How It Works

• Sunlight Absorption.

  Photovoltaic solar systems produce electricity by using solar cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. When photons in light hit the solar panel, they get absorbed by the panel's semi-conducting materials, causing negatively-charged electrons to be knocked loose from their atoms.

• Directional Flow.

  Due to the special chemical composition of solar cells, the knocked-off electrons are only allowed to move in a single direction, creating direct current (DC) electricity. The chemical bonds of the panel, often using silicon bonded with boron or phosphorus, are vital for this process to work effectively.

• Inverter Conversion.

  To make the electricity usable in homes, an inverter comes into play. The inverter converts the DC power produced by the solar panels into alternating current (AC), which is the standard form of electricity used in households.

• Grid-Tied PV Systems.

  The most popular grid-tied system is designed to operate with your utility company and any unused power is then fed back to the electric company to be used at a later time.

• Standalone PV Systems.

  Standalone systems are designed to stand independent of the power grid and use batteries to store energy. Standalone systems are usually used in remote locations away from the energy grid.