, which creates electricity. There is an invertor in your loft, which makes the electricity usable in your home.

The electricity flows through a generation meter, which counts the amount created. And then the electricity goes to the consumer unit, which sends it to different parts of your home.

What you need to know

Use more electricity when the sun is out
Before we installed your PV panels, your electricity all came from the National Grid. You were charged for every unit. Now, your panels generate free electricity, so you use less from the grid and pay less on your bills. Make the most of the free energy your panels produce!

Electricity from your PV panels goes straight to your home and isn’t stored, so it’s best to use it as it’s generated. Spread out appliance use during the day. Don’t run everything at once; for example, wait for the washing machine to finish before vacuuming. Any unused electricity goes to the National Grid. If you use more than your panels produce, you’ll buy the extra from the Grid and will be charged as usual.

Use high-power appliances like washing machines when the sun is brightest around midday. Panels still work on cloudy days, but not as efficiently.

Energy Saving Tips
Cut your electricity bill and save energy by using lower temperatures on your washing machine and dishwasher.

If you use an electric cooker or slow cooker, plan you meals so you cook during the day when the sun is out.

If you have a smart meter, check the in-home display to see how much electricity you’re exporting (sending back) to the National Grid. Use appliances when you’re exporting to make the most of your free solar energy. If you don’t have a smart meter, consider asking your energy supplier to install one.

Use price comparison websites to check if you’re on the best tariff. Switching providers could save you money.

Maintenance
We will check your PV system during your electrical safety check. They are usually every five years. Your solar panels are very low maintenance and should last around 25 years. The invertor may need replacing before then. Please contact us if you think your PV system is not working. Contact us through the customer portal or call 0300 1311 999.