Frequently Asked Questions
What is a solar panel?
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Solar PV panels are also known as photovoltaic or PV modules that transform sunlight energy into electricity.
How do Solar systems work?
- A solar system is composed of solar panels that are mounted on the roof with electrical wiring and an inverter. During the day from sunrise to sunset, the solar panels will generate Direct Current electricity (DC) which is sent to the inverter. The inverter will then convert the Direct Current electricity into Alternate Current Electricity(AC) for the household to use.
What is an inverter?
- An inverter converts the Direct current (DC) power from the solar panel to Alternating current (AC) power to the household. The inverter will also export any excess power back into the electricity grid.
What system size will I need to run my home?
Is my home suitable for a solar power system?
- There are several aspects that will need to be evaluated to determine if your home is a good solar site. These aspects include orientation, space available, shadows on the space available, and your current electricity usage.
How does electricity get stored for use after the sun goes down?
- Grid connect systems direct excess electricity produced during the day back into the local electricity grid. You then receive a credit (Feed in tariff) for any power that your system supplied to the grid. During the night when your system does not produce electricity and you draw your power from the grid and your electricity meter measures your consumption. Feed in tariff rates may vary any time.
Do I still need electricity from the grid?
- Yes. Your solar system will generate electricity during peak daylight hours and any electricity that is not consumed during this time will be sold back to the grid. When your solar system is not working during the night or bad weather, you will draw electricity back from the grid. You will also withdraw electricity from the grid during the day time if you require more electricity than what your system is producing.
Why is my solar power system not working at night?
- Solar panel systems work during the day to produce power for your home. At night, there is not enough sunlight to sustain operation and as a result, your solar power system will turn off when the sun is down and then resume work in the morning.
What if my roof doesn’t face North?
- North facing is best for absolute production, however solar panel systems can be installed on roofs that are facing anywhere from East to West. A well designed solar panel system will match your solar production to your homes electricity consumption.
What if I have a flat or low-pitched roof?
- Solar panel systems can be installed on flat roofs using tilting frames that are installed at an extra expense. A slight pitch is recommended to allow water to runoff and self-cleaning.
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