How Solar Systems Work

How Solar Systems Work

  1. Solar Modules

    Solar modules are usually mounted on your roof, but can also be installed on the grounds of your property or on an adjacent structure such as a garage. The panels are comprised of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into DC power.

  2. Inverter

    The power generated from the modules is sent to an inverter which converts the DC power into AC power; “standard” household electricity identical to what you receive from the utility grid.

  3. Electrical Panel

    AC power from the inverter travels to your electrical service panel or breaker box. The system is connected to your service panel through a circuit breaker and is then distributed to any electrical loads in your home.

  4. Utility Meter

    Whenever your solar system provides more power than you are currently using in your home, the excess power will flow into the grid through your electric meter. This will cause your meter to run backwards earning you a credit with the utility company.

  5. Utility Grid

    You remain connected to the utility grid so power is always available when you need it, even at night and during the day when your demand exceeds your solar production.

Tags: ,

Are you a California homeowner interested in solar? Get a free solar financial analysis from Renewzle and find installers in your area.

Get Started

Recent News

  • Renewable Energy Increases Home Values

    BuildingGreen.com features a story on the value that renewable energy can add to a home. Amy Levin, a realtor who completed a LEED platinum registered gut rehab in Washington, DC, had her home appraised at 10% higher value than comparable properties. Interested buyers made offers that exceeded her green investment costs, even [...]

  • Top 10 Renewable Energy Technology Gadgets

    There are a lot of cool gadgets out there, but there’s a fine line between what’s cool and what’s useful. This is a green list of gadgets that are useful, but boast the extra-cool factor of using renewable energy. No batteries required!
    10. The Ship has Landed
    The lightship is a solar-powered LED mounted on suction cups. [...]

  • National Renewable Energy Lab Sets Record for Solar Cell Efficiency

    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory in the United States has announced that a new device developed by its scientists can convert 40.8 percent of light that hits it into electricity. This bests the previous record of 40.7 percent set by a different organization.
    According to NREL spokesman George Douglas, the new device is both thinner and [...]

  • 1 Block Off the Grid Rolling Out California’s Largest Community Solar Initiative

    San Francisco-based 1 Block Off the Grid (1BOG) announced today that it is teaming up with Real Goods Solar for a 100-home solar campaign in the city. 1 Block Off the Grid is an initiative set on driving renewable energy adoption for residential use through the use of education, private finance, and community purchase programs.
    Essentially, [...]

  • Solar Power Clothing Makes Charging Electronic Devices Easy

    Solar-powered clothing could be the next big trend for environmental enthusiasts. Researchers at North Carolina State University have designed a process called digital textile printing that makes it possible for solar panels to be fitted into jackets and ties.
    The wearable solar panels act much like batteries when energized. With a consistency similar to paper, the [...]

  • See All News