Solar Electric Basics
Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight directly into electricity.
The system consists of:
* Solar PV Panels -- Generate DC electricity
* Inverter -- Converts the DC to standard AC electricity that is
compatible with the electrical grid and capable of powering electrical
devices.
* Utility Meter -- Tracks the solar electricity that your system
produces and feeds to the utility grid, thereby keeping track of your
credit from the utility.
A grid-tied solar electric system can generate power on-site to
supply a home or business that is connected to the utility grid and
offset the usage from the utility company. Grid-tied systems are
the most common types of solar systems.
An off-grid solar system with a battery back-up can supply power to a
remote home or area that would otherwise not have access to electricity.
(More information about solar off-grid)
