Solar Photovoltaics (PV)
Generating electricity from the sun in the built environment
Solar PV installations are building momentum at a remarkable rate across Europe and the rest of the world. This is owing to the numerous benefits of solar arrays, including:
- A visible commitment to climate change, reducing impact on the environment and demonstrating corporate social responsibility
- Few maintenance requirements
- Durable, high performance systems
- Lucrative Feed-in-Tariffs proposed for 2010
- Low noise output and minimum environmental impacts
- Fewer planning restrictions
- Calculated output over the course of a year
- Experienced supplier and installer base
Solar PV systems are commonly installed on rooftops or can be assembled as ground-mounted arrays. The cells convert solar energy into electricity via the photovoltaic effect. There is no doubt that solar energy will play a major part in the future of renewables, as the technology is one of the most highly efficient, sustainable solutions.
In the past, the capital cost of solar panels has affected the technology's market penetration, but thanks to Government funding mechanisms, the economic viability of solar energy is improving dramatically.
Furthermore, PV-generated electricity correlates well with commercial use, because the power is available when it is needed most - during daylight hours. This also offsets the purchase of power at peak times.
PV panels are less expensive than many types of stone building facades, and can be integrated into existing structures or during construction. The solar systems can be installed on pitched or flat roofs, with PV cells embedded into many types of roof including tiles and thermoplastic membranes.
Darwind guides clients through every aspect of PV system development. The technical team have vast experience in developing commercial solar energy from concept to detailed modelling and design, to supply, installation and commissioning.
The directors have experienced of developing PV under the differing requirements of several European countries. It can also assist with finance of systems and the trading of RECs (Renewable Energy Certificates), Feed In Tariffs (FIT) and exported power.