How Solar Works
Solar power is a relatively simple technology which put broadly is the conversion of the suns energy by a solar panel (also known as a photovoltaic module - PV) which is then fed into a device known as an inverter which connects to your existing mains power supply.
A solar panel is made up of thousands of light catching cells that are largely responsible for the conversion of light energy into electrical energy. The crystals which make up a solar cell are also known as a photovoltaic module, or PV. Put simply “photo” translates to light and “voltaic” translates to energy.
PV cells capture the light and send it towards the diodes, which in turn absorb some of this light as heat energy. Most diodes are made up of semiconductor materials such as silicon which fundamentally have a tendency to conduct electricity in one direction. The heat energy transferred to the diode cause electrons to start moving – we now have
a flow of energy.
This flow of energy is then directed (wired) to a device known as an inverter. The inverter converts the DC (Direct Current) power into 240V AC (Alternating Current) required by most household appliances including lighting and household appliances.
Most solar energy systems are connected to the electricity network grid, and are referred to as a grid-connect system as illustrated in Figure 1. Grid-connected solar energy systems allow excess electricity (that is not used by the home owner) to be exported back into the grid, which many retailers now pay a tariff for. Conversely and at times of low solar production, you draw electricity from the grid. To achieve grid-connection, ETSA upgrade the electricity meter on your home, which depending on age and style is relatively inexpensive.
Solar energy systems may also be utilised as a stand-alone system where the system is not connected to conventional grid electricity. Stand alone systems may either be configured to operate only during hours of sufficient sunlight or may be connected to a single or bank of batteries which store electricity produced by the system. Many examples of stand-alone
systems can be found in remote areas where conventional electricity is not readily available or is too costly.