Solar Energy for Homeowners: Comprehensive Details about Residential PV Systems

Pakistan is indeed suffering from an energy crisis. With extremely harsh weather, high electricity tariffs, and unbearable load shedding, it is difficult for Pakistani people to sustain everyday life. As a result of unexpected load shedding, home chores, and other daily tasks get disturbed.

Solar energy is a dependable source of energy that provides you with comfort, security, and uninterrupted electricity for your home.

Here, we will discuss everything about solar energy for homeowners so that it becomes easy for them to make an informed decision.

Let’s begin.

Residential Solar Systems - Everything Homeowners Should Know

A residential solar power system sets you free from paying high electricity bills while providing enough  energy supply to your home appliances. Moreover, homeowners can make money from the surplus energy their home PV system generates from the process called net metering. 

This comprehensive guide to residential solar systems focuses on helping homeowners understand the working principle, installation, and need for solar systems.

What is Solar Energy?

Solar energy is the electricity produced by sunlight. Solar panels or receivers capture the sunlight and transform light energy into electrical energy using the light photons. The concept behind solar energy generation is known as the photovoltaic effect. That’s why solar panels are commonly known as PV or photovoltaic panels.

How Do PV Panels Work?

PV panels work on the photovoltaic effect. They capture sunlight and transform the light energy packets or photons into electric power, either directly supplied to homes and buildings or stored in the battery for future use.

Apart from PV energy production, another technique to generate solar power is concentrated solar power, in which mirrors are used to reflect sunlight to receivers that transform the light energy into heat which is then converted into electricity. CSP, or concentrated solar power production, is ideal for commercial use and is unsuitable for residential use.

Why Should You Power Your Home With Solar Energy?

Solar panel installation is a one-time investment to unlimited energy supply. Moreover, solar power is an escape route from high electricity bills. Besides, you can also make money from the extra energy produced by your residential solar plant.

What is Net Metering?

Net metering is a settlement between the solar power plant owner and utilities in which the surplus energy produced by the solar panels is distributed to the electric grids for public supply. The grid gets electricity to fulfill energy needs, and the solar panel owner gets compensation for selling the energy. 

When Should You Go Solar?

You can power your home with solar energy anytime you want. It is a one-time investment, and if you can afford the installation and maintenance of a solar power project, you must opt for it. 

Tip: Solar panel rates reduce in the off-season, i.e., fall and spring. Buying a PV system for your home during these months would save you a lot of money.

Also Read: Residential Solar Energy Systems in Pakistan - Types & Capacity

How to Start the Process of Solar Power Installation?

Homeowners can do energy audits of their residential places and contact local solar panel installation service providers for further assistance. Based on your house energy requirements, the professionals will assist you with picking the right solar system for your home and provide mapping and installation services. 

Is Your Home Suitable for Solar Panel Installation?

Residential solar panels are ideally positioned on south-facing roofs of homes located in the northern hemisphere with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees. PV panels installation needs clear space where sunlight can directly strike upon the solar cells. The rooftop of a residential property is ideal for solar panel installation. However, if the roof is covered with trees or any high-rise building obstructs the direct sunlight, solar panels will be installed somewhere else where direct sunlight is available.

How Much Power Can a Residential Solar System Generate?

Residential PV systems come in different types and capacities. Most home solar systems can generate between 250 to 400 watts. It depends on how many PV cells are installed on your home solar system. You can choose from 3kW, 5kW, and 10kW solar systems for your house. 

Are There Any Hazards of PV Systems?

PV systems are safe. Solar panels are eco-friendly as they emit 0% of GHG while producing electricity. Moreover, all solar power systems undergo inspection and testing standards while manufacturing. The electrician inspects residential PV systems before installation to ensure the plan covers your building, electrical, and fire codes.

Also Read: The Solar Panel Paradigm - Residential VS Commercial PV Systems

Summary

Transitioning to renewable energy is a smart choice for homeowners. Pakistan is already in hot waters regarding electricity supply and tariffs. Opting for solar power would self-sustaining residential places while compensating homeowners through net metering.

Currently, various solar power companies are operational in Pakistan providing high-quality installation services, and one of them is [add company name]. You can reach out to professionals anytime and get quotations and consultation on installing solar power systems at your house.