Solar Electricity

These are the main components that will make up your Solar/PV system.  Solar power is becoming more and more cost effective as utility rates continue to increase (17% in 2009) and average about 6% per year.

SOLAR PANELS

A solar panel or photovoltaic (PV) panel is a device that actually converts the power of the sun into electricity by the photovoltaic effect. Assemblies of solar cells are used to make solar panels, solar modules, or photovoltaic arrays. The energy generated this way is an example of solar energy (also called solar power).  A group of solar panels will make up your solar/PV array and are typically the most expensive part of your system. The panels are typically attached to a rack on your roof to get the maximum exposure to the sun and help cool the house at the same time. The sizes and wattage of panels vary but today most panels used are 60” x 36” in size and are 200 watts or more. To learn more about solar panels and the photovoltaic affect, click here.

INVERTER

The inverter is the 2nd largest part of your home electric system. It is an electrical device that converts direct current [DC] to alternating current [AC]. Solar panels produce a direct current. Unfortunately, most of the electrical devices we commonly use expect a standard AC power supply. An inverter takes the DC from the solar panels and creates a useable form of AC which is connected to the grid. The inverter is usually attached to the house itself, close to the main electrical box/meter to keep the installation as clean as possible.  Inverters vary in size but typically are about 18” x 24” in size.  Click here to see various types of DC/AC inverters.

 

ELECTRIC METER

After the sun hits your solar panels and the inverter is able to convert the DC current to AC current, your electric meter now gets involved.  Your electric meter will not only monitor how much electricity you are using but it will NOW monitor how much electricity your solar/PV system is producing.  Your meter will actually go backwards if you are producing more electricity than you are using.  You will get credit for this excess electricity and will be able to use it at night and on days where you use more than your system produces.

UTILITY PROVIDER

The utility provider is critical since you will now be feeding electricity into the electrical grid.  The utility through the Net Metering procedures will track your electricity generation and usage when you sign an Inter-connection Agreement. This agreement is to make sure you get credit for the electricity you produce.  The SoCal Solar Store will handle all the required paperwork and contracts.