How Solar Power Works

Summary

This video explains how solar power works by converting the sun's energy into electricity. Solar panels capture sunlight, and the photons they absorb move electrons, generating direct current (DC) electricity. The electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) power by an inverter, making it suitable for household use. Any excess power generated is sent back to the utility grid for a credit through net metering. Solar panels can provide reliable energy for over 20 years, and incentives like tax credits and no-money-down programs make solar power more affordable than ever.

Takeaways

• 😀 Solar power works by converting the sun's rays into electricity using solar modules.
• 😀 The sun's photons hit solar modules, causing electrons to move and generate an electrical current.
• 😀 The electricity generated is in direct current (DC) form and is sent to an inverter.
• 😀 The inverter changes the electricity from DC to alternating current (AC) for household use.
• 😀 Once converted to AC, the electricity is sent to the building's main electrical panel.
• 😀 If the site requires more electricity than the solar power provides, it will draw power from the utility grid.
• 😀 Any excess solar power produced is sent back to the grid for a credit, known as net metering.
• 😀 Solar panels can serve as a reliable energy source for over 20 years.
• 😀 There is a federal tax credit available for solar installation, as well as state-level incentives.
• 😀 No money down solar programs are available to help make solar power more affordable.
• 😀 Contacting Green Power Energy can provide a custom solar quote for your home.

Q & A

How does solar power work?

Solar power works by capturing the energy from the sun's rays, which contain photons. When these photons hit the solar panel, they cause electrons inside the panel to move, generating an electrical current.

What is the role of the inverter in a solar power system?

The inverter's role is to convert the electricity produced by the solar panels from direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity used in most homes.

What happens to the electricity once it is converted to AC?

Once the electricity is converted to alternating current (AC), it is fed directly into the building's main electrical panel, where it can be used to power the site.

What happens if a solar power system produces more electricity than the site needs?

If the solar system generates more electricity than the site requires, the excess energy is sent back into the utility grid, and the homeowner receives a credit for the overproduction in a process known as net metering.

What is net metering?

Net metering is the process where excess energy produced by solar panels is sent back to the grid, and the homeowner receives a credit for the amount of energy returned.

How long do solar panels last?

Modern solar panels can last for over 20 years, providing long-term, reliable energy production.

Are there any incentives available for installing solar panels?

Yes, there are federal tax credits available, as well as state-level incentives to make solar technology more affordable.

Are there any financing options for solar panel installation?

Yes, there are no-money-down solar programs available, making it easier for homeowners to adopt solar energy without upfront costs.

What is the main electrical panel in a building?

The main electrical panel in a building is where the electricity is distributed to various circuits throughout the home, and in a solar power system, this is where the AC electricity from the inverter is fed.

Why is solar power becoming more affordable?

Solar power is becoming more affordable due to available federal and state incentives, as well as financing options like no-money-down solar programs, making the technology accessible to more homeowners.