This step-by-step guide shows how a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) system will work on your property.

1. When daylight hits the solar panel array, ideally located on a south facing roof, the cells within the panels generate an electrical direct current (DC). Of course, the more light that shines on the array, the higher the current generated. Read more

2. Before the electricity can be used in the building’s circuit, it must be converted into alternating current (AC). This is done by an inverter which is usually located in the loft space, or sometimes in the garage.

3. From the inverter, the generated electricity passes through the solar PV meter, which records the amount of electricity the PV system is generating and thus the amount the energy supplier will pay for.

4. The generated electricity then passes into your consumer unit/fuse board/circuit breaker to be used throughout your property.

5. When demand for electricity in your property is lower than the amount being generated by the solar PV system, the surplus electricity is exported to the National Grid.

6. When demand for electricity is greater than that being generated by the solar panels (at night, for example) you will import electricity from your energy supplier in the normal way.

7. From 1st April, 2010 installations of solar photovoltaic panels attract tax free income through the feed-in tariff as long as the system is installed by an MCS accredited company using MCS accredited products. Read more