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How Does Solar Energy Work?
The potential of solar power is incredible—PV panels of the size of our Lake Michigan can generate enough electricity for the whole of the US!
It is the fastest growing renewable energy source around the globe, projected to make up to 60% of the renewable power over the next five years.
With the reduced installation costs, tax benefits, and as a measure to combat climate change, it makes sense to switch to solar for U.S homebuyers, now more than ever.
But before making the transition, you might be curious to know how solar panels work. Let’s take a peek under the hood.
First Things First: How Do Solar Panels Make Electricity?
Solar panels are designed to absorb and filter the photons released by the sun. The panels are made of closely-linked photovoltaic cells consisting of two layers of semiconducting materials, such as silicon. Phosphorus is added into the top layer of silicon, which increases the number of electrons to create a negative charge, while the bottom layer is treated with boron, which subtracts electrons, giving it a positive charge.
This creates an electric field between the two silicon layers. When the photons from sunlight hit these photovoltaic cells, electrons are knocked free from the atomic structure. The electric field then pushes these newly separated electrons out of the silicon junction, creating energy.
The solar array (collection of multiple wired solar panels) generates direct current (DC). This electricity then moves through the inverter with the help of a conducive wire and gets converted to alternating current (AC). The AC goes to the breaker box to power your home or commercial building and any excess electricity goes back to your electricity grid.
What Are the Different Types of Solar Power Systems?
On-Grid Solar System
This is the most common type of solar panel because it’s connected to the utility grids in your local area. Whatever excess energy your panels generate is supplied to the electricity grid, and you earn revenue out of it (known as net metering). This reduces your utility bills further.
And in case the panels fail to generate enough energy to fulfill your daily electricity requirements, you can draw power from the utility grid. On-grid solar systems are a good option, except in remote areas with no access to utility grids, or in areas that experience frequent power cuts.
Off-Grid Solar System
An off-grid solar panel system is not attached to any electricity grid and it uses batteries to store the power generated by the solar array. When the panels generate excess energy, it is stored in the batteries, which step up when you lose access to sunlight (at night or during bad weather conditions).
With this solar system, you get complete independence from grid failure and power outages. The system is remote and self-sufficient, as long as there are batteries for energy backup. It gives you access to electricity even in regions without provisions for a power connection.
Hybrid Solar System
A hybrid solar system combines the best features of both on-grid and off-grid systems. It is connected to the utility grid, and also has the backup of inverters and batteries.
This allows your system to store the excess energy produced during the daytime in the batteries, and save them for future use, instead of sending it to the grid. When the batteries have reached their full capacity and your system is still generating more power, only then does it go into the utility grid.
With a hybrid system, your house will have uninterrupted access to electricity all the time, despite power outages and bad weather conditions.
Want to know how much you’ll pay upfront to go solar?
Testimonials
“Choosing KR Solar was the best decision I made for my home. Their solar panels are incredibly efficient, and I’m already noticing a considerable drop in my energy bills. The team was professional and made the entire install process hassle-free.”
“The installation was seamless, and their solar panels are top-notch. I’m thrilled with the savings and the environmentally freindly impact in our choice to go solar. Highly recommend KR Solar for anyone considering solar power”
“Switching to solar power with KR Solar was a game-chamger for me. I significantly reduced my energy bill, and the installation process was smooth, and their customer service at KR Solar is exceptional. You won’t regret your decision to go solar.”
UTILITY RATES ARE SKYROCKETING
Utility rates have increased by more than 50%. Stop renting your power and find out how much you could be saving with Solar.
Call Us: (844) 676-5454
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Cutting your power bills down to size isn’t the only way solar power saves you money. You may also be eligible for tax credits. These incentives are designed to encourage solar energy use.
Q: What is the process for going solar?
A: After you complete your solar panel purchase, we will forward your paperwork to our trusted installer partner. Our project team and the Installer will then work together to customize your design plan and begin the installation process. Once the system is installed and connected to the grid, you can start enjoying the benefits of solar energy and begin saving on your energy bills!
Q: How long will the installation process take?
A: The length of the installation process can vary depending on factors such as the size of the system, location, and utility company. On average, the installation process takes between 2 to 4 months from start to finish. Our team will work closely with you throughout the process to ensure that everything is completed as efficiently and quickly as possible.
Q: Will solar panels affect the value of my home?
A: Absolutely! According to recent reports, solar panels can increase the value of your home right away. In addition to saving you money on energy bills, solar panels are an attractive feature for homebuyers who are looking for homes with sustainable and eco-friendly features. By installing solar panels on your home, you can potentially increase its resale value and make it a more attractive option for potential buyers.
Q: What happens to the system if I Move?
A: If you own your solar panel system, you can relocate it or include it in your home’s value. If you leased the system, you can pay it off and take it with you or transfer it to the new homeowner. You can also include the payoff amount in your listing price.
Q: Can I store excess energy generated by my solar panels?
A: Yes, you can store excess energy generated by your solar panels by installing a solar storage battery. If your system includes a battery, any excess energy produced will be sent there for later use. However, if your system does not have a battery, excess energy will be sent to the utility grid until sundown and credited to your next billing cycle.
Q: Can solar panels be added later?
A: If your roof has the room for additional panels, you can install more panels!
Q: What happens during a power outage or bad weather?
During a power outage or bad weather, your solar system will shut off automatically for safety reasons. This is because it’s not safe to send power out to the grid while workers are attempting to fix the power outage. Although weather conditions such as rain and snow can affect system production, solar panels will still continue to produce energy on a cloudy or foggy day. Our free solar wizard includes battery backup information!
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