How Solar Works

Diagram of a residential solar power system showing solar panels on the roof connected to a home with various appliances, an inverter, meter, electric box, and utility grid. Solar panels convert sunlight to direct current (DC), which is converted to alternating current (AC) for home use.

  • Solar panels collect sunlight through photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are made of semiconductor materials, usually silicon. When sunlight hits these cells, it excites electrons in the semiconductor material, creating an electric current. This process, known as the photovoltaic effect, converts sunlight directly into electricity. The electricity generated by the PV cells is in the form of direct current (DC), which is then converted to alternating current (AC) by an inverter for use in homes and businesses.

  • Once solar panels collect sunlight and generate electricity, the following steps convert it into usable energy in a home:

    1. Generation of DC Electricity: Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity when sunlight excites electrons in the photovoltaic cells.

    2. Inverter Conversion: The DC electricity flows to an inverter, which converts it to alternating current (AC) electricity. AC is the standard form of electricity used in homes.

    3. Electrical Panel Distribution: The AC electricity is then sent to the home's electrical panel (breaker box), where it is distributed to power various appliances and devices throughout the home.

    4. Excess Energy Handling: If the solar system produces more electricity than the home needs, the excess energy can either be stored in a battery system for later use or fed back into the grid through a process called net metering, where it can be credited to the homeowner's utility account.

    This system ensures that solar energy is effectively harnessed and utilized within the home.

  • Once solar power is converted from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) by the inverter, it is distributed through the home in the following way:

    1. Electrical Panel (Breaker Box): The AC electricity flows from the inverter to the home's electrical panel, also known as the breaker box.

    2. Circuit Breakers: The electrical panel contains circuit breakers that control and protect different circuits in the home. Each breaker is connected to a specific area or set of appliances.

    3. Distribution to Outlets and Appliances: The AC electricity is distributed from the electrical panel through the home's wiring to various outlets, switches, and appliances. This ensures that all electrical devices in the home receive the power they need to operate.

    4. Continuous Monitoring and Adjustment: The home's electrical system continuously monitors the flow of electricity, adjusting distribution as needed to maintain a stable and efficient power supply throughout the home.on text goes here

  • Excess energy generated by a home's solar power system is returned to the grid through a process called net metering, which involves the following steps:

    1. Metering System: A bi-directional meter is installed to track both the electricity consumed from the grid and the excess electricity sent back to the grid. This meter records the flow of energy in both directions.

    2. Excess Energy Generation: When the solar panels generate more electricity than the home consumes, the surplus electricity is sent back through the home's electrical panel to the grid.

    3. Grid Integration: The excess electricity flows from the home's electrical panel through the utility meter and into the local power grid. This energy is then distributed by the utility company to other homes and businesses in the area.

    4. Net Metering Credits: The bi-directional meter keeps track of the excess energy sent to the grid, and the homeowner receives credits from the utility company for this contribution. These credits can offset future electricity bills, effectively compensating the homeowner for the surplus energy their solar system produced.

    5. Continuous Exchange: This process allows for a continuous exchange of energy between the home and the grid, ensuring efficient use of solar power and providing a financial benefit to the homeowner.

  • Every solar system Anchor Energy installs includes access to a customer portal, enabling you to monitor your system's real-time production and performance. Additionally, your utility company will continue to send you monthly utility bill statements, which will now feature a summary of any remaining credits accumulated from the previous month.

SEE IF SOLAR IS RIGHT FOR YOU

 FAQs

  • Solar energy is power harnessed from the sun's rays. Solar panels, composed of photovoltaic cells, convert sunlight into electricity. This electricity can then be used to power homes and businesses or stored in batteries for later use.

  • The cost of installing solar panels varies based on factors such as system size, location, and installation complexity. On average, residential solar panel installations in the U.S. can range from $15,000 to $25,000 before any incentives or rebates.

  • Solar panels are designed to last for 25-30 years. Most manufacturers offer warranties of 20-25 years, but panels can continue to generate electricity beyond their warranty period, albeit at reduced efficiency.

  • Savings depend on several factors, including the size of the solar system, local electricity rates, and available sunlight. On average, homeowners can save between $10,000 and $30,000 over the lifespan of their solar system.

  • If your solar panels produce more electricity than you use, the excess energy can be fed back into the grid in a process called net metering. Many utility companies offer credits for this excess power, which can offset your future electricity bills. Alternatively, if you have a battery storage system, the extra energy can be stored for later use.

  • Yes, solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy or rainy days, though their efficiency is reduced. They produce the most energy on clear, sunny days but continue to work in various weather conditions.

  • Solar panels require minimal maintenance. It is generally recommended to have them inspected and cleaned once or twice a year to ensure optimal performance. Regular maintenance may include cleaning debris, leaves, and dust off the panels.

  • Many regions offer incentives and rebates for solar installations, such as federal tax credits, state rebates, and local incentives. In the U.S., the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct a percentage of the installation cost from their federal taxes.

  • Yes, most local governments require building permits for solar panel installations. Your solar installer typically handles the permitting process and ensures that the installation complies with local building codes and regulations.

  • Going off-grid is possible with solar panels, but it requires a battery storage system to store excess energy for use when the sun isn't shining. Off-grid systems are more complex and expensive than grid-tied systems but provide complete energy independence.