Other Frequently Asked Questions
Halcol Energy understands that to be in charge of your own electricity production and consumption raises some frequently asked questions.
So we’ve listed below are the answers to some frequently asked questions. If you cannot find the answers you require here or indeed you require further information then please feel free to contact us.
Do you install everything yourself?
Yes, Halcol Energy employs Clean Energy Council-certified solar installation engineers to complete your installation.
What is Solar PV?
Solar PV is a renewable energy system that converts daylight into electricity using photovoltaic modules installed on the roof of a building. Photovoltaic cells are composed of thin layers of semiconducting material (typically crystalline silicon) that generate an electrical charge when exposed to direct or diffuse sunlight.
What are STCs?
STCs are Small Scale Technology Certificates that are used as a form of currency. They are generated by the installation of green energy systems, and the larger the system, the more solar STCs are generated. You can keep them, sell them, or sign them over to Halcol Energy to reduce the cost of your solar energy system.
How do photovoltaics function?
Sunlight strikes solar photovoltaic cells, which convert them to clean electricity. The inverter converts direct current electricity to alternating current, which can then be combined with mains electricity and used to power appliances in your home. When the solar energy system generates more power than is required, it is exported to the power grid. Power is imported from the electricity grid as usual at night.
What exactly is a kWh (kilowatt hour) of electricity?
A unit is how electricity is billed. You’ll need 1,000 Watt-hours of 1kWh (or unit) of electricity to run a 100-Watt bulb for 10 hours.
What are the primary advantages of a PV system?
Once installed and operational, you own the system and have control over a long-term free source of electricity that is not subject to price increases. You are not only saving money but also actively saving the environment. A solar PV system produces no noise, has no moving parts, requires little maintenance, has a long lifespan, and emits no CO2. Essentially, it will produce clean energy for many years to come.
Where can I put my solar panels?
The positioning of your PV array (group of PV modules) is critical. Because the modules should receive as much sunlight as possible, it is not recommended that they be installed in areas where nearby buildings or trees may cast shadows. Although east and west-facing roofs typically provide a minimum of 90% efficiency, the best location for a solar PV array is on a north-facing roof angled at 30 degrees. Halcol Energy offers a variety of mounting options, including on-roof, in-roof, and flat-roof options in both landscape and portrait orientation.
How do the panels perform when angled and oriented differently?
If the optimum angle is not possible, 10-degree and 50-degree tilts, as well as east and west-facing roofs, can still provide over 90% of the maximum annual energy. North-facing vertical facades produce approximately 70% of the maximum.
What are the consequences of shade?
Shading is essential. Minor shade on solar panels can result in significant energy loss. Because PV modules are connected in series, the module with the least amount of irradiation determines the operating voltage of the string to which it is connected. This is one of the factors taken into account in the Halcol Energy site survey conducted prior to any installation.
Is it true that PV works?
Yes. Because the photovoltaic modules only require daylight to function, they will generate energy even on cloudy or rainy days. The amount of electricity generated by a PV system is also affected by temperature. For every degree above 25 degrees Celsius, the efficiency of a PV module decreases by a fraction. As a result, a clear, chilly day is ideal, because PV modules perform better at lower temperatures.
What kind of maintenance and cleaning do PV systems require?
A solar PV system operates quietly, has no moving parts, and requires little maintenance. The rain will usually keep the modules clean. A buildup of dirt, on the other hand, can have an impact on system performance. The degree of soiling will vary depending on location, but if the array tilt is at least 15 degrees, dust accumulation and self-cleaning usually reach a steady state after a few weeks. Dust can reduce power by up to 10% in extreme cases. The system’s design should aim to minimize uneven soiling. If desired, the modules can be cleaned once a year with a hose or, if possible, soapy water and a non-abrasive cloth.
What size photovoltaic system do I require?
This question does not have a simple answer. It will be determined by how much money you want to invest, how much electricity you want to generate through PV, and how much un-shaded roof space you have. It is not necessary to use solar PV to power your entire home (since you will still be connected to the national grid). Even if your PV system only provides half of your electricity, it will significantly reduce your carbon footprint! Halcol Energy will be able to recommend the size of the system you require after discussing your specific needs.
How much energy do I require?
According to statistics, the average three-bedroom house uses 6,497kWh per year. To get an accurate estimate for us to work with, we recommend looking at your last three bills or speaking with your energy supplier.
What if I generate more energy than I require?
When your panels produce more electricity than your home consumes, it is fed back into the grid for use by other homes. After you install a solar system, we will notify the energy company to install a bidirectional meter that measures the amount of electricity imported and exported; you will be eligible for a credit for the electricity exported. This will reduce your electricity bills and ensure that no green electricity is wasted. Some energy companies will pay you up to 11c per kWh for energy exported to the grid!!
Is the system powered by batteries?
No. The Solar Systems of Halcol Energy is linked to the national grid. During the night, when the cells are not producing energy, electricity is purchased from the utility company as usual. Any excess electricity produced during the day, such as when you are at work, is sold back to the utility company. So solar batteries are not needed.
What happens if the power goes out?
Halcol Energy’s residential solar systems are entirely solar grid connected. If there is a power outage, your system will be turned off automatically. This is a precautionary measure intended to prevent electricity from leaking onto the national grid and to protect individuals who may be working to restore power.
Can Halcol Energy train me to become a Halcol Energy Installation Engineer?
If you are a fully qualified electrician, you may be eligible if you complete some additional training. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Which electricity provider should I choose?
Most electricity providers now offer rates ranging from 6 cents to 11 cents per kWh, but rates fluctuate, so it is always a good idea to shop around for the best deals.
Can I sell the electricity that I generate?
Yes, you can be an electricity retailer. Some suppliers offer up to 8 cents per kWh more for each unit exported back into the grid.
How much does a solar system cost?
The cost of solar panel installation is determined by a detailed survey performed by Halcol Energy. It will vary depending on how easy or difficult it is to access the roof space and the type and size of the PV system chosen. Please contact us for the most up-to-date pricing. A solar PV installation can add as little as 4% to the cost of constructing a new three-bedroom home, but this can be added to its final value when sold. It also helps to ‘future-proof’ a home against rising fuel prices, making properties even more appealing to budget-conscious buyers. As fuel prices rise, energy-efficient, renewable-energy-powered homes will continue to command a premium.