Common solar power FAQs
Common solar questions
What are photovoltaics (PV)?
PV are semiconductor devices that convert light into electricity.
How do solar panels work?
Solar panels are made up of a number of silicon cells that transform light into electricity. Solar panels contain no moving parts, cause no noise and produce no pollution or CO2 emissions.
Technical Questions
How much energy do they produce?
One square feet of solar cells exposed to the sun at noon will receive approximately 1 kilowatt (kW) of energy from the sun. BP Solar’s multicrystalline cells convert roughly 16.5% of this energy into electricity, generating 165 watts in full sunshine.
What affects the performance of solar energy systems?
The amount of sunlight, is most important in determining the output of a solar electricity system, but temperature is also important.
Contrary to popular belief, and with other factors being equal, solar panels actually generate more power at lower temperatures. This is because solar cells generate electricity from light, not heat.
The output of a solar panel is directly proportionate to the amount of sunlight available at any given moment, so although systems can generate 50 - 70% of their typical output under bright overcast conditions, production will continue to diminish as less light reaches the surface of the solar panels.
Typically, the output of any solar panels is reduced to between 5% and 20% of its full sun output when it operates under very cloudy conditions.
Will solar panels work in my home?
To have solar panels installed on your roof, you must own a home that has enough roof space that is free from obstruction and significant shading. A southern orientation is ideal, but east- and west-facing roofs can still capture over 80% of the available power. Flat roofs work, too.
Contact a BP Solar Certified Installer to find out how suitable your home could be.
How durable are solar panels?
Our solar panels are individually tested beyond industry standards, have been proven to perform in the harshest environments and are backed by our industry-leading warranty.
Find out more about the benefits of choosing BP Solar
What types of panels does BP Solar provide?
BP Solar currently provides photovoltaic solar panels (modules) that use multicrystalline and monocrystalline solar cell technologies, which we believe offer the best balance of overall performance, reliability and value.
The benefits of a solar energy system
Why should I install a solar energy system?
Solar energy is an environmentally friendly, renewable and independent way to power your home. There is very little maintenance required and the possible long-term savings could be substantial.
What are the ecological benefits of solar energy?
Unlike fossil fuels, a solar PV system does not emit CO2. With virtually no impact on the environment, these silent, odorless solar energy systems can easily be integrated into even densely populated areas. Solar panels can be installed on most existing buildings, therefore no additional land is required.
Miscellaneous
Who do I contact about installing a solar energy system?
To learn more about what we can offer you, select the type of customer you are using the dropdown menu on the left hand side of this page. Ultimately, you can arrange a consultation with one of our experts.
