Solar PV: What is it?
Marcus Elliott • July 13, 2022
Solar photovoltaic panels or solar PV are solar panels which can be used to generateelectricity for homes and businesses. Increasingly popular, solar PV panels offer a practicaland flexible renewable system that’s rapidly growing in popularity.
Fitting easily into contemporary lifestyles, solar PV panels don’t need it to actually be sunnyoutside to work. They transform direct sunlight into electricity so solar PV panels will stillwork on a cloudy day – essential for the changeable weather we have here in the UK.
Steadily growing in popularity since the 1990s, solar PV systems are set to play an importantrole in our low carbon future. Lasting for decades with affordable purchase and installation costs, solar PV systems are super-easy to maintain and pretty much look after themselves.
Here’s all you need to know about what solar PV is, the benefits it can offer you and the costs involved in installation.
Solar PV: What is it?
What is Solar PV?
Solar photovoltaic panels (solar PV for short) take their name from the photovoltaic effect which is where light is transformed into electricity. Absorbing light through panels made from materials which are semi-conductors, such as silicon, solar PV can generate electricity to power homes and businesses.
Solar PV panels come in a wide range of sizes and are most commonly installed on top of roofs.
They can be made from:
- Microcrystalline: Formed from single crystals of silicon, microcrystalline solar panels are expensive because they offer superb efficiency, with the power to produce energy in all seasons. Microcrystalline panels are easy to identify because they are black.
- Polycrystalline: Composed of many silicon crystals, polycrystalline solar panels are quicker to manufacture making them more affordable. However, polycrystalline offers a lower level of efficiency so these blue solar panels are better for use in areas where levels of sunlight are high.
- Thin Film: Offering low efficiency, thin film solar panels are integrated or mounted onto panes of glass for use in things like windows or power stations.
The history of solar PV panels
The earliest use of photovoltaic energy was back in 1839 when the photovoltaic effect was used to create the first solar cell.
Take a look at the rooftops in your local area and you’ll be surprised at how popular solar PV panels have become, accounting for around 3% of energy produced worldwide. Installation has grown since the 1990s with a sharp uptick in the number of PV systems in use in domestic homes in recent years.
In fact, solar PV is now the third most popular type of renewable energy after wind and water. As we get closer to our low carbon future, numbers are set to rise because solar PV is easy to install and use, offering the flexibility we need for modern living.
How do solar PV panels work?
A solar panel consists of a collection of up to 96 solar cells able to produce around 275 watts of electricity as a collective. Finished with robust glass, each cell inside a solar PV panel absorbs light from the sun, energising the electrons (or other type of charged particle) contained inside to create an electric current.
Solar panels can be installed on the: ground, wall, roof or as a floating installation.
Solar PV vs Solar thermal
Solar PV panels are not to be confused with solar thermal panels. Although they may look similar when installed on the roof of a property, the two types of solar panels each perform their own function.
Solar PV panels generate electricity whilst solar thermal panels use heat from the sun to heat water for domestic or commercial use.
Just to confuse the matter, if you wanted an all-round solar heating system you could install both PV and thermal panels to provide your heating and hot water.
Solar PV panels cost around £1000 more to install than solar thermal panels. However, solar PV panels are the most practical option because they’ll remain effective in any season.
Why use Solar PV panels?
The benefits of using solar PV panels are many, here’s the top four advantages solar PV offers:
Low costs: Not only is light from the sun free and ever-present, solar PV panels are also likely to require no further maintenance once installed.
With installation possible from as little as £1000 and an ever-growing number of green grants available from the government, solar PV panels are an excellent low cost option. Reduce carbon consumption: Solar-powered energy means you’ll lower your household carbon consumption aiding the fight to slash global greenhouse gas emissions.
Suitable in all weathers: Absorbing light from the sun, you can use solar PV panels all year without worry.
Fits easily into existing lifestyles: The most popular location for the installation of solar PV panels are on the roof which means eliminates the inconvenience of extensive work inside your home. Once installed, you can continue to enjoy electricity as you did before.
