Going Solar
Solar Power is one of the most efficient forms of green energy, but a lot of us still don’t know much about it. This guide walks you through the basics of solar power - what it is, how it works and why it’s so good for you and your home.
What you’ll learn
What is Solar Power, and how does it work?
Common words and phrases
Myths and facts about solar energy
All the ways solar power is good for you, your home and the planet
Solar energy installation - process, parts and performance
About Pinergy
Pinergy is on a mission to create a cleaner, greener, smarter world by powering the energy transition. We’re champions of change, and the customers who seek it.
Understanding Solar Energy
What is Solar Power, and how does it work?
Solar Power is energy from the sun that is converted to usable electricity.
Sunlight is captured by solar panels that sit on the ground, or are fixed to the roof. These panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) glass and cells, which contain a material such as silicon that acts as a conductor, generating an electric current when the sunlight hits them.
Solar Power is renewable. So, unlike energy from fossil fuels which can run out, the sun’s energy is infinite. This makes it cleaner, greener and cheaper over the long term.
How Solar Power works
1. Sunlight hits the Solar Panels:
Sunlight made up of photons hits the solar panels, creating an electric field.
2. Electrical current is created:
The PV cells convert the photons into electrons, which creates a flow of DC electricity, a raw form of energy.
3. Inverter converts DC to AC:
The DC flow runs through an inverter, which converts it to AC electricity, the type of energy that can be used in your home.
4. Electricity is ready to use:
The AC flow is fed into your home’s electrical system. You can use this free electricity to power your appliances, lights etc., save it for later, or sell it back to the grid.
Your Solar Panels can do even more for your home with these add ons:
5. Diverter unit:
Surplus electricity is automatically diverted to your hot water tank to heat your water.
6. Energy storage:
When required we provide a state of the art battery storage unit that enables you to store solar power for use when you need it.
7. Electric vehicle charging:
You can help charge your electric car with the addition of car charging solutions powered by your solar panels.
Solar Energy Glossary of Terms
Common Solar terms and phrases
Here’s a list of terms we use when talking about Solar Energy
1. Photovoltaic (PV):
Technology that converts sunlight directly into electricity using solar cells.
2. Solar Cell:
Device that converts light energy into electrical energy.
3. Solar Panel:
Collection of solar cells assembled in a frame; also known as a PV panel.
4. Inverter:
Device that converts direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) used by most homes.
5. Solar Array:
Multiple solar panels connected together to increase electricity generation.
6. Grid-Tied System:
Solar power system connected to the local electricity grid, allowing for energy exchange with the grid.
7. Off-Grid System:
Solar power system that operates independently of the local electricity grid, often using batteries for storage.
8. Net Metering:
Billing mechanism that credits solar power system owners for the electricity they add to the grid.
9. Battery Storage:
System that stores excess electricity generated by solar panels for use when the sun isn’t shining.
10. Kilowatt (kW):
Unit of power equal to 1,000 watts, used to measure the capacity of a solar power system.
11. Kilowatt-Hour (kWh):
Unit of energy representing one kilowatt of power used for one hour, used to measure electricity consumption.
12. Solar Insolation:
Amount of solar radiation energy received on a given surface area during a given time.
13. Peak Sun Hours:
Equivalent number of hours per day when solar irradiance averages 1,000 watts per square metre, used to estimate energy production potential.
14. Monocrystalline Solar Panels:
Made from a single crystal structure, known for high efficiency and longevity.
15. Polycrystalline Solar Panels:
Made from multiple silicon crystals melted together, typically less efficient but more affordable than monocrystalline panels.
16. Thin-Film Solar Panels:
Made by depositing thin layers of photovoltaic material onto a substrate, known for flexibility and lightweight properties.
17. Solar Charge Controller:
Device that regulates the voltage and current coming from the solar panels to the battery to prevent overcharging.
18. Feed-In Tariff (FIT):
Policy mechanism that supports renewable energy by paying solar power producers for the electricity they feed into the grid.
19. Renewable Energy Certificate (REC):
Tradable certificate representing the environmental benefits of generating one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity from renewable sources.
20. Solar Tracker:
Device that orients solar panels toward the sun to increase sunlight capture.
Myths vs. Facts
Mythbusting
Let’s explore some common misconceptions about Solar Power, and see what’s actually true.
Myth:
Solar panels don’t work well in Ireland because of the weather.
Fact:
Solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy and rainy days. EU irradiance charts show that Ireland is on a par with central Germany.
