Download pdf - Apple Solar Photovoltaic

S O L A R E N E R G Y

Home grown energySOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC

Organic Electricity

APP L E POWER

Contents Our aim is to help you understand solar energy..........................2

For us, the sun as a source of energy simply shines ....................5

Renewable energy? Things are looking up..................................6

Could solar energy save and make you money? .........................8

Apple is where homeowners always come first.........................10

When it comes to solar energy, things are warming up ............13

It's less about feeling the heat, more about seeing the light .....14

Photovoltaic solar electricity systems give you more choice .......16

The technology behind solar electricity .....................................18

How the sun can get you into hot water ..................................21

The benefits of a solar thermal system......................................22

Frequently asked questions .......................................................26

Your successful solar energy installation in 10 easy steps ..........28

What our customers say ...........................................................30

Apple Solar Energy 1


Renewables, carbon emissions,global warming, carbon footprints,wind power... the news headlineshave been full of this kind ofjargon and technical-speak forquite a while now. But what doesit all mean to you?

This brochure has been designed to help you cut through all the confusion and helpyou to make an informed decision aboutwhether solar energy is the right choice for you, your home, your lifestyle and, of course, your pocket.

In the world of renewable energy there aretwo important factors 1. Scientists believe the world is warming up

and that warming presents a real threat tothe planet and, therefore, our future. Ourcarbon emissions – especially from heatingand lighting our homes – play a big part in global warming and need to be reduced.Using more renewable energy generatedthrough sustainable means (such as solarenergy) could help us to do just that.

2. Plus, and you won't need reminding aboutthis, the cost of energy for heating andlighting our homes from fossil fuels justkeeps rising.

These two factors have motivatedhomeowners like you to look at alternativeenergy sources. However, the upfront costs ofinstalling an alternative energy source – suchas solar panels – has frankly made theirinstallation difficult to justify for many people.

Now, that's all changed! As you may know, the recent introduction of attractive Government backed tariffs (Feedin Tariff or F.I.T, as they are known) forrenewable energy generation have mademany homeowners right across the countrythink again.

And now renewable energy for the home –your home? – makes sense ecologically and,most importantly, economically.

Here at Apple, we've taken a long, hard lookat all the popular alternative and renewableenergy sources for the home, from wind towater power. We'd like to explain to you thepros and cons of each on the next page.

Our aim is to help youunderstand solar energyLower energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint and extraincome... what's not to love about solar energy?



There are a number of differentrenewable energy choicesavailable to you and we'veoutlined the advantages anddisadvantages of each below.

WindAdvantages: Wind is free, the energy from itcan be stored in batteries for times when theturbines are still. The UK has nearly half ofEurope's total wind energy.

Disadvantages: Wind turbines for yourhome can be a bit of an eyesore, tend to benoisy and vibrate. None of which endearsthem to your neighbours!

Air source heat pumps Advantages: Good for low grade heat andhot water generation and need virtually nomaintenance.

Disadvantages: Space is required around the units as they need room to receive a goodflow of air. Plus your home's insulation willprobably need to be upgraded and unless youhave underfloor heating – with which they are best suited to work – you may need tochange to it to get the full benefits.

Ground source pumpsAdvantages: As the ground 3 metres belowthe surface stays a constant temperature allyear round, you could rely on a steady supplyof energy for heating and hot water.

Disadvantages: Heat is generated at only afairly low temperature, which is why – like airsource systems – this option is better suitedfor use with underfloor heating. A trench orbore hole needs to be dug in your garden to lay the necessary pipework. This can beinconvenient if you have a small garden andnear impossible if you don't have one.

Hydro electricityAdvantages: A clean, cost effective energy source.

Disadvantages: Not many of us live near a legally accessible, fast and consistentlyflowing water course!

From our extensive research into renewableenergy sources we believe that solar power – using light from the sun – is the mostconvenient, simple and cost effective way forward.

For us, the sun as a source of energy simply shinesWhen it comes to alternative energy sources...you have lots of alternatives to consider.



We believe that solar energyrepresents your best chance of cost effectively and convenientlyreducing your energy bills andcarbon footprint. In addition, you will be able to generate an income from the energy the panels produce.

But it's not what's best for us that counts,it's what's best for youSo, as we said at the beginning of this brochure,our aim is to enable you to make the rightdecision about solar energy and whether it'sright for your home.

As part of that, we'll provide you with honest,objective and transparent advice.

