How does solar power work?

At its core, solar power is physics, not magic. Photovoltaic panels are made from silicon cells that generate direct current electricity when sunlight excites electrons. With DC, energy flows in one direction. Homes, however, are wired for alternating current where the flow reverses many times per second to safely power appliances.

How do solar panels generate electricity?

Solar panels and mounting materials Solar power systems that generate electricity consist of photovoltaic (PV) panels to harness sunlight and produce electric current. Solar panels absorb sunlight with silicon semiconductors and generate electricity as direct current (DC).

How is solar energy used to power your home?

Most home solar systems are “grid-tied” meaning that the solar system, home electrical system, and local utility grid are all interconnected, typically through the main electrical service panel.

How does a home solar system work?

However, home solar systems typically generate excess electricity during the day, which can be stored in batteries or sent to the local grid in exchange for net metering credits. This is how solar owners maintain power when the sun isn’t shining.

Are solar panels making or creating energy?

Solar panels aren’t making or creating the energy, they are just converting it from sunlight to electricity. With that information in mind, here's how solar energy works step by step. Solar panels convert solar energy from sunlight into electrical energy.

How does concentrated solar power work?

Concentrated solar power (CSP) works similarly to solar hot water in that it transforms sunlight into heat—but it doesn't stop there. CSP technology concentrates solar thermal energy using mirrors and turns it into electricity. At a CSP installation, mirrors reflect the sun to a focal point.