Solar Technology
When most people look at an installed solar power system all they see are the solar panels (or modules) but there are many other components that are required that enable the panels to create clean, renewable electricity for your home.
1. Solar Panels
Panels are made from silicon and convert energy from the sun into electricity. They are mounted on the roof of your house in an array. The number of panels will depend on the electricity generating capacity required.
2. Inverter
The inverter box is usually installed at ground level either in your garage or on the side of your house. The inverter converts the electricity generated by the solar panels from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) so that it can be used in the home.
3. Net Meter
After the solar system is installed the utility replaces your current meter with a net meter. This meter can spin forwards and backwards and will record the amount of energy that you generate and put onto the grid and the energy that you pull from the grid at night when the panels are not generating electricity.
4. Racks and Mounts
Solar panels are designed to be exposed to the elements and have an expected lifetime of 25 to 30 years and therefore it is also vitally important that the panels and mounted correctly. There are several ways of mounting panels to your roof which take into account the roofing material, the condition and pitch of the roof. A professional solar installer will know all the options that are available for your roof type and can provide you with a free estimate within no time at all.