Your home and situation is unique, so ourservice is tailored to your individual needsWhen considering solar energy for your home,there are a number of important factors to takeinto account. Here they are in outline:

*Is your home suitable?The orientation of your home or the presenceof nearby trees or tall buildings may adverselyimpact on a solar energy solution.

*Irradiation levelsIrradiation levels vary across the country. So we'll explain what they're like in your area,to give you an understanding of just how muchenergy can be generated from the sun whereyou live.

*The pitch and position of your roofThe angle of your roof and the way it faces arealso important considerations in the success ofa solar energy system. Don't worry though, wecan easily measure your roof and work out howmuch space, and in which position, you haveyour panels.

*Photovoltaic or Solar Thermal?Again, don't worry about the jargon. The first of these options, Photovoltaic (sometimesknown as PV or Solar Energy) generateselectricity for your home. The second option,Solar Thermal, simply heats your water. We'llhelp you decide which is best for your homeand your needs.

*Your lifestyleThe way you and your family live and useenergy is obviously important in your choice of a renewable solution.

Renewable energy? Things are looking upHelp power your home with the sun and Apple


*Your expectationsApple will give you a clear, realistic and practical idea of what solar energy can deliver to you, sothat the benefits you and your family actuallygain match your expectations.

*CostsWe will tell you, in an honest and straightforward way, what your installation willcost, how much money it could save you andhow much you make through incentives such as the Feed in Tariff.

Myth bustingThere's a lot of hype surrounding sustainableand renewable energy sources. So here are a few facts about solar energy:

• There are two types of solar energy system:Photovoltaic, which generates solar electricityand Solar Thermal, which heats water.

• In the UK, the sun radiates, on average, theequivalent energy output of about 1,000power stations.

• Though every location in the country couldbenefit from solar energy, the amount of irradiation which falls on different areas ofthe UK varies. This means that the powergenerated from solar energy varies too, depending on where you live.

• Solar energy systems work all year round, because they use light from the sun not heat, although they do produce more energyin the summer months.

• Solar panels work best on south facing roofs, but work in west or east facing locations as well.

• Planning permission is not usually required to install solar panels. You will require BuildingRegulations approval. Don't worry, our expertswill look after that aspect for you.

• The government's green energy initiativesmean that solar energy systems have nevermade as much economic sense as they do now.

We can't just 'give you a quote' and youcan quote us on that!When it comes to choosing the right solar energy solution for you, your home and yourpocket, there are simply too many variables andissues to be carefully considered before we cangive you an accurate estimate of the costs andbenefits involved. So please don't ask for a 'ballpark figure' over the phone!

Channel Islands


If you install a renewable energysolution – such as solar – thereare government schemes whichcan help to save and possiblyeven make you money. Here's anidea as to how the two currentschemes work:

Feed in Tariffs (or F.I.T) for Solar ElectricitysystemsDon't just generate electricity, you could generate payments as well...

• Your energy supplier will pay you a set rate for every unit or kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity you generate. This tariff willcontinue for 25 years, the payments are tax free and increase in line with inflation.

• For every unit of energy you generate butdo not use and export to the grid you willreceive an additional payment.

So, as a result of installing a solar energy system for your home, your bills will be lowerbecause you're buying less electricity fromyour supplier and your income will be higherfrom your Feed in Tariff.

Renewable Heat Incentive for Solar Thermal systems There is a limited budget available for the Renewable Heat Premium Payment incentive of£300 and can be applied via the Energy SavingsTrust from 1st August 2011 untill the 31st March2012 and then the second phase will be releasedas part of the ‘Green Deal’ in 2012.

Could solar energy save and make you money?Government incentives mean that by reducing your CO2emissions you could actually receive payments!


How the tariff works

Until smart meters are introduced into UK homes, it is deemed that50% of the electricity that is generated is exported back to the grid and the other 50% is used in your home.

USE &SAVE

EXPORT& SELL

Total benefitand

savings

=Generate


We have been in the business of offering our customers moneysaving home improvements for over a decade now. These include:

• Roofline products that include, fascias, soffits, guttering, and A rated energy efficient windows and doors.

• Innovations, such as solar energy that help people reduce their energy bills, their carbon footprint and their reliance on non-renewable fuel.

Setting the standard that sets Apple apartOur solar energy systems are always tailored exactly to your needs, your lifestyle and your home.

Our service starts with a full technical survey undertaken by one of our experts and only thenwill we tell you in a clear, concise and objectiveway exactly what solar energy can – and can't –do for you. If it's not suitable for your home orits situation, we'll tell you straight away.

