Home solar is easier than you would imagine. We’ll handle everything from home solar installation to maintenance and more if you say “Yes!” to going solar.
But first, you might be curious about how solar electricity operates. When considering how to go solar, it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of how solar energy works. This is because, although Shelter Roofing & Solar handles everything we want you to feel at ease throughout the entire process.
How does solar power in homes operate?
1. Solar Cells
Photovoltaic cells, which are used in solar panels, convert sunlight into direct current energy (DC electricity). Your solar panels are converting solar radiation into DC electricity as long as the sun is shining on your roof, rain or shine. But you’ll need an inverter to get the type of electricity necessary to switch on the lights in your living room.
2. Inverter
The inverter is a component that converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by your solar panels into alternating current electricity (AC electricity). It is often mounted on the garage wall or a part of your home’s exterior.
3. Solar Run Meter
Your Sunrun meter measures the output of your system and wirelessly transmits the data to Sunrun. Since it monitors your energy production round-the-clock, it will instantly notify Sunrun if it notices any issues or abnormalities.
4. Electric service panel main
Your inverter converts solar energy into electrical current, which travels to the electrical grid and ultimately into your house to power your lights and appliances. Additionally, you can earn solar credits if you produce more solar energy than you consume and feed it into the utility system.
5. Gross Meter
In relation to solar credits, the net meter counts both the electricity you take from the grid and the surplus solar energy you feed back into it. Therefore, the utility provider gives you credit when you use less electricity than you produce. Sounds really good, doesn’t it?