Myth:
Solar energy is too expensive for the average homeowner.
Fact:
The upfront cost of installing a solar system is an investment, but the price of solar panels is currently cheaper than it has ever been The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) provides grants that bring the initial cost down. Around 60,000 houses in Ireland now have solar panels installed.
Myth:
Solar panels can be installed on every property.
Fact:
Not all properties are suitable for solar panel installations. Roof orientation, roof angle, shade levels, roof condition and materials, available space and planning regulations are just some of the factors that determine how feasible a solar install is on a property. Ground Mounting is also an option available if you have the space.
Myth:
Solar panels need a lot of maintenance.
Fact:
Solar panels are low maintenance and just need to be kept clean. They’re also very reliable because they have no moving parts and the technology is trusted, making solar power one of the fastest growing energy technologies in Ireland.
Myth:
Solar panels will damage my roof.
Fact:
Professional installation will ensure there’s no damage to the roof structure. House hunters often see solar panels as an asset, so they can actually increase the value of your house
Myth:
Solar panels don’t generate electricity during winter.
Fact:
Solar panels generate electricity all year round, but the output is lower in winter because the days are shorter and there’s less light.
Myth:
The installation process is complicated and disruptive
Fact:
Professional installers can complete a solar installation in around two days, and it shouldn’t disrupt the normal life of a household too much.
Myth:
Battery storage systems aren’t worth the expense.
Fact:
Battery storage is more affordable than before, and the benefits of storing excess energy can outweigh the initial investment, helping you cut energy bills even further.
Myth:
I need planning permission to install solar panels.
Fact:
Most home solar panel installations do not require planning permission in Ireland.
Myth:
I cannot use solar power at night.
Fact:
While it’s true that solar panels do not generate electricity at night, this is where battery storage systems and grid connections come into play. Batteries can store excess energy produced during the day for use at night, and grid-tied systems can draw power from the grid when needed.
Myth:
Solar panels can run your house when there is a grid outage.
Fact:
They can supply some emergency power when battery storage is added to the solar system, but it won’t run your whole house.
Myth:
Solar panels will run your heat pump.
Fact:
They won’t run your heat pump, but they will offset the annual cost of running it.
Myth:
Solar Panels will charge your EV.
Fact:
While solar power won’t directly charge your EV, it will help top up your EV charge if you have your car plugged in during sunny days when there’s a lot of excess generation.
Myth:
Solar panel installations in Ireland have an average payback period of 10-12 years.
Fact:
The payback period in Ireland is actually between 4-7 years.
The Benefits of Going Solar
Reduce your Carbon Footprint
A typical home solar panel system can save around
1.5 to 2 tons
Global Impact
Switching to solar reduces your carbon footprint, lowers greenhouse gas emissions globally, and helps Ireland hit its target of getting to 70%renewables by 2030.
Long Term Savings
Homeowners can cut their electricity bills by
50%
€20,000 of CO2 a year, the same as planting 100 trees. each year
Meet Hot Water Needs
Adding up to savings of or more over 20 years!
By adding a hot water diverter to your solar power system, you can heat your water during the summer season.
Improve BER Rating
Solar panels make your home more energy efficient, upping its BER rating.
Increase Property Value
Solar installations increase a home’s resale value by 3-4% because buyers will pay more for sustainable features and reduced operating costs.
Energy Independence
Solar energy reduces dependence on traditional power sources like oil and gas, and makes homeowners less reliant on the grid.
Energy Resilience
Solar installations make homeowners more resilient to energy crises, price fluctuations and supply disruptions.
The Installation Process
Start your Solar Journey today by taking these five simple steps
1. Speak
Call Pinergy Energy Consultants on 0818 363 749 and our experts will advise you on the best way for you to go solar.
2. Organise
Pick a date for the site survey, where one of our energy consultants will call out and discuss your home’s solar potential with you. They’ll chat through your current and future energy usage, review the layout of your home and recommend a custom solution to suit your particular needs.
3. Liaise
Our team will keep you updated throughout your solar journey. You’ll get a quote, and then, if you’re happy to go ahead, you’ll pay a deposit. We’ll help you access grants and funding, arrange for your house to be energy rated, and organise a team of our experienced installers to fit your panels and system.
4. Activate
After the previous weeks’ planning, it’s time for the install. Your solar system will be installed over two days - the panels will go in on Day 1, and the electrical setup will be done on Day 2.
