How Does Solar Work?

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If you’re considering making the switch to solar energy, now is a great time! Solar technology has advanced significantly in recent years and high-quality solar systems from trusted brands have become more affordable than ever. Investing in solar panels with our highly acclaimed business will ensure your system runs at peak performance for years to come. To gain further insight into how these solar systems function while powering homes, here are five fundamental steps that make up the process.

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1) Conversion

When sunlight hits a solar panel, solar energy from the sunlight is absorbed by the Photovoltaic (PV) solar cells in the panel. Each PV solar cell has a thin semiconductor wafer made from two layers of silicon. One layer is positively charged while the other has a negative charge, forming an electric field. When sunlight is absorbed by the PV solar cell, it energizes the cell and causes electrons to release from the atoms within the semiconductor wafer. The released electrons are set into motion by the electric field surrounding the wafer, and this motion creates an electrical current.

2) Inversion

The electrical current then flows through a series of conductors which moves it from the solar panel to an inverter. The inverter is the most complex and important piece of equipment in a solar power system, as it allows you to transform the direct current (DC) from the solar panel into an alternating current (AC).

3) Power Your Home

The inverter then sends the AC power to a breaker panel where it is distributed to circuits and outlets throughout the home, providing electricity for appliances, lights, and other electronics that run on standard household current. This process allows solar energy to be used for everyday electricity needs. It also enables homeowners to reduce their reliance on grid power, as well as their energy bills.

4) Measure Usage

Utilizing a smart electric meter can help you measure the electricity flowing to and from your home, and excess electricity that isn’t used or stored will be sent out to the grid, allowing you to potentially receive credit from your utility company.

5) Monitor Performance

All customers will be provided access to our mobile app where you can keep track of your system performance in real-time while also receiving insights and advice on how to improve its efficiency. With this app, you’ll be able to see exactly how much energy your system is consuming and receive timely alerts if any problems arise. We monitor our customer’s systems so frequently that our expert team of technicians can be prepared to solve a problem before it has been noticed.

If you are curious to learn more about how solar works, there is additional information from the Solar Energy Technologi es Office.