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Solar PV (photovoltaic) uses energy from the sun to create electricity to run appliances and lighting. PV requires only daylight, not direct sunlight to generate electricity and so can still generate some power on a cloudy day.
Photovoltaic systems use cells to convert sunlight into electricity. The PV cell consists of one or two layers of a semi conducting material, usually silicon. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers causing electricity to flow. The greater the intensity of the light, the greater the flow of electricity.
PV cells are referred to in terms of the amount of energy they generate in full sunlight, know as kilowatt peak or kWp. The main house at iCapannini will utilise approximately 6kWp of energy from this source, with the smaller property requiring about 1.5 kWp. Installation costs are approximately £5,000 for each kWp installed.
Installation costs are mitigated in the short term, through the generation of surplus energy, which will be sold back to the energy company Enel and in the longer term by significantly reduced energy bills and maintenance costs.
PV systems produce no greenhouse gases. A domestic system can save over 5 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year, adding up to almost 120 tonnes over a system's lifetime.
Grid connected systems require very little maintenance, generally limited to ensuring that the panels are kept relatively clean and that shade from trees has not become a problem. The wiring and components of the system should however be checked regularly by a qualified technician.
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