How Solar Electric Systems Work and Power Our Homes

In the wake of growing environmental concerns, the need for renewable sources of energy has seen a dramatic increase. One of the most popular alternatives to fossil fuel is solar power, but how to solar electric systems power our home?

Elements Involved are:

1.     Solar Panels - Solar panel soaks in sunlight and converts it into usable energy.

2.     Photo Voltaic Cells –Photovoltaic cells are made of semiconductor material, commonly silicon.

The Process:

1.     When the sun’s rays hit the cells, the absorbed photons get transferred to the silicon.

2.     The resulting energy from the absorbed light knocks loose electrons.

3.     The structure of the photovoltaic cells forces the electrons to flow in  a specific direction, creating an electric current

4.     Metal contacts placed above and below the cell draw the current away for use by the home

Once the electric current is available it gets directed to Micro inverter which converts Direct Current (DC)from the solar array into Alternating Current (AC), the type of electricity used in our homes.

The Main fuse box divides the current and directs it to:

1.     The electric meter that connects our home system to the electrical grid

2.     The AC appliances that plug into the electrical sockets throughout the home

If possible have your solar power system facing south to get the most sunlight throughout the day

While direct sunlight is best, solar electric systems produce electricity even on cloudy days. If your solar panels produce more electricity than your home uses, the meter spins backward sending electricity back to the grid. This means your energy credits. When there isn’t enough sunlight your home draws power from the grid instead of the solar cells essentially withdrawing the credits that you deposited earlier.