And your service ends with our full guarantee,for your complete peace of mind.

Why Apple is good for youWe promise that this is what you can expectfrom us:

• Detailed discussions regarding your situation,the right solution for your home and whatyou can achieve from it.

• An accurate idea of how much energy youcan generate, what it will cost and what itwill save you.

• A clear description of the governmentschemes available and how each could help you generate an income as you generate power.

• An accurate, objective opinion on your suitability for solar energy. If any aspect of yourhome or its location makes it unsuitable – suchas the way it faces, lack of available space toaffix panels, overhanging trees or other shadedconsiderations – we'll make it clear.

• Calculations based on every aspect that may effect the efficiency of your solar energy system, from the way y our family uses electricity to the amount of sun yourhome receives.

• High quality, excellent value products; fullytrained and qualified professional installationteams plus helpful, friendly service and support at every stage of the process.

Apple is where homeowners always come firstWe thrive on saving people money




You can select from either aSolar Electricity System (knownas a PV or Photovoltaic system)which generates electricity, or a Solar Hot Water system (solarthermal) which heats your water.

Alternatively, you can choose to install both.We will advise you on the potential of thesystems to help you make an informed choice.

Solar energy – thenThough both types of solar energy systems use solar collectors that are generally roofmounted, those you probably saw most of in your area over the last few years werefor heating hot water. Traditionally, this typeof system was more popular.

Solar energy – nowWith the introduction of the government'sFeed In Tariff there has been a markedincrease in the number of Photovoltaicsystems now being installed.

In Germany, where the climate is almostidentical to ours, there has been a ten foldincrease in the installation of Photovoltaicsystems since their government introduced a tariff in 2004.

Similarly, the introduction of the RenewableHeat Premium Payment is also expected tolead to an increase in demand for solar hotwater systems.

When it comes to solar energy,things are warming upA Photovoltaic or Solar Hot Water system? You decide


A common myth is that solarelectricity generation depends onheat or direct sunlight. Not true.It is dependent on light intensity.Which is why it works onovercast days and during thewinter months.

Another important fact about solar energy isthat there are no emissions or moving parts.Maintenance, therefore, is as good as nil.

How solar electricity systems workPut simply, solar panels installed on your roofcreate (DC) direct power. This is converted to230v AC, via an inverter, and is then fed intoyour home. Actually, this is similar to the wayelectricity is supplied by your conventionalenergy company. Then, if you generate anysurplus energy in this way, it is automaticallychannelled into the national grid through yourconsumer unit.

If you are considering a Photovoltaicsystem, consider these factors first:

• Solar panels work most efficiently ifmounted on the south facing roof of your home. However we design bespokesystems for southwest, southeast and westand east facing roofs.

• The pitch of your roof will have a bearingon your system's efficiency, as will its size.The more panels you install, the more lightcan be captured and the more energy youcan generate.

• Properties with north facing, thatched,asbestos roofs, have overhanging trees orhave shadows from surrounding propertiesare usually unsuitable for a solar energy system.

• Listed buildings will usually be subject toplanning restrictions which can make itdifficult to install a solar energy system.

It's less about feeling the heat,more about seeing the lightUnderstanding solar electricity systems


People without solar electricitysystems have no option but tobuy all their electricity from onesupplier at a time, and have littleprotection against rising energyprices.

However, install an Apple solar energy systemand not only can you supply a portion of yourown electricity needs, you can sell any surplusback to the grid and earn a return throughthe Feed in Tariff (F.I.T).

And not only could you enjoy the benefitsthrough reduced power bills, the planet andfuture generations will benefit too, throughreduced carbon emissions.

Photovoltaic solar electricitysystems give you more choiceIncrease your options and your money saving potential

Bluetooth output display unitOur controllers play an integral role in your solar solution.

Informative, compact and easy to operate, the output display unit with Bluetooth is an innovativemonitoring solution. Key data is visible on its large graphic display, including a daily profile,

current output, as well as daily and total energy yield.

The energy yield can be shown in pounds, and the CO2 savings can all be accessed with one hand.



Our solar electricity systems are a highly efficient, cost effectivemethod of harnessing the sun'srays and converting them toelectricity for your home.

Our innovative and leading edge photovoltaicmodules work in this way:

• Our high performance photovoltaicmodules, better known as solar panels, aremanufactured from multiple interconnectedpolycrystalline silicon solar cells.

• They are linked together to form what is known as a photovoltaic string.

