How a solar power system works

To make solar power, you need clear, direct sunlight. Even if it’s very hot, clouds or shade will reduce the amount of power. (It’s the light from the sun – not the heat – that creates the power.)

When the sun shines onto a solar panel, some of the light is absorbed by the material in the panel, which is usually silicon. The energy this creates knocks unstable electrons off the silicon’s atoms.

By placing metal contacts at the top and bottom of the panel, we can make these free electrons flow in a controlled manner.

This flow of electrons is a direct current (DC), which is one form of electricity. Unfortunately, the electrical appliances you plug into the wall work on another form of electricity: alternating current (AC).

So, the direct current needs to go through an inverter so you can use it to power electrical appliances in your home or business.