How It Works

A picture of a Stratford Energy Solutions van.

Photovoltaics Cells – consists of multiple PV cells which are the basic building blocks these cells are made of semiconductor materials, often silicon.

Generation of electricity – when sunlight hits the solar cells, it excites electrons within the semiconductor materials, creating an electrical current. The process is known as the photovoltaic effect.

Inverter Conversion – generated direct current (DC) is then passed though an inverter which converts it into alternating current (AC). Most electrical appliances and the grid use AC power.

Utilisation – The converted AC electricity can be used to power homes and businesses. Excess electricity can be fed back into the grid or stored in batteries for later use.

Let’s break it down…

Understanding solar

Solar energy is converted into DC voltage by PV panels on roof

Inverter converts DC voltage into ‘useable’ AC voltage

The generation meter records production

Electricity generated used in household appliances during the day

Surplus energy can be used to charge a battery for use when generation drops

Unused electricity fed back into national grid

Image of a deconstructed Solar Panel showing the different technologies in the Solar Panel

All Solar panels are ​the same? Right? ​No!

Stratford Energy Solutions work with all major brands but recommend SunPower panels.

From the moment it’s switched on, a SunPower® system generates more energy than conventional panels, and keeps providing value when other brands fade. SunPower panels are backed by the industry’s best 40-year combined Power, Product & Service warranty.

SunPower’s Maxeon technology is the most advanced type of solar cell available today. Conventional solar cells lose power over time because of corrosion and breakage. The unique design of SunPower solar cells eliminates 85% of the reasons that conventional cells fail.

This means over 25 years they will generate up to 60% more energy with power output guaranteed at 92% in year 25. Maxeon Solar Panels are designed to be durable and that is why SunPower predict a useful life of more than 40 years.