If required, you could install a hybrid system which enables you to use solar energy alongside a second back-up option, if necessary. Talk to an expert about the best solar PV system for your home.
How much do solar PV panels cost to install?
One of the great things about solar panels are that they are installed as panels so you can create arrays with a bespoke number of solar panels to both fit your roof and budget.
Of course, you need to ensure the number of solar panels you install will provide a sufficient quantity of electricity for your home so talk to an expert installer to understand how many panels you’ll realistically need.
Have you heard about the Home Upgrade Scheme (HUG) Grant? You could get money off the cost to purchase and install solar PV panels if you’re eligible. Currently it’s open to those with household incomes of less than £30,000. Discover more about the HUG Scheme.
On average, UK homeowners tend to spend around £1000 - £6000 to purchase and install solar PV panels on the roof of their home.
Give us a call today to learn more about solar PV panel installation or other renewable ways to power your London home or business. Call us today on 0207 272 2259 or send us a message.
The UK government has committed £6 billion to support the transition to a more energy efficient housing stock. This funding is being channelled through schemes such as the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF), ECO+, and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). For councils, housing associations, and residents, these initiatives present a significant opportunity to upgrade homes, reduce carbon emissions, and tackle fuel poverty. The SHDF is one of the most important funding streams for local authorities and housing providers. It is designed to improve the energy performance of social housing, focusing on properties with the lowest EPC ratings. The fund supports insulation, heating upgrades, and renewable technologies, with the aim of bringing homes up to EPC C or better. Councils that act early can secure grants to deliver large scale programmes while meeting government targets for decarbonisation. ECO+, also known as the Energy Company Obligation Plus, extends support to a wider group of households. It targets those who may not qualify for other funding but still live in inefficient homes. Measures such as cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, and heating system improvements are covered, giving residents access to affordable upgrades. For councils and housing associations, ECO+ can be combined with other schemes to maximise funding opportunities. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme focuses on encouraging the installation of low carbon heating systems, including air source and ground source heat pumps. With grants available to offset upfront costs, BUS helps homeowners and landlords move away from fossil fuel heating. This is particularly relevant as gas boilers are gradually phased out in favour of renewable alternatives. While the funding opportunities are substantial, navigating the application and compliance process can be complex. Each scheme has strict eligibility criteria, technical requirements, and reporting obligations. Councils and housing associations need experienced partners to prepare bids, manage compliance, and deliver works to PAS 2030 and PAS 2035 standards. TF Energy has extensive experience supporting clients through these processes. We provide accurate surveys, detailed programme planning, and full documentation to ensure applications are successful and funding is secured. Our proven track record with local authorities such as Camden, Newport, and Bristol shows how structured delivery and compliance-focused project management make the difference between approval and rejection. The £6 billion pipeline represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform housing stock and improve living conditions. With the right support, landlords and councils can unlock funding, deliver compliant projects, and create warmer, greener, and more affordable homes for their residents. TF Energy stands ready to guide clients through every step of the process.
Successful retrofit programmes rely not only on technical delivery but also on how well residents are supported throughout the process. For councils and contractors, managing expectations and minimising disruption are as important as meeting compliance standards. TF Energy’s experience across large scale housing upgrades highlights the value of a structured, resident focused approach. Preparation begins before a single tool arrives on site. Residents need clear information about what will happen, when, and how it will affect them. Providing easy to understand guides, holding pre start meetings, and offering direct points of contact reduces anxiety and builds trust. For many households, retrofit works represent a major upheaval, so reassurance and transparency are essential. One best practice is to agree practical arrangements in advance. This can include setting up zones for tools and materials, identifying safe spaces for storing possessions, and clarifying access requirements. By involving residents in these decisions, contractors avoid misunderstandings and create a sense of partnership rather than intrusion. Communication must continue throughout the programme. Regular updates, check ins, and feedback opportunities help residents feel listened to and respected. Simple steps, such as explaining daily work schedules or providing notice of noisy activities, go a long way towards maintaining goodwill. TF Energy ensures site teams follow a clear code of conduct so that professionalism is upheld at every stage. Contractors also need to consider vulnerable residents. Older tenants, families with young children, or those with health conditions may need extra support. This might involve scheduling works around medication times, ensuring heating and hot water are restored quickly, or arranging temporary accommodation if major disruption is unavoidable. Councils benefit from having a partner who anticipates these needs and provides tailored solutions. Another vital aspect is managing the resident handover once works are complete. Demonstrating new systems, explaining maintenance requirements, and providing written instructions ensure residents can fully benefit from the upgrades. For example, after an air source heat pump installation, clear training on controls helps households save energy and lower bills. When residents feel informed, respected, and supported, retrofit projects run smoother and with fewer delays. Councils can meet compliance targets while maintaining positive community relationships, and contractors can deliver works without avoidable setbacks. TF Energy’s structured resident engagement process has proven successful across projects in Camden, Newport, and Bristol, offering a model for others to follow. Retrofit is about more than buildings. It is about people, and preparing residents properly ensures that sustainability targets are achieved while communities remain at the heart of the journey.
