Feb 12, 2025
Wait so... How Does Solar Actually Work?
Everyone has a general idea of how solar works. The sun rises, its rays hit those big blue reflective panels, and boom, we get energy. But aren’t you curious about the actual process? Yes, those panels absorb sunlight, but how does that energy get converted into usable electricity?
To understand solar power, let’s break down its key components: solar panels, solar inverters, battery storage, proper wiring & electrical panels, net metering, and smart energy management systems. Each plays a crucial role in efficiently harnessing the sun’s power.
Solar panels are the first step in this energy transformation. They contain photovoltaic (PV) cells, which absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. This process, called the photovoltaic effect, allows solar panels to generate power as long as the sun is shining. However, most homes and appliances run on alternating current (AC) electricity, which means the energy must be converted before we can use it.
Okay, so solar panels absorb sunlight and create direct current, but we can’t use it yet?
This is where solar inverters come in. They take the DC electricity from the panels and convert it into AC power, making it compatible with your home’s electrical system. TrustPower Solar offers different types of inverters, each suited for specific needs. String inverters are commonly used in residential and commercial setups. Central inverters are designed for large-scale solar power plants. Hybrid inverters manage both solar panels and battery storage, allowing for greater energy flexibility.
Once the inverter has converted the electricity, it flows through your electrical panel, distributing power to your lights, appliances, and outlets. Proper wiring is essential to ensure safety and efficiency in the system.
Great, so we have all this energy, but how do we store it?
Sometimes, solar panels generate more energy than needed. Instead of wasting it, a battery storage system allows you to store excess energy for later use, like during nighttime. This ensures a continuous power supply without relying on the grid. If your home is grid-connected, any excess energy produced can be sent back to the grid through a process called net metering, which allows you to earn credits on your electricity bill. This setup not only optimises energy use but also helps maximise the return on your solar investment.
Sounds pretty technical, right?
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Don’t worry—TrustPower Solar is here to guide you every step of the way.