This article is written by Mark at FIGJAM SOLUTIONS LTD, Market Harborough:
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Solar power is energy captured from sunlight. The sun sends vast amounts of energy to Earth every day—and thanks to solar technology, we can collect that energy and turn it into electricity or heat to run our homes, charge electric vehicles, and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
The foundation of a solar energy system is the solar panel, which converts sunlight into electrical energy. Here’s a step-by-step look at how it all comes together:
Capturing the Sun’s Energy
Solar panels are built from photovoltaic (PV) cells, commonly made from silicon that has been purified and crystallised from quartzite rock. (Not to be confused with silicone, the material used for bathroom sealants!) Quartzite is a widely available natural resource.
Generating Direct Current (DC)
When sunlight hits the PV cells, it energises electrons within the silicon, creating a direct current (DC) of electricity that flows in one direction toward an inverter.
Converting to Alternating Current (AC)
The inverter transforms this DC electricity into alternating current (AC), the standard form of electricity used in households.
Using and Storing the Energy
Your home appliances run on the electricity produced. Any extra power can be stored in a battery for later use or sent back to the energy grid.
There are two main ways we harness the sun’s power:
Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
These are the most familiar type, converting sunlight straight into electricity. You’ll often see them installed on rooftops and solar farms.
Solar Thermal Systems
Rather than producing electricity, these systems concentrate sunlight to produce heat—ideal for warming water. In residential settings, these usually appear as tube-based panels on rooftops. They’re extremely efficient for heating but not designed for electricity generation like PV systems.
Environmentally Responsible
Solar is a clean, renewable resource with zero emissions or air pollutants.
Significant Cost Savings
Using solar panels can drastically cut your energy bills—and in some cases, eliminate them altogether.
Greater Energy Autonomy
Generating your own power means less dependence on utility providers and more control over your usage.
Low Maintenance
Once installed, solar systems are robust and require little ongoing attention.
Smart Financial Move
Though there’s an upfront investment, solar energy can offer long-term returns through savings and government-backed incentives.
Before deciding, it’s worth considering:
How much sunlight your property receives
Roof direction, pitch, and potential shading
Local electricity tariffs and available solar incentives
Whether you’ll need battery storage for night-time or backup use
Figjam Solutions offers expert assessments to help you evaluate your solar potential with confidence.
Learning how solar energy works is the first step toward adopting a greener, more independent way of powering your life. Whether your priority is cutting costs, gaining energy independence, or reducing your carbon footprint, solar energy—especially when combined with battery storage—offers a compelling, future-focused solution.
Ready to explore the possibilities?
Get in touch with Mark at Figjam Solutions today:
Email: sales@figjamsolutions.com
Mobile: 07841 910671