5. Ready!
You’re ready to go! All the equipment is in, and you’re set up on the monitoring app. Not only will you save money, but you can also make money by selling the extra energy you generate back to the grid for others to use. Your Solar journey has begun!
Solar in Action - Customer Stories
How
going solar let Fintan keep costs down amidst the energy crisis
Rising Energy Costs on the Horizon
Fintan, an engineer working from home, anticipated an energy crisis with soaring prices. Concerned about the impact on his five-person household, he decided to go solar. With his experience in processing SEAI grants and noticing Pinergy’s involvement, he chose them for his green energy journey.
Keen to Get Up and Running
Despite rising electricity prices, solar panel costs had stabilised. After evaluating the numbers, Fintan opted for a roof-mounted, 4kw system of ten panels recommended by Pinergy’s expert. The installation went smoothly, with excellent support and communication from Jamie, Pinergy Energy Consultant.
Sustainable Success
Installed in August 2022, Fintan’s solar panels are already paying off, reducing the expected payback period from five years to three. The family monitors energy usage via an app and uses appliances during off-peak hours. With savings of €1,500 on electricity costs, a €600 government grant, and a €500 fit-back tariff reimbursement, Fintan didn’t pay a single electricity bill last year.
Solar in Action - Customer Stories
How Robert used Solar to maximise the efficiency of his existing energy upgrades
Making Home Heating Upgrades Work Harder
Robert Doyle, a BER assessor, upgraded his home’s heating system, insulation, and windows upon moving in a decade ago. Seeking long-term energy, money, and environmental savings, he chose Pinergy based on industry recommendations.
Splitting the System for Maximum Gains
Robert and Pinergy designed a bespoke solar solution for his five-person household with two home offices. They installed panels on all east and westfacing roofs, ensuring full energy coverage.
A No-Brainer Investment
The solar panels significantly boosted the home’s energy efficiency. Robert added a hot water diverter and an electric car charger, powered by the panels’ excess energy. His household adjusted habits to use appliances during peak solar times, reducing summer bills by 50% and winter bills by 15%. The investment improved the home’s BER rating, added value, and contributed to environmental sustainability. “It’s a no-brainer to invest in it,” Robert concluded.
Solar in Action - Customer Stories
How Solar Panels caused a ripple effect of sustainability for the Kents
Heat Pumps and High Bills
Thomas and Eileen Kent began their green energy journey by installing a heat pump, a sustainable energy source that increased their electricity bills. With three kids under ten, their five-person household was spending around €3600 annually on electricity. To offset this, Thomas chose Pinergy for their solar installation.
Using Solar Panels to Make Your Own Electricity
Adding solar panels allowed the Kents to generate their own electricity, reducing reliance on the grid and lowering bills. This sustainable change turned their home into a micro-generating system. Pinergy recommended and installed 21 ground-mounted panels at a 5-degree angle on their sloping site, 75m from the garage.
Microgeneration, Reduced Costs, and Changed Habits
Since last June, the panels have supplied 67% of the Kents’ electricity, significantly reducing their energy costs. The family now runs appliances when the sun is out and monitors their usage via an app and a Smart Meter. Microgeneration has also fostered friendly competition with Eileen’s father. While the primary goal was sustainability, the Kents are pleased with the financial savings and their positive environmental impact.
Why Partner with Pinergy?
When you choose Pinergy you get so much more than a Solar PV system.
Here’s what our partnership offers:
Expertise and Assurance
Our energy consultants help you understand your usage and savings, giving you personalised advice about your needs so you can make informed decisions about your energy future.
Free In-Person Home Survey
Our in-person home survey to assess your property’s suitability for solar panel installation is free of charge, giving you all the information you need, without any pressure to commit.
Customised Installation Design
Our installation design process is customised for your home to achieve the best performance and a minimally invasive, pleasing aesthetic.
SEAI Approved Solar Installer
We’re proud to be an SEAI approved solar installer. We adhere to the highest standards of quality and safety, making our installations eligible for grants and incentives.
Assistance with grant applications
We help you with all necessary grant paperwork and submissions so you can reduce your costs and get the best return on investment.
Finance Options Available
We offer flexible financing plans for all budgets, allowing you to spread the cost of your solar installation over time and start saving on your energy bills straight away.
Expert Customer Support
Feel supported and informed with access to an experienced customer support team who are ready to assist you every step of the way.
Are you ready to go solar?
Get in touch with our energy consultants today for a free consultation.
Phone: 0818 363 749
Email: solar@pinergy.ie
Website: www.pinergy.ie
Brighten your future by going Solar with