Across the UK, councils are under pressure to upgrade their housing stock in line with government targets. Meeting EPC requirements, improving living standards, and cutting energy costs all depend on effective retrofit delivery. TF Energy has worked with local authorities including Camden, Newport, and Bristol, providing valuable insight into how large-scale programmes can succeed when managed correctly. One of the biggest challenges on any housing project is resident engagement. Homes are not empty shells, they are lived in by families, older residents, and vulnerable tenants who all have different needs. Work must be carried out while minimising stress and disruption. TF Energy addresses this by preparing residents before projects begin. Information packs, prestart meetings, and clear communication channels ensure people know what to expect. From setting up designated tool zones to arranging safe storage of possessions, these steps build trust and reduce conflict once work is underway. Sequencing the works is another area that requires experience and careful planning. Retrofit programmes often involve multiple trades, from insulation and heating engineers to scaffolders and renewable specialists. Without clear coordination, delays and clashes are inevitable. TF Energy has developed a structured process for sequencing, allowing different phases to flow smoothly. This approach shortens programme timelines, reduces costs, and ensures projects remain compliant with PAS 2030 and PAS 2035 standards. Compliance is non-negotiable. Councils and housing associations must be able to evidence that installations meet strict quality and safety regulations. TF Energy supports this by embedding robust record keeping into every stage of delivery. Digital monitoring, site inspections, and a strong installer code of conduct provide the “golden thread” of accountability that regulators and council’s demand. The recent Camden projects highlighted the importance of balancing technical upgrades with resident wellbeing. For example, during insulation works in high density housing blocks, clear scheduling and resident liaison meant works were completed without long term disruption to tenants. In Newport, where heat pump pilots were introduced to schools and homes, the lessons learned were used to refine methods before rolling them out more widely. Bristol projects reinforced the value of early survey accuracy, as identifying property specific issues in advance avoided costly changes later. Large scale retrofit is complex, but it is achievable when supported by the right partner. TF Energy’s experience shows that combining resident care, precise sequencing, and strict compliance results in programmes that deliver real improvements for councils and communities. These lessons will shape future housing upgrades and help local authorities meet their ambitious sustainability goals.