• As ours is a bespoke system, the array canbe designed, dependent on your roof'ssize, your needs and your budget.

• We will ascertain the correct size of arrayneeded to generate the right amount ofsolar electricity for your home.

• The array is then securely fastened to theroof of your home using tough, longlasting and reliable aluminium mountings.

• The cells of your array capture solar energyand convert it into direct current (DC),which is fed through cables to yourinverter. This is carefully selected to matchyour array and optimise its output.

• Your inverter converts the direct current(DC) from the panels to alternating current(AC), which is fed via a meter into your home.

• Your meter records how much electricityyou are generating for your Feed in Tariff.

The technology behind solar electricityHow it works

The components of your system

Solar panelsApple’s solar panels are engineered from siliconlayers which respond to light radiation togenerate direct current (DC). They aremanufactured with 60 individual solar cells,linked together to form a photovoltaic module.Then, a number of modules are connected tocreate a photovoltaic array, designed to generatethe optimum electricity.

The more panels you install the more electricityyou will generate but we will advise you on theoptimum number for your individual situation.

InvertersDomestic electricity systems which power the homes of the UK run at 230v alternatingcurrent (AC). The inverter changes the directcurrent (DC) from the solar panels on yourroof to alternating current (AC). As no twosystems are necessarily the same, neither will the choice of inverter that's best suited to your home and installation. As the aim isto maximise the output from your solarpanels, without effecting the aesthetics ofyour home, your inverter will usually beinstalled in your loft.

IsolatorsFor your safety and peace of mind we installisolators into your system. This safety deviceprotects electricians who may be required toaccess or service the system in the future.

WiringYour solar system is wired into your home'sexisting electrics by one of our expert andqualified electricians. They will install yournew solar system and your solar generationmeter to record the amount of free electricityyour solar array generates.



Q: When will my solar P.V. energy system work?

A: Daylight hours. Essentially, solar panels absorb sunlight togenerate energy. So while they work best on long summer dayswhen there is the most sunlight, they still generate energy in winter.

Q: How much can a solar energy system save me?

A: This depends on many factors, such as the location of yourhome, the position and angle of the roof, your lifestyle and soon. This is why we prefer to see and discuss these factors withyou before providing you with an accurate estimate of theenergy you are likely to generate and the savings you might enjoy.

Q: What is the best position for solar panels on my roof?

A: South facing locations perform best, followed by south westand then south east locations. A west facing roof is better thanan east, whilst north facing and shaded locations are unsuitable.

Frequently asked questions Photovoltaic (P.V.)

From our extensive experience of designing and installing solar energy systems, we've compileda shortlist of frequently asked questions regarding the subject.

We hope the list of FAQs below helps you but if there are still any questions you have or issuesyou'd like to discuss, please do not hesitate to call us on 0800 808 9237 or send an e-mail [email protected] or visit www.applesolarenergy.com


Q: What sort of roofs are not suitable for solar panels?

A: Solar panels cannot be fitted to asbestos or thatched roofs.

Q: Do I need planning permission?

A: Usually you don't, however it is worth checking with your planningauthority, if you live in a listed building or a conservation area.

Q: Is installation a lengthy process?

A: No, our average installation takes around one to two dayssubject, of course, to the size and complexity of your installation.

Q: If I'm away and not using the energy I'm generating, what happens to it?

A: Any surplus electricity generated by a PV system is automatically fedback to the grid and for this you will automatically receive a furtherpayment per kWh. On the other hand, if you have a solar thermalsystem that heats your hot water, it’s temperature will be maintainedin holiday mode meaning your boiler will have to work less and you'llstill save money.

Q: Can one of your solar energy systems provide all my power needs?

A: Sadly not. At night, for example, or when you are using a lot of power or water, your system will need to be augmented by energy from conventional sources to maintain a constant supply.

Q: I've heard I can make money from solar energy systems, is that true?

A: Yes.With the Feed In Tariff (FIT) system available on a PV system, you are currently paid a fixed charge per unit for theelectricity you generate that you use. Plus a further payment per unit for the electricity you don't use and export to the grid, which is index linked.

In addition, of course, you are saving money by not having to pay for electricity you generate and use yourself.

As we said right at the beginningof this brochure, your home, your lifestyle, your budget andyour energy usage are all unique.So we'll tailor our solar energysystems to suit you.

Right from the very start of the process we want to ensure that we understand your needsand aspirations as much as you understandwhat Apple solar energy can do for you, fromthe costs to the possible savings.

