Tuesday, May 10, 2011

How Solar Panels Work

How solar panels convert sunlight into energy in a fairly simple process to understand.

The procedure begins when the sun shines on the array of solar panels. The solar panels create a DC current that flows to an inverter. The inverter changes the DC current to AC current, which is the energy that appliances use in the home. The AC current flows to the home electrical panel for everyday electrical requirements.

Excess power generated by the solar panels flows out through the utility meter and onto the utility grid where net metering credits are earned to offset future bills. Net metering credits are used on cloudy days, nighttime, and winter months when the sun is not shining as much.

But when the sun is out, expect your solar panels to be producing an unlimited and clean source of free energy.

Read more about solar panels and how they can help you save money while reducing your carbon footprint.