How solar power works

While the technology associated with solar power can seem quite complex, converting sunlight into electricity is quite a simple process.

1. The sun.
   Sunlight contains energy.
2. Solar panels.
   Solar panels have photovoltaic cells. When sunlight hits the panels on the roof, these cells then convert the sun’s energy into DC power.
3. The inverter.
   The inverter changes the power from DC electricity to AC electricity, AC electricity is the most common type of electricity used for households.
4. The electricity meter.
   A bi-directional electricity meter or a net meter that can measure both the power you use and the power you send back to the grid. The excess power you don’t use is sent back to the grid.
5. Electricity grid.
   Your home is connected to the supply authority electricity grid. Additional energy you generate is fed back into the grid, and stored for your use when needed.