SOLAR PANELS MARBELLA, MALAGA

Solar panels collect clean green renewable energy in the form of sunlight and convert that light into electricity which can then be used to heat and power the home or business or charge electric products like electric vehicles. Solar panels are made of several individual solar cells, to create a solar panel and several solar panels make a system.

Solar panels absorb the photons from the Sun and in doing so initiate an electric current. The resulting energy generated from photons striking the surface of the solar panel allows electrons to be knocked out of their atomic orbits and released into the electric field generated by the solar cells which then pull these free electrons into a directional current. This entire process is known as the Photovoltaic Effect.

An average home has more than enough roof area for the necessary number of solar panels to produce enough solar electricity to supply all its power needs. A solar panel system will only work effectively if it’s kept in a clean, well-maintained state, and using our maintenance service will ensure this is the case. Please have a look at our solar panel maintenance page and have a look at our packages. Solar maintenance packages can be purchased separately, from our solar panel systems. – There is also an option of Soler Thermal Water Heating, if you only want a system to heat the water in the property. This is a solar panel system, with water pipes running through it, in which water is heated. 

Solar panels can be used to power a wide variety of devices and appliances, both in residential and commercial settings. Here are some examples:

Home electricity: Solar panels can be used to power your home’s lighting, appliances, and electrical systems. They can also be used to charge batteries for backup power during power outages.

Water heating: Solar water heating panels can be used to heat water for domestic use, such as showers, laundry, and dishwashing.

Pool heating: Solar panels can be used to heat swimming pools, via a swimming pool heat pump, reducing energy costs and extending the swimming season.

Transportation: Solar panels can be used injunction with a home EV car charger, to charge electric vehicles, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Outdoor lighting: Solar panels can be used to power outdoor lighting, such as security lights and garden lights

There are many advantages to installing a solar panel system to generate solar electricity, here are a few:

• It’s green: There are no pollutants produced while solar panels operate, so by using them you are using clean energy to power your home or business, reducing your carbon footprint and you are helping to protect the planet.
• Save money: Any electricity you produce is free of charge and you can use it to power anything within your home or business for free. This will of course lower your energy bills and save you cash in the long term.
• No planning permission: Installing solar panels doesn’t require special permission. Some rules need to be followed but mostly it’s simple.
• It’s renewable: The sun won’t be running out any time soon and they even work on cloudy days, so you should have plenty of free electricity all year round. Add a battery storage device to save any electricity you produce that you don’t use during the day and use it in the evening when the sun isn’t shining. It will cut your carbon footprint as a bonus too.
• Efficient all year: They can produce energy all year, not just when the sun shines most.

Are there any disadvantages? 

Yes, the main ones being the initial outlay and cost of the system itself. They have become cheaper and easier to manufacture meaning the cost of purchasing them has significantly lowered. Also, the savings you make on energy bills will in the end outweigh this initial cost.

Also, the next is the placement of the panels because of their dependence on sunlight. They are most effective in bright sunlight; however, they do work on cloudy days. They will not work during the night, as there is no daylight, but the best way to maximise their efficiency is by using a battery to store power ready to use during the evening.

Remember – The long-term benefit of installing a solar panel system, does outweigh the initial investment as it can save you money.

There are three main types of solar panels:

• Monocrystalline solar panels: These panels are made from a single, pure silicon crystal, which gives them a uniform dark appearance. They have the highest efficiency and power output among the three types, but they are also the most expensive.
• Polycrystalline solar panels: These panels are made from multiple silicon crystals, giving them a more speckled blue appearance. They have slightly lower efficiency and power output compared to monocrystalline panels, but they are more affordable.
• Thin-film solar panels: These panels are made by depositing a thin layer of photovoltaic material onto a substrate, such as glass or metal. They have the lowest efficiency and power output, but they are also the least expensive and can be more flexible in terms of installation.

The cost of solar panels can vary greatly depending on factors such as the type and quality of panels, the size of your solar system, and installation costs. On average, the cost of solar panels ranges from 2.50€ to 3.50€ per watt, with an average-sized residential system of 5 kilowatts (kW) costing between 12,500€ and 17,500€. This cost does not include incentives or rebates, which can significantly reduce the overall cost.

Solar panels generally have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, but they don’t suddenly stop working after that time. Instead, their efficiency and power output gradually declines over time. Most manufacturers offer a performance warranty, guaranteeing that the panels will produce a certain percentage of their rated power output for a specified number of years.

The amount you save with solar panels depends on factors like your electricity consumption, the size of your solar system, the cost of electricity in your area, and the availability of incentives or rebates. On average, homeowners can save between 10,000€ and 30,000€ over the lifetime of their solar system.

Yes, solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, but their output will be reduced. Depending on the cloud cover and the type of solar panels used, they can produce between 10% and 25% of their normal power output.

The installation process for a residential solar system usually takes 1 to 3 days, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation.

A battery is not necessary for a grid-tied solar system, as excess electricity can be fed back into the grid. However, having a battery can provide backup power during power outages and allow you to store excess energy for use during peak times, which can help you save on electricity costs.

