You see the black solar panels on homes in your community or in large fields as you drive down a highway. You know what they are but how do they work? What happens with these now famous black panels that creates a reduction of your electric bill and harnesses solar energy? Here are some answers to these questions.
Once the solar panels are installed on your rooftop or displayed atop complex risers in a large open field, they are just the beginning. These panels are components of a sophisticated network that generates electricity for your home through the sun’s renewable energy.
SUN POWER
Inside each black panel is a complex system of photovoltaic technology. Each panel is made of silicone cells, glass, a metal frame, special film, and wires. The photovoltaic cells absorb sunlight that enters a semiconductor wafer formed by two silicone layers. One layer is positive, and one layer is negative.
ELECTRIC CURRENTS
As the sunlight enters into the photovoltaic cells, the electrons separate from the atoms. These freed electrons begin to move about by the electric field surrounding the semiconductor. This movement creates an electric current.
AC/DC
The electric current that was created in the step above is known as DC or direct current. This type of electricity can not power the items in your home. It needs to be converted to AC, or alternating current, which is done through an inverter. The solar power system installers incorporate an inverter into the system to generate AC electricity to provide power for your home’s use.
LIGHT IT UP
Now that the energy is useful in your home, the AC electricity routes through your electric panel and provides you with power. This electricity works in the same way as the power that comes from your electric company. At this time, you have two sources of power entering your home.
GIVE CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE
Oftentimes your solar power system is creating solar energy when no electricity is being used. This extra power is stored and transferred to the electric company’s power grid. Many electric companies will return a credit on your electric bill for that extra power that your system provided.
While this blog may have answered some of your questions, Sunrise Solar is here to help with any further questions you may have about solar power. We are specialists in saving you money with a solar system installation. Explore our website or call us to set up a consultation or get a quote. Let’s begin your solar project today!