Solar cells

Solar cells convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. When sunlight hits the surface of the solar cell, an electric current is created by electrons being released from the solar cell material, usually silicon. This current is then converted into alternating current via an inverter and can be used in the household or fed into the electricity grid.

The cost of installing solar cells varies depending on the size of the system, the condition of the roof, and the complexity of the installation. For a medium-sized system of around 5 kW, the cost can be between SEK 100,000 and 200,000. Government subsidies and grants can reduce this cost.

The savings depend on the size of the system, your electricity consumption, electricity prices and the amount of solar radiation. A well-dimensioned solar cell system can save an average home owner between SEK 5,000 and 10,000 per year on the electricity bill. The savings increase if electricity prices rise or if you have the option of selling excess electricity to the grid.

In many cases, a building permit is not needed if the solar cells follow the slope of the roof and do not affect the appearance of the building or technical requirements such as fire and construction. Exceptions may exist in certain municipalities or for buildings with cultural and historical value. It is always best to check with your municipality before installation.

Solar PV systems often have a lifespan of 25-30 years. During this time, their efficiency can decrease slightly, typically by about 0.5% per year. After 25 years, most solar PV systems are still operating at about 80% of their original capacity.

Surplus electricity, that is, electricity that is produced but not used in the household, can be fed into the electricity grid. Many electricity companies offer compensation for this surplus electricity, which can further reduce your energy costs and provide a source of income.

A typical solar cell system of around 5 kW requires approximately 25-35 square meters of roof space. To maximize efficiency, the roof should be free of shadows and ideally oriented to the south, southeast or southwest.

Yes, solar cells work efficiently in Sweden as well. Despite fewer hours of sunshine than in southern Europe, solar cells can still generate significant amounts of electricity. Sweden's long summer days and modern solar cell technology contribute to good production even in northern regions.

Solar cells can increase property value by lowering future energy costs and improving the building's energy efficiency. Many buyers see solar systems as an attractive investment, which can lead to a higher selling price.

Solar cells require minimal maintenance. It is recommended to inspect the system regularly to ensure it is working efficiently. Cleaning of the panels may be necessary occasionally to remove dirt, leaves or snow that can block sunlight and reduce efficiency.

Solar cells are the devices that convert sunlight into electricity, while solar panels are the devices that contain multiple solar cells and are used to generate electricity from the sun.

Although the performance of solar panels can be affected by cloud cover, they can still generate electricity even in cloudy conditions. Solar panels work by absorbing the sun's light, not necessarily direct sunlight.

Yes, solar panels can be used to heat water through the use of solar collectors. Solar collectors use the sun's heat to heat water and can be used to supplement or replace traditional water heaters.