HOW SOLAR WORKS
Posted by YES on December 15, 2020 in Energy Savings Net Metering Solar Solar Monitoring Solar Panels
Good Morning Sunshine
Harness the power of the sun! Reduce or even eliminate your electric bill. Our energy consultants will work with you and size your system to maximize energy savings to help you achieve energy independence!
Photovoltaic cells are comprised of a semiconductor material such as silicon. In addition, boron and phosphorous are used to create conductivity within the cell and activate the movement of electrons. The electrons move across the cell when activated by the sun’s energy into the electrical circuit hooked up to the solar panel. Solar panels are either roof or ground mounted, ideally facing a southern or western orientation to maximize production.
The Main Components
Solar Panels: Outputs power in direct current (DC), while homes, businesses, and the grid are configured in alternating current (AC). Inverter: Converts the DC power to AC power, allowing full integration with the grid. Nothing changes with the way you use electricity. Simply continue using your appliances as you’ve been.
Benefits of Solar
Save Money
Reduce or eliminate your electric bill. With the 30% federal tax credit, your system pays for itself in as little as 5 years.
Reliable Power Source
With no moving parts, maintenance is easy and minimal. Monitor your solar production online.
Environment
A sustainable and renewable source of energy.
Save with Net Metering
When your solar system is producing more power than you are using, your meter literally spins backwards. The extra power goes to the grid, powering other buildings. Your utility “banks” this extra production for you to use later, such as during nightfall and cloudy days. This process is called “net metering”. Net metering allows you to reduce or eliminate your electricity bill. No battery storage required.
Daily Production
On a sunny day, solar production looks like a bell-shape curve. Over the course of the day, the power of the sun (irradiance), increases, peaks, then drops. Irradiance is stronger during summer months than the winter months. During the summer months, stronger irradiance, in tandem with with longer days, causes peak production and total solar production to be at its highest.
Common Solar Questions
