Solar panels, batteries, and inverters work together to power your home. Learn about the role each component plays below.
Solar panels
Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect.
Here’s how that works:
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Photovoltaic cells: Solar panels are made up of many small units called photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are usually made from silicon, a semiconductor material.
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Sunlight absorption: When sunlight hits the PV cells, it knocks electrons loose from their atoms. This creates a flow of electricity.
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Electric field: Each PV cell has an electric field that forces the freed electrons to move in a specific direction, creating a current.
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Wiring: The current generated by the PV cells is collected by wiring and directed to an inverter, which converts it into usable alternating current (AC) electricity for your home.
The power output of a solar panel is measured in watts (W), indicating the amount of electricity the panel can produce under standard test conditions (STC). For example, a 300-watt solar panel can produce 300 watts of power per hour under ideal conditions. Higher wattage panels generate more electricity in the same amount of space, making them more efficient.
Solar panels generate less power on cloudy days and none at night. You may choose to integrate a battery into your system, so you can store excess energy for use during these times.
Inverters
Solar inverters are essential components of your solar power system. They convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by your solar panels into AC electricity, which your home appliances use.
Some advanced inverters double as battery inverters, meaning they can manage both your solar panels and a battery storage system. These hybrid inverters allow you to store excess energy generated during the day in a battery, which you can then use when the sun isn't shining.
Batteries
Batteries store excess electricity generated by your solar panels during the day, so you can use this energy when your panels aren't producing power, such as at night or on cloudy days.
Modern solar batteries are typically lithium-ion, known for their high energy density, long lifespan, and efficiency. They come in various capacities, allowing you to choose a battery system that best fits your energy needs. Batteries can also provide a backup power source during outages, ensuring your home remains powered when the grid goes down.