SOLAR BASICS: Learn about how solar energy works

Many of the terms used in the solar industry are new to a lot of us. Learning the basics of solar systems is outlined below.

Omega Solar Systems understands that most solar companies are rushing to sell you solar systems. We take the necessary time to help you understand all about GOING SOLAR!

3 Basic types of Solar Energy:

1-On-Grid Solar Electricity
2-Off-Grid Solar Electricity
3-Solar Thermal

TIP #1 : Solar Modules = Solar Panels = Photovoltaics
TIP #2 : Learn solar definitions from A to Z here. Click here to learn more.

On-Grid Solar Electricity

If you are on-grid, this simply means your solar panels are installed on your roof or installed in your yard or on an adjacent structure and that you are still connected to your local utility providerʼs electrical for back up power. If there is a power outage, you would still have power because with an On-Grid solar system you have a battery backup that is constantly being re-charged by your solar panels.

Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into DC power.

Off-Grid Solar Electricity

If you are off-grid, this simply means your solar panels are installed on your roof or installed in your yard or on an adjacent structure and that you are NOT connected to your local utility providerʼs electrical for back up power. If there is a power outage, you would still have power because with an off-Grid solar system you have a battery backup that is constantly being re-charged by your solar panels as well as no reliance on your local utility company for electricity. As long as the sun is shining, even when it is cloudy, you will have electricity.

Inverter

Basically, this is how the DC power, which was converted from FREE, RENEWABLE sunlight, converts into AC power:

DC power produce from the photovoltaic cells in your solar system is sent to an inverter, where it is then converted into AC power, also known as standard household electricity.

Electrical Panel

Most of us are familiar with the electrical panel, or breaker box. The AC power, which was just converted by the INVERTER, travels from the inverter to the electrical panel, or breaker box. This power is instantly available to service all of your electrical needs, all powered by the sun! The utility meter continually measures your electrical supply, even though you are not using your local utility companyʼs electricity. Your solar system will produce more power than you need and THE METER WILL SPIN BACKWARDS giving you credits with your local utility company. You will not see this happening with Off-Grid solar systems, as you pretty much cut ties with your local utility company.

Utility Grid and Lines

The utility grid, supplied by your local utility company, stays where it is, and will continue to supply you with electricity when you need more power than your solar system has produced. You will not have a supply of electricity from the utility company if you are Off- Grid.