skip to Main Content

How solar power works

Solar power is generated by light from the sun hitting specially made solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, which converts the light into electricity. The electricity is used to power your home during daylight hours and any excess is transferred to the grid via a solar inverter.

Generally the panels are installed on rooftops and positioned in a northerly direction to maximise the amount of sunlight that hits them throughout the day. The amount of electricity that the panels can generate varies throughout the day. In the morning you may be consuming more energy than your can generate, and so some of the energy you use would come from the grid.

During the afternoon when your solar system is working at full capacity you may generate more electricity than you are using. This excess is fed back to the grid and transferred into energy credits that you can use when your system is producing less again, such as in the evenings.

Solar panels convert sunlight to direct current (DC)

Inverter converts DC to alternating current (AC)

Your home uses electricity from the solar system

System connects to the grid, ensuring you have constant electric service

Solar systems with battery storage

As prices for battery storage continue to drop, solar PV systems with battery backup are becoming increasingly popular. The battery enables you to store excess energy generated during the day and use it in the evening, further reducing your reliance on the grid.

Benefits from day one

Reduce your electricity bill

Reduce or eliminate your electricity bill and protect against raising energy prices.

Clean renewable energy source

Year after year your solar system will continue to deliver free energy from the sun.

Increase the value of your home

Many potential buyers and renters are willing to pay more for houses with solar panels installed.

Reduce carbon emissions

By generating your own electricity you will reduce your reliance on the coal-powered electricity grid.

Significant return on investment

Start saving from day one. Many systems pay for themselves within a few years.

Government incentives

Small-scale Technology Certificates (STC’s) provides big savings towards solar installs.