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Solar FAQ: How Does Solar Energy Work?

All of your friends have been talking to you about converting to solar panels. While you vaguely know what they are and that they can save you money on your power bill, you don’t know how.

How does solar energy work? Before you dish out all the money it would take to put them on your roof you would like to know that. Luckily for you, we have the answers to all your burning questions.

Here is a basic guide on how solar panels collect light and transform it into energy that you can use to power your home appliances.

1. Solar Panels Collect Light

All the solar panels on a home have something called PV cells. These cells absorb the sun’s rays and then start producing direct current electricity.

The direct current electricity can’t power your home all by itself though. It needs the help of something called inverters.

2. Inverters Transform the Solar Power into Electricity

There are two different inverter setups depending on what panels you’re using. Some use one large inverter that power the entire system. Some setups use smaller inverters that rest behind each panel.

Either way, they will all work the same. They convert that direct current electricity into an alternating current that you can use to power your home.

3. Use the Electricity in Your Home

The electricity that is coming in from the panels goes through your net meter to run all the appliances in your home. This should be enough to power everything efficiently but if it’s not, don’t worry about it. You’re still connected to your regular power company through the grid.

You’ll be able to use this resource to pull a little bit of extra power from your utility which will cover it.

4. Any Leftover Energy Goes Back to the Grid

Now you may be asking but “how can I power my appliances at night or during cloudy days when the sun isn’t up.” The answer to that is that grid that we were talking about. Not only can you draw a bit of extra electricity from it but you can also put some back.

If you then you’ll be able to pull from it and power your home during these trying times.

Net Meter

Now the question is how do you know that you’re using excess solar power so you can send it back. The answer is your net meter. We mentioned it a little before but it’s a device installed in your home that measures electricity going back and forward to the grid.

It also allows the power company to give you credits for any extra energy that you’re using.

How Does Solar Energy Work? Your Complete Guide

Now that we’ve answered the question, how does solar energy work, are you more on board with having them installed? It’s a pretty simple process and it can save you money and energy in the long run. It’s a win-win all around.

Are you ready to get started with your solar panel installation? Contact us for a free consultation today.


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