How Solar Works

What is a solar electric or photovoltaic system?

Photovoltaic systems (PV systems) are all around us — from solar calculators and traffic signals to satellites in space. PV systems simply convert sunlight into electricity without creating pollution. They work any time the sun is shining, but more electricity is produced when the sunlight is more intense and directly strikes the PV modules (when rays of sunlight are directly over to the PV modules). Solar panels are placed in the least obstructive Southern most location to maximize energy production. Obviously, more energy is produced during peak daytime hourse. Any energy that is not immediately used is stored for later usage or loaned to the grid.

How do solar systems work?

Photovoltaic (PV) cells are made of silicon semiconductors. When the sun’s energy hits the semiconductors, electrons are removed from the atom. These electrons are converted to direct current (DC) electricity. From there, the electricity has two options. If you have a battery back up, the DC electricity is routed through a controller that checks the battery’s charge level. If the battery needs to be charged, the energy goes there first. If the battery is fully charged, the DC electricity is routed to the inverter.
 The inverter converts the DC electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity. Your home requires AC electricity while your battery is charged with DC electricity. The AC electricity runs into your main breaker panel. Once at the breaker panel, the electricity can be used throughout your home.
If your system does not have a battery back up, the DC electricity is routed directly to the inverter. The inverter converts the DC electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity. The AC electricity runs into your main breaker panel. Once at the breaker panel, the electricity can be used throughout your home and the excess is sent back to the grid.

What size solar system do I need?

First, you need to determine how much energy you currently use. This can be done by reviewing your electric bill for the past 12 months. We suggest looking at a full year because everyone’s energy usage fluctuates with the seasons.
 Your budget and the move to becoming more energy efficient will come into play when selecting your system size as well. You can decide the amount of energy you’d like to have the sun generate. It’s not a difficult task, and we’ll be more than happy to help walk you through the process. Contact us to find out how we can help! 

What monetary incentives and solar financing options are available?

Incentives Some utility companies are currently offering cash incentives to consumers who install PV systems and become more energy efficient. Check with your utility company to find out if they have any programs available. Also, the federal government offers tax incentives. You’ll find a current listing of all the programs at this site — just click on the appropriate state: http://www.dsireusa.org/


Financing A few banks actually offer energy efficient mortgages. Check with your mortgage company or local bank regarding available home improvement loans. You can also click on the following link to find out more about energy efficient mortgages: http://www.lansingmortgages.com/eem.html


There are several financing options available. We just have to find the one that’s best for your situation. Contact us today to plan your clean energy solution!