The amount of roof space needed for solar panels depends on the size of the solar system you want to install and the efficiency of the solar panels you choose. As a rough estimate, you can expect to need about 100 square feet of roof space per 1 kW of solar capacity. For example, a 5 kW solar system would need approximately 500 square feet of roof space.

In the Northern Hemisphere, solar panels should ideally face south to receive the most sunlight throughout the day. The optimal tilt angle depends on your latitude, but a good rule of thumb is to set the tilt angle equal to your latitude minus 15 degrees in the summer and add 15 degrees in the winter. Some solar panel installations use tracking systems to automatically adjust the angle and direction of the panels to maximize their exposure to sunlight.

Solar panels require minimal maintenance, as they have no moving parts. The most important aspect of maintaining your solar panels is keeping them clean and free of debris, such as leaves, dust, and bird droppings, which can reduce their efficiency.

Cleaning the panels with water and a soft brush or using a professional solar panel cleaning service is usually sufficient. Additionally, it’s a good idea to periodically check your solar system components, such as the mounting hardware, wiring, and inverter, to ensure they are in good working condition.

Yes, solar panels can be installed on a flat roof. Flat roof installations typically use a mounting system that tilts the panels at the optimal angle to maximize sunlight exposure. Flat roofs can offer some advantages, such as easier access for maintenance and the ability to hide the solar panels from street view, depending on the roof height and parapet walls.

Maintenance of solar panels is typically straightforward. The panels are designed to withstand different weather conditions and generally require minimal care. However, to ensure optimal performance, periodic cleaning to remove dust, dirt, bird droppings, and other types of debris is necessary. This cleaning can usually be done using a simple garden hose.

If the panels are too high or the dirt is too stubborn, it may be necessary to hire a professional cleaner. Additionally, monitoring system performance can help identify any issues early. Many modern solar panel systems include real-time monitoring software that can be accessed via a smartphone or computer, which provides detailed statistics about power generation and consumption.

That said, an annual inspection by a professional solar panel technician can be useful to ensure the system is performing to its best capacity. They can check for any potential issues like loose wiring, damage to the panels or the supporting structures, and the inverter’s condition. Keep in mind, though, that any significant maintenance should be handled by professionals to avoid any potential safety risks or accidental damage to the system.

Whether or not a solar panel system can provide power during a power outage typically depends on the type of system and whether it includes a battery storage solution. Traditional grid-tied solar panel systems without a battery backup will automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, primarily to protect utility workers fixing power lines from generating electricity back into the grid.

On the other hand, solar systems with a battery backup can provide power during an outage. During regular operation, excess electricity produced by the solar panels charges the batteries. In the event of a power outage, the system disconnects from the grid, and the stored energy in the batteries can then be used to power your home. However, the amount of power available would depend on the size and capacity of the battery system. As such, critical loads or whole house systems should be designed considering usage during power outages.

Installing solar panels can potentially increase your property’s value. According to studies, homes with solar energy systems often sell faster and at a higher price compared to those without. This increase in property value can be attributed to the rising demand for energy-efficient homes and the cost savings associated with solar energy.

The exact impact on property value can vary based on several factors, including the size of the installation, the energy costs in the area, the age of the solar panel system, and the terms of the solar agreement if the system is leased rather than owned. The quality of the installation and the reputation of the installation company can also factor into how much value is added. However, it’s important to note that increased property value due to solar panels may also lead to increased property taxes, depending on local tax laws.

Yes, there are often financial incentives or subsidies available for installing solar panels. In Spain, both national and regional programs can offset some of the cost of installing a solar energy system. For instance, the national government has various plans under the National Energy and Climate Plan, aiming to increase the use of renewable energy. These include direct subsidies, tax benefits, and a simplified administrative process.

Regional governments also often have their own incentives and subsidy programs to promote renewable energy use. For instance, Andalusia and Catalonia have specific programs offering financial incentives for solar energy. Furthermore, in Spain, the excess energy you produce and feed back into the grid can be sold, providing another form of financial benefit. It’s recommended to research and consult with a solar energy provider or local government authority to understand all the available incentives and subsidies in your specific region.

The effectiveness of solar panels is directly related to the amount of sunlight they receive. Typically, a solar panel requires around 4-6 hours of peak sunlight per day to operate effectively. Peak sunlight refers to the intensity of the sunlight during midday, which is generally higher than that of the early morning or late afternoon. The more direct sunlight the solar panels receive, the more electricity they can generate.

That said, the amount of sunlight needed can vary based on several factors, including the specific location, the tilt and orientation of the panels, local climate, and the type of solar panels used. For instance, some newer solar panel technologies are more efficient and can generate adequate power with less sunlight. In Spain, due to the abundant sunlight, especially in the southern regions, solar panels can produce substantial amounts of electricity for most of the year.

Solar panels can indeed work in cloudy weather, although their efficiency is reduced compared to optimal, sunny conditions. Contrary to common perception, solar panels do not need direct sunlight to produce electricity – they need light, and they can still generate power from diffuse or scattered light, which happens on cloudy or overcast days.