Across the UK, councils are under pressure to upgrade their housing stock in line with government targets. Meeting EPC requirements, improving living standards, and cutting energy costs all depend on effective retrofit delivery. TF Energy has worked with local authorities including Camden, Newport, and Bristol, providing valuable insight into how large-scale programmes can succeed when managed correctly. One of the biggest challenges on any housing project is resident engagement. Homes are not empty shells, they are lived in by families, older residents, and vulnerable tenants who all have different needs. Work must be carried out while minimising stress and disruption. TF Energy addresses this by preparing residents before projects begin. Information packs, prestart meetings, and clear communication channels ensure people know what to expect. From setting up designated tool zones to arranging safe storage of possessions, these steps build trust and reduce conflict once work is underway. Sequencing the works is another area that requires experience and careful planning. Retrofit programmes often involve multiple trades, from insulation and heating engineers to scaffolders and renewable specialists. Without clear coordination, delays and clashes are inevitable. TF Energy has developed a structured process for sequencing, allowing different phases to flow smoothly. This approach shortens programme timelines, reduces costs, and ensures projects remain compliant with PAS 2030 and PAS 2035 standards. Compliance is non-negotiable. Councils and housing associations must be able to evidence that installations meet strict quality and safety regulations. TF Energy supports this by embedding robust record keeping into every stage of delivery. Digital monitoring, site inspections, and a strong installer code of conduct provide the “golden thread” of accountability that regulators and council’s demand. The recent Camden projects highlighted the importance of balancing technical upgrades with resident wellbeing. For example, during insulation works in high density housing blocks, clear scheduling and resident liaison meant works were completed without long term disruption to tenants. In Newport, where heat pump pilots were introduced to schools and homes, the lessons learned were used to refine methods before rolling them out more widely. Bristol projects reinforced the value of early survey accuracy, as identifying property specific issues in advance avoided costly changes later. Large scale retrofit is complex, but it is achievable when supported by the right partner. TF Energy’s experience shows that combining resident care, precise sequencing, and strict compliance results in programmes that deliver real improvements for councils and communities. These lessons will shape future housing upgrades and help local authorities meet their ambitious sustainability goals.
The government has set ambitious energy performance targets that will reshape the housing and property sector over the next decade. By 2027, all rental properties must reach an EPC rating of C, with a further requirement for an EPC rating of B by 2030. These deadlines apply to both social housing providers and private commercial landlords, and the consequences for failing to meet them are serious. Properties that do not comply will face penalties, risk becoming unrentable, and may lose long term value. For local authorities, the challenge is twofold. They must upgrade their own housing stock while also ensuring private landlords comply with the regulations. Councils are being asked to balance limited budgets, government targets, and the practical realities of improving older homes that often have structural and design challenges. Housing associations and local authority landlords face additional pressure because their properties must remain safe, habitable, and affordable for residents during the retrofit process. Commercial landlords face a different but equally demanding situation. Many office blocks, retail units, and mixed-use developments still fall below the required standard. Upgrading these buildings will often involve major fabric improvements, renewable energy installations, and modern heating systems. The cost of non-compliance could result in vacant buildings, reputational damage, and lost rental income. TF Energy is actively supporting clients to prepare for these changes. With experience delivering retrofit programmes across London, Bristol, Newport, Hampshire, and many other regions, TF Energy understands the complexity of managing large scale projects. Our teams help structure and phase works so that disruption is minimised, and residents remain fully informed. By applying tried and tested processes, we ensure programmes are completed on time and in line with PAS 2030 and PAS 2035 standards. Preparation is key. A strategic approach, starting with accurate surveys and clear planning, ensures landlords and councils can meet the targets without last minute rushes or unnecessary costs. TF Energy provides end to end support, from detailed property assessments to installation and final compliance checks. Our project management expertise allows us to deliver on housing stock upgrades, civic buildings, schools, and commercial portfolios. The 2027 and 2030 EPC requirements are not optional. They are part of the UK’s wider commitment to net zero, lower energy consumption, and improved living standards. Landlords and local authorities who act now will be better placed to meet deadlines, protect asset value, and contribute to a more sustainable built environment. TF Energy stands ready to help clients navigate this critical transition.
