How do Solar Power Systems Work?

Solar Panels, aka solar modules, are usually installed on your roof. The panels contain photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert daylight into direct current (DC) power.

Inverter. The solar panels send DC power to an inverter, which coverts it into alternating current (AC) power – the standard electrical current employed in your house.

The Electric Panel. AC power travels to your electric panel from the inverter, regularly called a breaker box. This power is now ready to be used in your house.

Utility Meter. The utility meter, the monitoring device next to your breaker box, measures your electrical supply. When your solar system generates more power than required, the meter runs backwards, taking away units of measured electricity off your next electrical bill. It is not unusual for an electrical bill to show a minus $ amount.

Use Grid. With a traditional On-the-Grid solar electricity system, your house remains hooked up to the use grid, to have electricity when you want more power than your PV system produced.

Production Monitoring. Most solar systems provide a module to watch energy generation and to ensure your system is going well. If production levels fall below standard, the monitor alerts you helping cure the issue.

A formula is used to arrive at a Total Pressure number, which in its turn tells your installer the amount of support required. Installation is not possible in regions where the wind pressure exceeds 45 PSF. Solar systems are not recommended for coastal locations or other salt water locations. The minimum safe distance is 0.3 miles from a body of salt water. Avoid corrosion-prone areas.

Unless you are a contractor, or have satisfactory experience, you could have a professional install any solar power systems. The following is general installation info. Install solar modules toward the south, if possible. Installations facing east and west produce lower amounts of energy.

Solar Power Systems can be an overwhelming subject, that's the reason why Warren Byrne has created this easy to read book that anyone can understand.