How Solar Works
The benefits of generating electricity from solar power are tremendous. Electricity that is generated from the sun produces no harmful emissions or pollutants. With a solar energy system, you can contribute to the sustainability of the environment, reduce your energy costs for the long term and become more socially responsible.
What makes up a Solar Energy System
Solar energy systems consist of solar panels that are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells which transform light photons into electricity, and inverters that serve as power converters.
“Grid-Tied” solar panel systems that are connected to local utility companies require a utility interactive DC to AC inverter that converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the PV array into alternating current (AC) electricity typically required for use in homes and offices. Inverters also have built-in safety features required to connect to the local power grid.
How Solar Energy Systems Work
During the day when the sun is shining, your solar energy system is generating electricity. If you’re away from home or not consuming electricity, it is fed through a meter to the utility grid. If you could see your meter, it would actually be spinning backwards, banking a credit for you.
In the evening after the sun is down and you begin consuming electricity from the utility company, you begin to utilize those credits that you have accrued during the day. The utility company is required to credit you for the amount of electricity your system generates. By properly sizing your solar system to cover your electricity usage, you can greatly reduce or totally eliminate your monthly costs for electricity.
How Solar Energy Systems are Installed
Because of their design and function, solar energy systems are easy to install and service, requiring minimal to no maintenance. Self-contained and modular, solar panels can be designed to accommodate a variety of installation options—on the roof, ground, adjacent to building structures and on customized mounts.
