June 12, 2018
Thinking of switching to solar but not sure how it works? Read this step by step process on how we convert energy from the sun, into energy used to power your home or business
Step 1: Collecting energy
Solar panels contain Photovoltaic (PV) cells that are able to absorb energy from the sun known as photons. These cells are made of silicon and are constructed with a positive and negative layer, which together create an electric field like in a battery. When photons hit a solar cell, they set the electrons in motion, starting a flow of electric current. The electricity that is created in this process is called direct current (DC) electricity and it is not able to power your home or business. With DC electricity, the electrons flow in one direction around a circuit and in order to convert DC electricity to usable energy, we need an inverter.
Step 2: How the inverter creates usable energy
An inverter is set up and is attached to the solar panels via wires. As the DC electricity travels through the wires and into the inverter, it turns into alternating current (AC) electricity. With AC electricity the electrons periodically reverse directions. This type of electricity is what powers your home or business. The inverter also provides system stats including voltage and energy production.
Step 3: Electricity flows into the utility meter
Once the solar system is set up, it will be connected to your electricity meter which is how your energy provider measures and supplies power to your building. The meter will also be able to measure the amount of electricity your solar panel produces. Even if it’s raining or cloudy out you’ll still benefit from your panels because of a system called “net metering.”
What is net metering?
Net metering is used when the solar panels are creating more energy than you’re using. The excess energy is fed back into the grid and you get credit for the amount of excess energy produced. This credit is what you use at night or on a rainy day to draw the excess energy from the grid. Most homeowners and businesses in the U.S. have access to net metering and it works as a major incentive towards going solar.
Step 4: Enjoy the electricity from your new solar panels!
After electricity flows through the net meter, it will be used to power the various appliances in your building. If you’re using more electricity than your system is creating, don’t worry! You’ll still be connected to the power grid and can draw energy from there whenever you need.
Graphic from https://news.energysage.com/solar-panels-work/
Switch to solar and get a free consultation by contacting us or calling 516.855.7283 today!
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