How does a solar electrical system work?

Solar panels mounted on your roof convert sunlight directly into DC power. An inverter then converts this DC power into AC power (the type that can be used in your home). The system is interconnected with your utility.

During the day, your utility may allow ‘net metering’ or the crediting of your utility account for the excess power generated being returned to the grid. Your utility would provide power as usual at night and during the day when you use more electricity than your solar system produces. If a roof-mounted system is impractical, a system can also be mounted on the ground. Click the “Next” button in the animation below and watch it work.