While The Technology Behind Solar Energy may seem complex, when broken down, how solar power works is easy to understand – particularly in a grid connect scenario as it only requires a few components installed in your home or business. Discover below how solar power works.
The sun shines on the solar panels generating DC electricity.
The DC electricity is fed into a solar inverter that converts it to 240V 50Hz AC electricity.
The "240V" AC electricity is used to power appliances in your home.
Surplus electricity is fed back into the main grid.
Whenever the sun shines (and even in overcast weather), the solar cells generate electricity. The grid connects inverter converts the DC electricity produced by the solar panels into "240V" AC electricity, which can be used by the property/household.
If a grid connects system is producing more power than is being consumed, the surplus is fed into the mains power grid.
Some electricity companies will meter the electricity fed into the grid by your system and provide a credit on your bill. When the solar cells are not producing power, for example at night, your power is supplied by the mains power grid as usual. The energy retailer charges the usual rate for the power used.
As all of the components in a grid connect system have no moving parts, you can expect a long and hassle-free life from your solar power system! Generous government solar rebatesand incentives mean you can also save thousands on a grid connect system for a limited time!
Most customers choose a roof-mounted solar power system. For most of Australia, the modules should be installed facing north in order to take full advantage of the sun. However, a west-facing installation may also be desirable. Our accredited grid connect installers will aim to install the modules at an angle which ensures that the glass face of the modules is positioned at 90 degrees to the sun for most of the day.
As everyone’s needs are different and the generation potential of solar power differs from place to place, a quick way to get an answer to both these questions is to use our free solar quote system to determine the cost and estimated benefit of installation. You can also learn more about solar power system sizing here.
If you’d prefer to speak directly to an expert to find out more about how solar power works, contact our team of friendly consultants for free, no-obligation advice.