Commercial property owners are facing the prospect of tougher efficiency rules in the coming decade. Evidence is building that Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) will rise significantly. The current threshold for many properties is EPC E, but proposals suggest this could be lifted to EPC B by the mid-2030s. If adopted, this would represent one of the biggest regulatory shifts for the commercial real estate sector in years. Properties that fall short would be unable to be leased, creating major financial risk for landlords and investors. For those managing large portfolios of offices, warehouses, and retail spaces, the potential scale of upgrade work is vast. The challenge is that many commercial buildings were not designed with efficiency in mind. Older stock in particular is difficult to retrofit, with poor insulation, outdated heating systems, and limited space for renewable technologies. Bringing these properties up to EPC B will require more than basic improvements. Whole-building strategies will be needed, combining fabric upgrades such as insulation, glazing, and ventilation with renewable systems like heat pumps, solar PV, and battery storage. Standard trades including heating, plumbing, and electrical works will also form part of the solution. For landlords, the key issue is cost and planning. Retrofitting at scale requires careful sequencing, strong supply chain partnerships, and a clear understanding of compliance requirements. Those who wait until regulation is enforced risk higher costs, contractor shortages, and long periods where assets cannot be legally let. TF Energy is ready to support clients through this transition. Our approach combines compliance expertise with practical delivery. We manage the documentation and standards while providing hands-on installation across all measures, from insulation and renewables to mechanical and electrical upgrades. By planning now, commercial landlords can spread costs, protect asset value, and avoid being caught out by future deadlines. The direction of travel is clear. Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards will only tighten, and the timeline is already being discussed. For landlords who act early, the opportunity is not just about compliance but also about reducing running costs, attracting tenants, and strengthening long-term investment performance.
The UK government is consulting on new rules that could significantly raise the standards for socially rented homes in England. The consultation, running from July to September 2025, proposes setting a minimum EPC requirement for properties managed by local authorities and housing associations. The target under discussion is moving towards EPC C by 2030 , bringing social housing in line with the wider push for higher efficiency across the property sector.  Currently, many socially rented homes have very low EPC ratings. This not only leads to higher energy bills for tenants but also contributes to fuel poverty and poor living conditions. The proposed changes aim to tackle these issues head-on by ensuring homes are warmer, more efficient, and cheaper to run. For local authorities, this would mean legally binding obligations to upgrade their housing stock over the next five years. The scale of the challenge is significant. Social landlords manage millions of properties, many of which are older and harder to retrofit. Meeting EPC C will require widespread fabric upgrades such as insulation, ventilation, windows and doors, along with renewable technologies including heat pumps and solar PV. Standard trades such as heating, plumbing, electrical, and building works will also play a key role in achieving compliance. While the consultation signals strong intent from government, it also raises concerns for housing providers already struggling with budget pressures and resource constraints. Funding routes exist, but accessing and managing them can be complex. The risk is that without the right expertise, projects stall or fail to deliver the required outcomes. TF Energy is well-placed to support this transition. Our teams specialise in large-scale retrofit projects, combining compliance expertise with hands-on delivery. We help councils and housing associations navigate documentation, design effective upgrade programmes, and carry out the installations needed to raise EPC ratings. With experience across fabric, renewable, and traditional trades, we provide complete solutions that deliver measurable improvements for residents while keeping organisations on track with government targets. If the proposals are adopted, the clock will be ticking for social landlords. Acting early will reduce costs, secure reliable partners, and ensure housing stock is improved in a way that benefits both tenants and communities.
Across the UK, a shift is taking place in how people view energy efficiency. For years, the market has been flooded with smart gadgets promising to save money and cut carbon. From Wi-Fi controlled plugs to app-based heating add-ons, homeowners and businesses were encouraged to believe technology alone could transform energy use. Now, the reality is setting in. Many of these products deliver little more than novelty, with users admitting they see no meaningful reduction in their bills. Recent surveys show growing regret among households and businesses that invested in flashy tech without addressing the fundamentals. The lesson is clear. Energy efficiency must be built on measures that deliver measurable impact, not gimmicks that look good but change little. The real value lies in proven improvements. Fabric upgrades such as insulation, double glazing, and controlled ventilation reduce heat loss at source. Heating system upgrades, from efficient boilers to modern heat pumps, cut ongoing consumption. Renewable technologies such as solar PV and battery storage allow clients to generate and use more of their own energy. Each of these measures provides tangible benefits in the form of lower bills, higher EPC ratings, and improved comfort. For landlords and commercial property owners, focusing on these no-nonsense improvements is also the only way to remain compliant with upcoming regulations. By 2027, rented properties must reach EPC C, rising to EPC B by 2030. Smart gadgets alone cannot bridge that gap. Whole-building solutions are required, integrating both traditional trades and new technologies in a way that makes properties future-proof. At TF Energy, we focus on what works. Our role is to cut through the noise of the latest fads and help clients invest where it matters most. We combine fabric improvements, renewable systems, and standard trades into tailored packages that achieve compliance, reduce costs, and deliver long-term value. In a time when energy prices remain volatile and regulatory deadlines are approaching fast, clients are looking for results they can see and measure. Real efficiency, not gimmicks, is what makes the difference.
