So you're thinking of getting panels installed on your roof but how exactly are they going to power your home? It’s called photovoltaic technology, more commonly known as PV. A single PV device is known as a cell, which is typically small and produces about 1 to 2 watts of energy. The solar panels on your roof are made up of multiple cells and other materials, like glass and plastic, to help those cells withstand the weather. Some of our favorite panels - the Hanwa Q panels - contain over 100 cells per panel!
When multiple panels (also known as modules) are connected together, they form an array. Those arrays are connected to the electrical grid to create part of a complete PV system. Because these systems can be built in any size, PV systems are able to meet almost any power need. Other parts of a complete PV system include mounting structures and inverters, which turn DC (direct-current) energy into AC (alternating-current) energy.
PV cells are able to produce the energy sent through the system by capturing photons released by the sun. The silicon material at the cell’s core separates electrons from the atoms. Those electrons then move around the cell creating DC energy. The cells take that DC energy and send it to the inverter, which turns that energy into AC energy.
After the energy is converted into an alternating current (AC), it’s sent to the appliances in your home. If you’re producing more power than you’re using, the excess energy will either be sent to the grid or batteries tied into your system. Power sent to the grid will give you credit towards power you use while your panels aren’t producing. It’s as simple as that!
There’s much more you can learn about the science behind solar. What’s the best way to learn? Seeing it first hand! Install a system on your home and see the magic in real-time. Start the process by talking to one of our experts today.
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