WHAT’S IN A SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM?

The main solar components are:

• Solar panels
• Inverters
• Racking (mounting)
• Batteries (optional)

But how do these solar system components convert the sun’s energy into usable electricity? They each serve a purpose. While batteries are optional, you can still reap the benefits of the sun during peak sunlight hours.

SOLAR PANELS

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. During this process, solar panels collect electrons from the sun’s light in the form of direct current (DC) electricity, which then pass through the inverter to convert into usable AC electricity.

MONOCRYSTALLINE VS. POLYCRYSTALLINE

MONOCRYSTALLINE VS. POLYCRYSTALLINE

Monocrystalline (mono) solar panels are made from cells cut from one piece of silicon. Mono panels are more efficient, so they produce more power in less space. Mono cells now represent about 75% of the panels on the market.

Polycrystalline (poly) panels are made by melting and combining small pieces of silicon.

INVERTERS

Inverters are the brains of your solar system. Their main responsibility is to convert DC power (from your panels) into AC power which is the power used to electrify your home and its components.

RACKING (MOUNTING SYSTEM)

Racking is the foundational structure that secures your solar panels in place.

One of Two Options

• Roof mount racking
• Ground mount racking

BATTERIES (OPTIONAL)

There are a couple types of batteries:

• Lead-acid batteries
• Lithium batteries