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In order for solar energy to be effective, it
must be transformed from its raw material, sunlight, into
energy that can be used for practical purposes. There are
three main ways that this is done. The three ways include:
photovoltaics, solar power towers, and by burning biomass. The following explanation is an
attempt to explore some of the basics behind the most
popular ways that sunlight is converted into energy that can
be used practically.
Solar System Basics
- Solar Panels convert sunlight instantly
into DC electric power.
- Inverter converts DC power to standard AC
power.
- Electrical panel distributes solar
electricity and utility power for use.
- Utility Meter actually spins backward
when solar power generated exceeds the house meter needs,
sending power back to the utility for full credit at the
retail rate they charge you.
- Utility power is provided at night and
during the day when power needs exceed the solar
production.
Grid-Tie PV Systems
- A grid-tie system consists of solar
cells, an inverter, and your meter that are connected to
the electric utility.
- Solar cells take the Sun's energy and
turn it into DC electricity, the inverter then converts it
to utility grade AC power for use in your home.
- All excess electricity flows back into
the electric grid. When this happens, your meter actually
spins backward, building a credit at the same rate as you
are billed.
- Your system can be sized to build enough
credit so that you no longer have electric charges.
- Grid-Tie systems use the electric utility
for 'storage', there are no batteries to contend with.
- A grid-tie system is a tremendous way to
reduce your dependence on utility power, lower your
electric bills, increase green energy production and
improve the environment.
Off-Grid/Stand Alone Systems
- An Off-Grid system is similar to a
Grid-Tie but instead of sending excess power to the
utility you charge deep-cycle lead-acid and sealed
batteries.
- It's a great application if you don't
have access to the utility grid or if you need an
uninterrupted supply of power.
Grid-Tie/Battery Back Up
- Features the best of both types of
systems in order to maintain power in the event of a power
outage
- Your power will never be interrupted
- Your lights will never go out
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