How it works

1. Solar Photovoltaic Panels

PV cells convert the sun’s energy into electricity. PV cells are made from silicon and are installed in areas that receive substantial unobstructed sunlight. PV cells are combined into modules which are then combined into panels. While there are two prevalent panel technologies (crystalline and thin film), crystalline is the most common type currently installed due to greater efficiency (and less space required) and a longer track record.

2. Combiner

The combiner connects various wires transmitting the electrical current generated by individual solar panels together into a single wire. The current then moves to the inverter.

3. Inverter

Solar PV panels convert the sun's energy into DC current. The inverter transforms this current to alternating current (AC). AC current is the form of electricity used by most components (outlets, appliances, and electronics) in a building.

4. Disconnect Switch

The Disconnect Switch, or AC safety, is the manual switch that can disconnect the structure's electrical system from the solar PV system.

5. Monitoring System

The Solar PV System is connected to an internet-based performance monitoring system. It is important to monitor a solar system in order to make sure that it is working at full capacity.

6. Transmission Line to the Grid

The Solar PV system is connected to the conventional grid.