|
How Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Work
- Solar PV systems use a clean, renewable source of energy, the sun, and convert it directly to electricity.
- Electrons freed by the interaction of sunlight with semiconductor materials in the PV module (panel) form a direct current (DC) of electricity.
- This DC electricity travels to the inverter, and the inverter changes the DC electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity to power your electrical devices and to be compatible with the electric grid.
- Net Metering: when your PV system generates more power than you need, the surplus goes to the utility grid and your meter runs backward. You can use an equivalent amount of electricity later without additional cost to you.
- PV systems produce power intermittently because they work only when the sun is shining. If your property needs additional power, the grid provides electricity from the utility company. This is most prevalent at night or during the day when your demand for energy surpasses the amount of solar electricity you are producing. Net Metering helps to counter this power discrepancy (see above).
* Illustration courtesy of U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: "A Consumer's Guide"
Save Now!
|