It’s important to note, however, that the efficiency drop in cloudy conditions can be significant. A cloudy day may only allow for 10-25% of the usual solar panel output. Despite this, even in regions with many cloudy days, solar panels can still be a viable option for electricity generation due to their ability to produce power from indirect light and the cumulative power produced over the year. In Spain, the impact of cloudy days is less significant due to the high number of sunny days annually.

Solar energy has a significantly lower environmental impact compared to conventional energy sources. It is a renewable and clean energy source, meaning it does not deplete natural resources or directly emit greenhouse gases or other pollutants during operation. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, solar energy contributes to mitigating climate change and improving air quality.

The production and installation of solar panels do have some environmental impact, including the energy and materials used in manufacturing and the potential for waste at the end of the panels’ life. However, the life-cycle emissions (emissions from all stages, from production to disposal) of solar energy are much lower than fossil fuel-based energy. Advances in technology and recycling methods are also reducing these impacts further. Furthermore, solar power plants require no water to generate electricity, making solar energy a good choice in water-scarce regions.

While it is technically possible to install solar panels yourself, it is generally recommended to have a professional installation to ensure the system is safe, correctly installed, and efficient. Installing a solar panel system involves many steps, including correctly sizing and positioning the system, securing panels to the roof, electrical wiring, and connecting to the grid. These tasks require specific expertise and equipment, and mistakes could lead to poor system performance, damage to your home, or even safety risks.

Professional installers, such as Solares Energies, are trained and certified to handle these tasks. They can ensure the system is correctly designed for your property and needs, taking into account local climate, roof orientation, and local regulations. Furthermore, using a professional installer often comes with warranties and guarantees on the system and installation, providing peace of mind and protection for your investment.

Solar panel warranties can vary depending on the manufacturer and the installation company. However, typical solar panel warranties can be divided into two main categories: the performance warranty and the product or equipment warranty.

The performance warranty, also known as the power output warranty, guarantees that the panels will produce a certain percentage of their rated power output for a specific period. For instance, a common performance warranty might guarantee 90% production for 10 years and 80% for 25 years. This means the panels should still be producing at least 80% of their original output after 25 years of operation.

The product or equipment warranty covers any defects in the panel itself, such as issues with materials or workmanship. This warranty typically ranges from 10 to 12 years, though some manufacturers may offer longer periods.

It’s essential to carefully review the warranty terms when choosing your solar panels and ask your provider for any clarifications needed. At Solares Energies, we work with reputable manufacturers and offer comprehensive warranties to ensure our customers’ long-term peace of mind.

The time it takes to install solar panels can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the system, the type and condition of the roof, weather conditions, and the local permitting process. Generally, the physical installation of the panels onto the roof can be completed within a few days once work begins.

However, the overall process from initial consultation to the system being fully operational usually takes a few weeks to a few months. This includes site assessment, system design, obtaining necessary permits, installation, inspection, and grid connection. Some of these steps can be done concurrently, but some, like permitting and inspection, can add significant time to the process. At Solares Energies, we manage the entire process for our customers and aim to complete installations as efficiently as possible, ensuring minimal disruption for the homeowner.

Yes, even with solar panels, you will typically still receive an electricity bill, but the amount will likely be significantly less than before the solar panels were installed. How much less depends on various factors like the size of your solar panel system, your home’s energy consumption, and the local utility’s net metering policy.

In a net metering system, when your panels produce more electricity than your home uses, the excess is fed back into the grid, and you receive credit on your bill. You can then use these credits when your system isn’t producing enough electricity (like at night or during very cloudy days), offsetting the cost of buying electricity from the grid. However, there might still be some fixed charges from your utility, and if your system does not generate enough for your usage, you will have to pay for the extra electricity you draw from the grid.

When your solar panel system generates more electricity than you use at a given moment, the excess electricity is typically fed back into the electrical grid. This is facilitated by a bidirectional meter installed by your utility company.

Many regions, including Spain, have a system known as net metering, where the utility company gives you credit for the excess electricity you feed back into the grid. These credits can be used to offset the cost of electricity drawn from the grid when your system isn’t producing enough, like at night or during cloudy days.

At the end of the billing period, you are billed only for the “net” energy use (i.e., the amount of electricity used minus the amount of electricity produced). In some cases, if you produce more electricity than you use over the billing period, you may receive credit or payment for the surplus electricity.

Yes, it is generally possible to upgrade or expand a solar panel system in the future. However, the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of doing so depend on various factors, such as the available space, the existing system’s capacity, the inverter’s size, and the local regulations and utility policies.

If you anticipate the need to expand your system in the future, it’s a good idea to plan for this during the initial installation. For instance, choosing an inverter that can handle more capacity or designing the system layout to allow for additional panels. However, even without initial planning, expansion is often possible with some adjustments.

Upgrading to more advanced or efficient panels is also an option, though usually, it would only be recommended if the current panels are quite old or not performing well. Replacing working panels with slightly more efficient ones may not be cost-effective.

At Solares Energies, we work with our customers to design systems that not only meet their current needs but also accommodate potential future needs. We offer advice on all options and implications to ensure our customers make the best long-term decisions.