SOLAR PV

Edmund Becquerel discovered PV technologies as early as 1938. It was not until 1950/1960s that efficient working cells were produced. These cells convert photos in sunlight to electrical energy using thin layers of semi conductors most commonly silicon. A metal plate then conducts the electricity away from the cells as DC. The cell output is small therefore multiple cells are joined together to form modules which in turn are joined together to form an array.

UK SUITABILITY

UK receives 60%of the sunlight received at the Equator due to the intensity and angle of light. The type of panel you use increase the efficiency

Monocrystalline                         approx 15%
Polycrystalline                            approx 10%
Thin film                                      approx 7%
Hybrid                                         approx 12%
New breed technologies         approx 40%

So as you can see subject to your budget there is a big difference in performance that you can expect.
Planning permission may be required subject to the area you live in and permission from your designated supply (DNO) will be required.

Benefits

Reduced carbon emissions

Reduced fuel bills

Sell electricity back to supplier (when you are not using it)

Increased value and saleability on your property