Understanding The Eco-Impact And Costs Of Solar PV Energy
Luke Webb
01/02/2024

Solar PV is a growing popular choice for homes and commercial properties, however, there are still many misconceptions in knowledge surrounding their functions and benefits. Maisum Renewable Energy is a business with over 25 years of experience in designing and installing solar panels. Like many companies transitioning to renewable energy, we prioritise environmental benefits and seek out the most efficient products to reduce carbon footprint. The benefits of switching to solar are numerous with a big factor being the long-term cost savings on energy bills.

How does Solar PV work?

Solar photovoltaics (PV) generates electricity by absorbing light through panels containing multiple layers of silicon and other materials. This absorption process releases electrons, which then produce an electric charge. Solar panels are incredibly versatile and can be installed in a variety of locations, ranging from residential to rural farmland, and even on the rooftops of factories or city buildings. One of the benefits of this technology is that it operates silently and without any noise pollution. Additionally, with panels primarily composed of silicon sheets, there is no risk of emitting any harmful toxins or fumes.

A big misconception about solar panels is that they require direct sunlight to operate. This isn't true – even on cloudy days, solar PV can generate energy and prevent power outages. While the electricity output is higher when the sun is stronger, it still functions with minimal sunlight.

How much do solar panels cost?

One of the most common questions asked is the cost of solar panels. With the world moving towards a net-zero society and the development of renewable energy continues to grow, the cost of solar panels has decreased in recent years. Demand and efficiency is continuing to grow with solar panels becoming more popular leading to prices continuing to fall.

Here at Maisum, we specialise in designing, supplying, installing and commissioning industry-leading Solar Panels throughout the UK. This includes designing brand-new Solar PV systems for your house, office, or factory.

After the initial investment, the energy produced by the solar panels will not cost you anything. Depending on various factors - such as size - the average solar payback period ranges from six to ten years. While larger installations require a higher upfront cost, they also result in higher monthly savings. degradation rates.

How long do solar panels last?

To enjoy the energy-saving benefits of your property, you should expect a minimum lifespan of 25 years from your PV system while still operating at no less than 80% efficiency. Even after this period, your panels will continue to convert energy but with a lower efficiency. Unfortunately, long-term exposure to UV rays and adverse weather conditions can reduce effectiveness, with extreme heat or cold temperatures leading to faster degradation rates.

"It's a very investable thing for business, you get the quality when you come to us. We've got clients spending £300,000 and they get a return of investment within 2-3 years and they continue to get that for the next 20 plus years."
Lee Tapping
Director

What are the environmental benefits?

Unlike fossil fuels, solar panels contribute to a healthier planet by generating a minimal amount of air and water pollution. Solar energy is a renewable source that will last until the sun eventually burns out, which is billions of years from now. In contrast, fossil fuels must be burned to produce energy, but solar panels harness energy created by the sun. This is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, which is vital for protecting our planet's ecosystems, wildlife, and our very own lives.

Maisum focuses on the environmental benefits. Solar PV reduces the carbon footprint massively as the average solar energy users save as much as 75 billion barrels of oil and 35 million tonnes of carbon dioxide.