Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity from sunlight using photovoltaic cells. This DC electricity needs to be converted into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is what most household appliances and the power grid use.
- Solar Panels: Photovoltaic cells in the solar panels generate DC electricity when exposed to sunlight. Each solar panel contains multiple photovoltaic cells connected in series or parallel to achieve the desired voltage and current output.
- Solar Inverter: The DC electricity produced by the solar panels is sent to a solar inverter. The solar inverter is a critical component that converts the DC electricity from the solar panels into AC electricity. It also synchronizes the output with the utility grid’s frequency and voltage.
- Grid Connection: In grid-tied solar systems, the AC electricity produced by the solar inverter is connected to the household’s main electrical panel. This allows the solar-generated electricity to supplement the household’s electricity needs. If the solar panels produce more electricity than the household consumes, the excess electricity can be exported back to the grid.
- Household Consumption: When solar panels produce electricity during the day, the household’s electrical loads are powered by a combination of solar-generated electricity and grid electricity. If the solar panels produce less electricity than the household’s demand, the deficit is supplied by the grid. Conversely, if the solar panels produce more electricity than the household’s demand, the excess is either exported to the grid or stored in batteries, depending on the system configuration.
- Net Metering (Optional): In many regions, net metering programs allow homeowners with grid-tied solar systems to receive credits for the excess electricity they export to the grid. These credits can offset the electricity they consume from the grid when solar production is low, such as at night or during cloudy weather.
Overall, the process involves converting DC electricity generated by solar panels into AC electricity compatible with household appliances and the grid, allowing homeowners to utilize clean, renewable energy to power their homes.
