Simple explanations of how solar panels convert sunlight into electricity for your home. No engineering degree required!
The basic concept that powers millions of homes worldwide
That's it! Solar panels capture sunlight, convert it to electricity, and power your home. Any excess electricity can be sold back to your utility company.
How photovoltaic cells work their magic
When sunlight (made of tiny particles called photons) hits a solar panel, it strikes silicon cells that have been specially treated to create an electric field. Think of it like a tiny electric sandwich - one layer has extra electrons, the other has fewer electrons.
Fun Fact: A single solar panel contains 60-72 individual solar cells, each about 6 inches square.
The energy from sunlight knocks electrons loose from their atoms. Because of the electric field in the solar cell, these free electrons flow in one direction, creating direct current (DC) electricity. It's like water flowing downhill - the electric field creates a "slope" for electrons to follow.
Key Point: This happens instantly when light hits the panel - there's no delay or warm-up time needed.
The DC electricity flows through wires to a device called an inverter. DC electricity flows in one direction (like a battery), but your home needs AC electricity that alternates direction 60 times per second. The inverter is like a translator between two different electrical languages.
Modern Innovation: Today's inverters also monitor your system's performance and can shut down safely if there's a problem.
The inverter converts DC to AC electricity that flows through your home's electrical panel (breaker box) to power all your devices. Your solar electricity is identical to utility electricity - your appliances can't tell the difference!
Safety Note: If the power grid goes down, most solar systems automatically shut off to protect utility workers (unless you have battery backup).
When your solar panels produce more electricity than you're using, the excess flows back to the electric grid through your meter. This spins your meter backwards, giving you credit for the power you're contributing. It's like having the utility company as your battery!
Net Metering Benefit: You get paid for surplus power during sunny days and use those credits when the sun isn't shining.
The essential parts that make your solar system work
Understanding grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid solar systems
Connected directly to the utility grid. When panels produce more than you use, excess goes to the grid for credit. When you need more power than panels produce, you draw from the grid.
Not connected to utility grid. Requires battery storage to provide power when sun isn't shining. Common in remote areas or for complete energy independence.
Connected to grid but includes battery storage. Provides backup power during outages while still allowing net metering benefits. Growing rapidly in popularity.
The compelling advantages of solar energy
Reduce or eliminate your monthly electric bill. Many homeowners save $100-300+ per month from day one of installation.
Studies show solar panels increase home value by about 4%, or roughly $15,000 for the median-priced home.
A typical home solar system prevents 3-4 tons of carbon emissions annually - equivalent to planting 100+ trees per year.
Protect yourself from rising utility rates. Lock in your energy costs for 25+ years with predictable solar production.
With battery backup, maintain power during outages. Essential for home offices, medical equipment, and modern connected lifestyles.
Solar systems have no moving parts. Occasional cleaning and annual inspections are typically all that's needed.
Common questions about how solar works
Now that you understand how solar works, see how much you can save with a custom solar analysis for your home.