First and foremost we need to be suresolar energy is right for your homeSo we'll check:

• The amount of irradiation in your area

• The aspect of your home

• How much space you have available so we can design the right sized system

• Anything that will impede the efficiency of your solar energy system, such as overhanging trees or chimneys.

We'll do all we can to ensure the system youbuy is right for you, not for us. And only onceyou are completely happy, will we plan andimplement your system for you, at a time thatsuits you, so you can start saving money andcarbon emissions.

Your successful solar energyinstallation in 10 easy stepsNo two installations are the same

10 EASY steps to save money


1 Your first step to a solar powered homeCall us free on 0800 808 9237, or e-mail [email protected] or visitwww.applesolarenergy.com to make anappointment with one of our specialist team.They'll answer all your questions, fully discuss andunderstand your individual requirements and thengive you a free no obligation quotation.

6 Working from the outside inThe external elements of your solar panel installationtake place, with secure fixing to your roof.

2 Getting it right, first time Your Apple solar energy surveyor is equippedwith a software application which willprovide you with specific details of yourlocation, your roof angle and orientation toensure solar energy is right for your home.

7 Moving insideWe then install the internal components of yoursolar system, creating the minimum of disruptionand ensuring a neat and professional finish.

3 Attention to detail ensures successA more detailed survey will follow from your consultation. Our expert surveyor willthoroughly check your roof and take the precisemeasurements that we need for installation.

8 Switch on and testOnce all the installation work has been completedand all connections made, we switch on, test anddouble check that every aspect of your installationis functioning correctly.

4 Respecting the lawTo save you the time and trouble, we willobtain Building Regulations approval on yourbehalf and thus ensure that your installationcomplies with the appropriate regulations.

9 Getting the best from your systemOnce your new solar system is complete, we will show and fully explain how it works,so you can gain maximum benefit from it,from day one.

5 The scaffolding goes upWhen required we will erect appropriatescaffolding to ensure the safety of both youand our installers during installation.

To find out how you could reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint, while increasing your income from generatingelectricity you don't use, call free on 0800 808 9237, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.applesolarenergy.com

10 An after sales service that's simply second to noneOur comprehensive ten year guarantee isdesigned to give you complete peace of mindand covers your entire solar energy system.


Our promise, is to make you happyWhat our customers have to say...

“The installation was quite rapid and wentsmoothly and so here is a short progressreport on the very first month of installationof my PV panels. The first 28 days in July gave me 484kW. This is very encouraging as this year July was overcast on quite a few days here on the Sussex coast because of sea mist.

“I was very amused to see the meter merrily spinning backwards when the sun was shining.”

Professor Peter TownsendBrighton

Sussex



“I would just like to say how happy I was with the information given by the surveyorprior to installation and as promised the work was completed within the timespecified, even though the electrician had to work in extreme heat.

“With west facing orientation we haveachieved 20kwh.”

Mr and Mrs GarwoodPetersfield Hampshire



“We recently had PV panels fitted by AppleSolar to our property in Christchurch. We are more than satisfied with the work whichwas carried out and would like you to pass on our sincere thanks to all involved.

“Suffice to say, the system is working very well and even at this time of the year we are gaining more units of electricity than we use on sunny days. What is reallysatisfying is seeing the disc on our electricmeter go backwards and the units used decrease!”

Ken and Jenny ParkinsonChristchurch

Dorset



“My wife and I are very pleased with our Apple solar panels that have been fitted to our bungalow.

“I must say the service we received was firstclass from start to finish.”

Mr and Mrs AndersonHedge End

SouthamptonHampshire


“We should like to congratulate Apple SolarEnergy on their efficient and friendly service forthe installation of our Solar Panels. We werevery relieved to learn that all of the panel fixingwas carried out from the outside and thescaffolders were able to take all the scaffoldingdown the following afternoon. The inverter wasfitted with a Bluetooth transmitter, so we areable to monitor performance without having toclimb into the loft! So after just under 4 days wehave generated 30KwH, in cloudy weather withonly about 30% sunshine. Our best day yielded11.4KwH (with 8 panels).”


Peter & Clare Hill Hayling Island

Hampshire


“A manager came to give an explanation ofhow the system works and the electricity itcould produce. Arrangements were made fora surveyor to check the number of panelsordered were correct and would fit.

“Installation was booked and the work wascompleted in 2 days. The Apple work teamwere all very efficient and carried out theirwork professionally. We are extremelypleased with the system.”

Mr and Mrs YollandWest End

SouthamptonHampshire


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