How Solar Works - Vulcan Solar Power, LLC

HOW SOLAR POWER WORKS

Solar Panels: The solar panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity.
Inverter: The inverter converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is then sent to the electrical panel.
Electrical Panel: The electrical panel (or “breaker box”) receives the AC electricity from the inverter and then distributes the electricity to power your home or business.
Utility Meter: The utility meter measures the energy use of your home or business. Any excess power produced by your solar system is transmitted to the utility grid, which the power company credits against your bill at a rate that varies by state and local utility.
Utility Grid: The utility grid is the power company’s infrastructure used to send electricity to your home or business – i.e., the power lines. With most solar systems, the home or business stays connected to the utility grid.
Solar Power Monitoring System: The monitoring system, which can be accessed from your computer or smartphone, tracks your energy production and consumption in real-time and ensures that your system is running properly.

Grid-Tied Solar System: Most systems are grid-tied, meaning that the solar panels provide power during the day and the power company provides power at night.
Off-Grid Solar System: With an off-grid system, the home or business is fully disconnected from the grid. The solar panels provide power during the day while also charging your battery for use at night.
Hybrid Solar System: With a hybrid system, the solar panels provide power during the day while also charging your battery for use at night. At the same time, the home or business remains connected to the grid, which serves as a backup power source.