Solar energy is one of the most in-demand trades in the UK, with over 1.5 million homes now generating their own clean electricity. As the government accelerates plans for a solar rooftop revolution, understanding how solar PV panels work has never been more important. Whether you're a homeowner, business or energy professional, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What Are Solar PV Panels?
Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert daylight into usable electricity for your home or business. Unlike common assumptions, solar panels don’t need strong sunshine, just daylight.
PV panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, usually high-efficiency silicon, which absorb photons from daylight and create an electric field, generating direct current (DC) electricity. This process is known as the photovoltaic effect.
How Do Solar PV Panels Work Step‑by‑Step?
1. Daylight hits the solar cells
Solar panels absorb light and convert it into DC electricity. They continue to generate power throughout the year, even on cloudy days and during the UK winter, though with reduced output.
2. The inverter converts DC to AC
Because UK homes run on alternating current (AC), an inverter transforms the generated DC electricity into usable AC power.
3. Power your home
The generated electricity is used instantly to power appliances, reducing your dependence on the National Grid.
4. Store or export surplus energy
- Battery storage allows you to save excess electricity for later use.
- Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments allow you to export unused electricity back to the grid for a tariff.
Do Solar Panels Work in the UK Climate?
Solar panels work on cloudy days. Solar PV panels generate electricity from daylight, not direct sunshine, making them well-suited to the UK’s variable weather.
They work year-round. Winter output is lower due to shorter days and lower sun angles, but panels continue to produce energy throughout the year.
Types of Solar Panels Used in the UK
Monocrystalline Solar Panels (Most common in 2026)
High efficiency and the most popular choice for UK homes.
Polycrystalline Panels
Less common on new installs today, but still used for budget-friendly systems.
Thin‑Film Panels
Best for non-standard roof surfaces and specialist applications.
How Solar PV Panels Are Made
Most PV cells use silicon semiconductor layers treated to encourage electron movement. When sunlight hits the surface, photons energise these layers, generating electricity. This reaction forms an electric field, the basis of the photovoltaic effect.
Are Solar Panels Worth It in the UK?
For many UK households, solar panels reduce electricity bills, increase energy independence, and offer long-term savings. Systems last 25+ years, providing benefits long after the initial investment is repaid.
Government schemes like ECO4, the Warm Homes Plan, and 0% VAT on installations also improve affordability.
Why Solar Energy Is Growing Fast in the UK
The UK government has committed to major renewable energy expansion, and the Solar Roadmap outlines ambitious installation targets to reach 45–47GW of solar capacity by 2030.
This includes:
- Wider rooftop solar adoption
- More support for installers and the renewable workforce
- Stronger planning support for domestic and commercial solar
Solar PV Is a Smart Investment for UK Homes and Businesses
Solar PV panels are reliable, efficient and perfectly suited to UK conditions. With growing government support, rising energy prices and advances in technology, now is one of the best times to go solar.
At SERT, we support the renewable energy workforce with high-quality training and recruitment solutions, helping the UK meet its growing demand for skilled solar installers, electricians, and renewable technicians.