With energy prices continuing to rise, many people are looking for ways to save money and lock in more predictable costs. As the price cap increases by 6.4% in April 2025, now is a great time to explore solar energy [1]. The longer days and extra sunlight in Spring make it the ideal time to discover how solar power can help reduce your energy bills.

Solar energy, a powerful and renewable resource, is harnessed using two leading technologies: photovoltaic (PV) panels and solar thermal systems [2]. Every 90 minutes, the sun provides enough energy to Earth to power the world for a year [3].

Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight directly into electricity. Made of semiconductor materials like silicon, the panels create an electrical charge when sunlight strikes them. Then, through an inverter, the charge is converted into usable electricity. On the other hand, solar thermal systems use mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight, generating heat. This heat can be used to produce electricity or supply hot water and heating [4].

How solar panels generate power

Solar panels comprise individual solar cells that generate electricity when sunlight reaches them. The sunlight excites the electrons in the cells, creating an electrical charge that flows through a circuit [5].

Solar panels are an excellent way to generate electricity. They’re commonly placed on rooftops or in large solar farms, where some systems use tracking technology to follow the sun’s path and maximise energy generation [6].

Challenges and limitations

Since solar panels depend on sunlight, their efficiency drops on cloudy days or at night [7]. With this in mind, a battery storage system is a worthwhile investment to maximise solar energy and store any extra power generated during sunny periods to use later [8]. 

Why choose solar?

Solar energy is a limitless, renewable resource that doesn’t produce harmful emissions like traditional fuels [9]. By harnessing the sun’s power, you can reduce fossil fuel use and take control of your energy needs. Installing solar panels helps lower electricity bills by generating your own power, and with battery storage, you can save excess energy to use at night or on cloudy days. 

The perfect time to switch to solar

With longer days and more sunlight, Spring offers excellent conditions to explore solar energy. The increased daylight boosts the efficiency of solar panels, making it a great time to start saving on your energy bills.

A bright future for solar

As solar technology advances, it’s becoming more affordable and accessible. With lower costs and improved efficiency, solar energy is set to play a key role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and fighting climate change.

References:

1. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgl0k772lwpo 
2. https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/how-does-solar-work 
3. ibid.
4. https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/how-does-solar-work 
5. https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zq6bydm#zcrb3j6 
6. ibid.
7. https://www.nationalgrid.com/stories/energy-explained/how-does-solar-power-work 
8. https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/how-does-solar-work 
9. https://www.nationalgrid.com/stories/energy-explained/how-does-solar-power-work