Description of a Typical Solar System
Solar power systems turn sunlight into electricity. Silicon wafers capture photons from sunlight and turn them into DC power, which is then transformed into 120 volt AC power and connected to your existing electrical system — as well as the local electrical grid. When the sun shines, you can generate more power than you consume (your meter will literally spin backwards). At night you’ll draw on utility company power, essentially using the electrical grid as a giant storage battery.
Typical Components of a Solar System
Solar Cells: “Solar power cells” make up the building blocks of a solar energy system. These solar power (photovoltaic) cells convert light energy into electricity at the atomic level.
Solar Module: Multiple cells are usually combined into a complete “solar module” that also includes a frame for the system, electrical interconnections, and mounting hardware.
Solar Panel: Multiple modules are assembled into a “solar panel” that is then secured to the roof or other structure.
Inverter: An “inverter”, usually installed on the outside of your home, takes the DC output from the cells and transforms it into usable AC power.
Electric Panel: Electricity will be sent from the inverter to your “electric panel” (or “breaker box”). Your meter will spin backward when your solar system produces more electricity than you need and will spin forward at night or on cloudy days.
Utility Grid: The “utility grid” refers to the electricity going to/from your electric provider. When you go solar, you will send back to the grid the electricity that you produce in excess of your consumption, and use grid electricity at night or on cloudy days.
Cinnamon Solar offers free on-site Solar Evaluations to provide customized information regarding energy generation for your home, state and local tax rebate entitlements, financing options, and your estimated return on investment. There has never been a better time to go solar with Cinnamon Solar Technologies!
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