Even in Britain, where the sun shines all too infrequently, solar energy can account for around two thirds (65%) of your annual hot water needs.

Solar electricity systems capture the sun’s energy using photovoltaic (PV) modules. The cells convert the sunlight into electricity, which can be used to run household appliances and lighting.

Solar PV systems are subsidised by the government through the Feed-in tariff which means you will be paid for all the electricity your system produces.

Solar energy begins with the sun. Solar panels, also known as photovoltaics, are used to convert light from the sun, which is composed of particles of energy called "photons", into electricity that can be used to power electrical loads. Light from the sun is a renewable energy resource which provides clean energy, produced by solar panels.

PV modules are solar panels that you can attach to your roof or walls. Each module is made from one or two layers of semiconducting material, usually silicon. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers. The stronger the sunshine, the more electricity is produced.

Solar modules come in a variety of shapes and colours, from grey "solar tiles" that look like roof tiles to panels and transparent cells that you can use on conservatories and glass.

The strength of a PV cell is measured in kilowatt peak (kWp). That’s the amount of energy the module generates in full sunlight.

It is a common misconception that solar panels only work in direct sunlight. PV cells don't need direct sunlight to work - you can still generate some electricity on a cloudy day.

The amount of electricity production with solar PV depends upon the amount of radiation of light. Optimum conditions would be full sun, but electricity will still be generated on a cloudy day but at a lesser rate.

To tell if solar electricity is right for you, there are a few key questions to consider:

• Do you have a sunny place to put it? You’ll need a roof or wall that faces within 90 degrees of south, and isn’t overshadowed by trees or buildings. If the surface is in shadow for parts of the day, your system will generate less energy.
• Is your roof strong enough? Solar panels are not light and the roof must be strong enough to take their weight, especially if the panel is placed on top of existing tiles. If in doubt, ask a construction expert or an installer.
• Do you need planning permission? In England, Wales Scotland and Northern Ireland, you don’t need planning permission for most home solar electricity systems, as long as they’re below a certain size – but you should check with your local planning officer, especially if your home is a listed building, or is in a conservation area or World Heritage Site.