The government has set ambitious targets for energy efficiency, but for many property owners the gap between regulation and reality is widening. By 2027, all rented properties must achieve EPC C. By 2030, the requirement increases to EPC B. These deadlines are fast approaching, and the cost of failing to comply is significant. Properties that do not meet the standard will not only face penalties but could become legally unlettable.  The challenge is scale. Commercial landlords and portfolio owners are looking at entire building stocks that need urgent upgrades. Many older properties were built with little thought for insulation, ventilation, or renewable technology. Retrofitting them to modern standards is not a simple task. It requires careful planning, major investment, and access to a skilled supply chain that is already under strain. For many owners, the biggest concern is feasibility. The cost of whole-building upgrades can be daunting, particularly when factored across large portfolios. Add to that the uncertainty around government guidance and the limited availability of trusted installers, and it is clear why so many property managers feel exposed. Waiting until the last minute is a high-risk strategy, but many are unsure how to move forward. The practical reality is that no single measure will deliver compliance. Most buildings require a package of improvements, from fabric upgrades such as insulation, glazing, and ventilation, through to renewable technologies like heat pumps, solar PV, and battery storage. Sequencing these works properly is just as important as the measures themselves, as poor planning can lead to wasted investment or failed compliance checks. TF Energy bridges this gap between ambition and delivery. Our role is to manage the compliance process, handle the documentation, and deliver the practical works on site. We cover everything from assessments and design through to full installation, including standard trades such as heating, plumbing, electrical, and building works. By combining technical expertise with hands-on delivery, we help clients meet regulatory demands without unnecessary cost or disruption. The regulations are not going away. Owners who act now will spread costs, secure reliable contractors, and protect the value of their assets. Those who delay risk being left behind with properties that are both non-compliant and unlettable.
The UK is investing heavily in social housing upgrades, with billions now being directed towards energy efficiency. These programmes are designed to cut bills for low-income households, reduce carbon emissions, and help meet national climate targets. For councils and housing providers, this funding represents both an opportunity and a challenge. Earlier this year, the government announced a £1.8 billion investment into home energy-saving upgrades. The funding is focused on practical improvements such as insulation, ventilation, heat pumps, and solar panels. These are the measures that deliver immediate results by reducing energy consumption, lowering household costs, and improving comfort for residents. Alongside this, the National Wealth Fund has stepped in with £250 million in guaranteed loans to support social housing retrofit projects. Combined with other financial support, this brings the total package close to £1 billion in additional backing for housing providers. The intention is clear: push local authorities and registered social landlords to accelerate retrofit delivery across their housing stock. While the money is welcome, accessing and using it effectively is not straightforward. Funding often comes with complex criteria, strict reporting requirements, and tight deadlines. Many councils and housing associations struggle with the administrative side of these schemes, leading to delays or missed opportunities. The reality is that technical knowledge, project management, and compliance expertise are just as important as the funding itself. This is where TF Energy provides real value. We support local authorities and housing providers by focusing on the delivery phase. Our teams specialise in whole-building retrofits, covering fabric upgrades such as insulation, windows and doors, along with renewable technologies including air source heat pumps, solar PV, and battery storage. We also manage the standard trades such as heating, plumbing, electrical, and building works, ensuring every project is completed to PAS-accredited standards. By working with TF Energy, clients gain a trusted partner who understands both the compliance landscape and the practical realities of installation. The result is projects that deliver measurable improvements for residents, meet government targets, and make best use of available funding.  The government’s message is clear. Social housing providers are expected to act now and improve the performance of their stock. With the right partner, these projects can transform homes, reduce bills, and leave a lasting positive impact on communities.
