How does solar power work?

Many individuals do not understand the complexity of solar systems, but simply see them as a means of obtaining electricity; however, solar power works by means of a series of complex steps before producing the electricity that home and business owners use. Read all about how solar power works below:

Step 1

The first step in the process of solar power is the collection of energy from the sun. The silicon photovoltaic cells used in solar panels capture the energy from the sun’s UV rays. The panels, then create a form of electricity known as direct current (DC). However, this current is not suitable for use in your home or business.

Step 2

The next step is to convert the DC electricity to alternating current (AC) that is suitable to use. The solar panels send the DC to an inverter that can then convert this electricity into AC. Once this has been done, the solar power system progresses to the next step.

Step 3

Once the electricity is converted into AC electricity, the switchboard can then be used to feed this electricity to the electric appliances within your home. This switchboard also plays another role in your solar power system by ensuring that all solar power is used before accessing any grid power.

Step 4

The final step in the process is when the additional electricity from a solar power system is sent to the grid. A net-metering system can be used to determine the amount of energy used to power your home as well as the amount of excess electricity that is sent to the grid.