How Do Solar Systems Work?

Solar Panels or photovoltaic solar (PV) modules are mounted on your roof, patio cover, or on a ground rack on your property. The solar panels are made up of semiconductor materials called photocells which convert the sunlight to DC electricity. Sunlight contains photons which is a form of energy. When sunlight strikes the PV panels, the photons cause a chemical reaction and release the electrons that are contained in the photocells. The electrons then begin to flow, creating an electrical current and electricity.

• Inverter: The DC power generated by the photovoltaic solar panels is sent to the Inverter. The function of the Inverter is to convert the DC power being produced by the Solar Modules into AC power which is identical to the power supplied to your home or business by the Utility Grid. This way, the power produced by your PV system can be fed back into the grid and “stored” for later use.
• MAIN Electrical Panel: Also called the AC Breaker Panel. The power generated by your solar system supplies your electrical energy needs and any excess power travels through the AC Breaker Panel back into the Grid. This action makes your electric meter to go “backwards”.
• Net Metering: Throughout the year, your electric meter will go forward and backwards during the times when your electric usage is higher than what your system is producing, or when your system produces more than what your electric demand is at the time. If your system is sized properly, this will result in a “net” balance of zero at the end of the year so you will not owe to your electric company. The power company will credit your account for all of the power you produce throughout the year against your electric bill.