Solar Technology
Solar system components work together to power your business with clean energy from the sun. Silicon wafers capture photons from sunlight, turn them into DC power which is then transformed into 120 volt AC power and connected to your existing electrical system -- as well as the local electrical grid. When the sun shines, you can generate more power than you consume (your meter will really spin backwards). At night you'll draw on utility company power, essentially using the electrical grid as a giant storage battery.
- Solar Panels - Solar panels are installed on your roof or adjacent structure. These panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into DC power.
- Inverter - The DC power from the solar panels is sent to an inverter, where it is converted into AC power, or standard electrical current used to power your facility.
- Electrical Panel - AC power travels from the inverter to the electrical cabinet, often called a breaker box. This power is then available to service all of your electrical needs.
- Utility Meter - The utility meter continually measures your electrical supply; when your solar system produces more power than you need, the meter literally spins backwards, accumulating credits with the utility company that will offset your next bill.
- Utility Grid - Your business remains connected to the utility grid to supply you with electricity when you need more power than your system has produced, such as at night.