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HOW SOLAR WORKS

How solar works
A close up of a solar panel

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SOLAR PANELS

The solar panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity during the day.

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INVERTER

This device converts the DC electricity generated by the solar panels into the alternating current (AC) electricity.​

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An electric panel on a home

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ELECTRICAL PANEL

The AC electricity is sent from the inverter to your electrical panel (aka "breaker box") to power your lights and appliances.

UTILITY METER

The utility meter measures your energy use. It actually goes backwards when your system generates more power than you immediately need. This excess solar energy offsets the energy you use at night.​

Solar power rolling back a utility meter

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Solar power being sent back to the grid

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THE GRID

Your home is still connected to the grid. You’ll need that power from the utility company at night, but don’t worry. The cost is offset by any excess solar energy you put into the grid during the day.

An example of how solar can provide electricity in any weather
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