Solar electricity or photovoltaics (PV) is a simple and reliable technology that harnesses the power of sunlight and supplies homes and businesses with clean, renewable energy.
To produce usable amounts of electricity, PV cells are linked together to form a PV module. A group of PV modules form a PV array. In most cases, the PV array will be located with a clear view of the southern sky. PV arrays can be mounted on roofs, poles, ground level racks, or integrated into the building itself.
Direct current (DC) electricity is produced when sunlight shines on the PV array. A device known as an inverter changes the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity which can be used throughout your home.
The size of a PV system is stated in terms of the number of watts (W) it can produce. A watt is a unit of power. A kilowatt (kW) is one thousand watts.
SOLARgeneration can size a PV system to produce 100% of your electrical needs. We can also offer smaller systems to provide a portion of your needs based on your budget.
Electricity produced by the PV system is distributed through your main electric panel. Solar electricity matches the power flowing in the grid and is used exactly the same way as energy purchased from the electric utility.
A watt-hour (Wh) is a measure of electricity used over time. A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is one thousand watt-hours. The electricity you purchase from the grid is measured by a meter in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
Most single family homes in New York State use 20 kWh or more per day. A refrigerator uses approximately 1.2 kWh per day and a computer uses approximately 2.4 kWh per 8-hour workday.
When the PV system produces more electricity than is used, the excess is sold back to the electric utility and distributed through the grid. A net-metering agreement with the electric utility allows for the trading of electricity between you and the grid. In effect, the meter spins backwards.
To connect your PV system to the grid, you must sign an interconnection agreement with the utility company. The interconnection agreement sets the terms and conditions under which a PV system can be safely connected to the grid and outlines metering arrangements for your PV system.
In the event of a power outage, the inverter automatically disconnects the PV system from the grid. This safety disconnect protects utility repair personnel from being injured by electricity flowing from the PV array into what they would expect to be a "dead" utility line. A battery backup system can be installed to store energy your home can use during a utility outage.
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