This page shows the basics of a grid connect solar power system
However, before we do that it is important that we distinguish between two different types of solar energy being solar pv (or photovoltaic solar) and solar thermal.
Solar PV
Solar PV is where the irradiation in sunlight is used to stimulate the flow of electrons in a semiconductor to create a flow of electricity. So in this instance it is the irradiation (sunlight) that is useful, not the heat.
Solar Thermal
Solar thermal is mainly used to heat hot water and this is by far its most common application. In the case of solar thermal the heat produced by the sun is what is used.
Components of a grid connect solar power system
Solar cells in the solar panels mounted on your roof convert sunlight directly into DC power. The cells contain semiconductors and the irradiation in sunlight stimulates the movement of electrons accross these semiconductors.
A component called a solar inverter converts this DC power into AC power that can be used by your house or business. The system is interconnected with your utility or grid electricity supply. This is why it is called a grid connect system. During the day, if your solar system produces more electricity than you are using, your utility may allow net metering, in which case you get a credit for the amount of kwh (kilowatt hours) of power that you feed back into the grid. You can find out more about the net metering offered by your power company in by searching our incentives and rebates for home solar power page for your state.
Your electricity company continues to provide power as usual at night and during the day when your electricity demand exceeds that produced by your solar power system.
A solar inverter is a device that transforms DC battery or solar panel voltage into mains type AC power; suitable for use by regular appliances. A solar inverter is an integral part of a system, but attention to this aspect is often overlooked. You can have the best solar panels available, but if your solar inverter is of poor quality, overall system performance can be greatly impacted.
