Solar 101


The Sun

The sun provides an incredible amount of energy through nuclear fusion and radiates that energy in all directions.  Only a small portion of that energy reaches Earth.  Even though its small portion of total output, the energy that Earth receives each hour from the Sun is more than the entire planet uses in a year. 

PV Modules

Photovoltaic (PV) modules are special semiconductors that convert solar energy into electricity.  Sunlight is absorbed by the panels creating electric potential differences which are then directed to an external circuit creating direct current (DC) power.  Many small PV modules are connected together to generate a useful output of energy.  

Inverters

An inverter is special electrical device that converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC).  Alternative current is required to transport electricity over long distances and most common electrical devices are designed to run on it.

Metering

In a typical solar installation a meter is installed to monitor and track solar production.  This allows solar owner to track production and efficiency of their systems. 

The Grid

The final step in solar production is exporting it to the grid to be used by consumers.  The grid is a large, nationwide, network of wiring that transports electricity from where it is produced to where is it needed.

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