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What is the Solar Electric System? - A Complete Guide

November 26, 2024

You must have an award for solar electric systems as they are getting immensely popular among homeowners. A solar electric system is a photovoltaic system that converts sunlight into electricity using solar panels. They have gained immense popularity because of the environmental benefits and the possibility of saving electrical finances. Let's take a look at all the components and types of solar electric systems.


Components of a Solar Electric System

First and foremost, solar panels are the visible part made up of photovoltaic cells. These silicone-based cells generate electricity when they are exposed to sunlight. Monocrystalline panels are highly efficient and have a longer lifetime, while thin film panels are lightweight and flexible. It is perfect for unconventional installations.


Inverter

The solar inverter is the powerhouse of the solar system that converts the direct current to alternating current. Direct current is produced by the panels, but appliances require alternating currency to operate. You can pick from string inverters, microinverters, and hybrid inverters. String inverters are centralized, while microinverters are installed at each panel for better output.


Battery Storage

Though it's not a necessary part, it's beneficial for solar systems. Batteries would store the excess electricity if it has not been consumed. This energy would be available to use at night time or if sunlight is insufficient. For this, lithium-ion batteries are used because they are super-durable and work at a high-efficiency rate. Batteries increase the benefits, but it costs a slightly higher investment.


Mounting System

The solar panels need a stable and durable mounting system that keeps them in position. Since they are exposed on the roof; higher wind speeds can cause a disturbance. This is prevented through a mounting system. Roof-mounted systems provide the highest sun exposure to the panels, yet ground-mounted systems can be used for open areas. The latest invention is tracking mounts, which would turn their direction toward the sun’s rays.


How Does a Solar Electric System Work?

Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells that absorb sunlight. It constitutes silicone that generates a flow of electric current when it is exposed to light. This photovoltaic effect produces direct electricity.

The DC electricity from solar panels is sent to an inverter because household appliances like Air conditioning demand AC power. Inverters convert DC into AC. Modern inverters can also monitor the performance of the systems.

Next, the AC electricity will flow into the home or the building’s electrical panel, which we call the breaker box. From this point, all appliances are powered. Any excessive electricity that is not used will be managed in two ways;

 

● In grid-tied systems, it is sent back to the grid

● In off-grid systems, the extra energy is stored in batteries for later use

 

Types of Solar Electric Systems

1. Grid-Tied Solar Systems

The most commonly used ones are the grid-tied solar systems. It means they are connected to the local utility grid. They will rely on the grid for power when the solar output is not sufficient. Any excessive energy is also sent to the grid, and you can get some credits through net metering.

They have a lower installation cost. Plus, you have unlimited backup - whenever sunshine is not enough, you can rely on power from the grid. In this case, if a grid outage occurs, you would stay out of power unless you combine it with a battery.

On-Grid Solar Systems


2. Off-Grid Solar Systems

Off-grid, solar systems are used in remote areas where access to the utility grid is restricted. They work independently from any grid and use batteries to store energy. The system must generate new power to cover all your energy requirements in the house even in low-sunlight periods. This is because no energy would be saved. They have a high upfront cost that depends on the battery capacity.

Off-Grid Solar Systems


3. Hybrid Solar Systems

Hybrid solar systems are a combination of the above types. It uses the utility grid and battery storage at the same time. They provide continuous power even during outages. You will get the benefits from both systems and stay energy-independent. Due to the added advantages, the costs are also added up.

Hybrid Solar Systems


Benefits of Solar Electric Systems

● Solar Energy is a renewable energy source. It would reduce the reliance on fossil fuels for energy

● Solar panels give a massive reduction in electricity bills and some extra yearning from metering

● They have negligible latency requirements but still a long lifespan of 20-25 years.

● Solar panels have minimal greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

● It would save you from long durations of power outages.


Bottom Line!

It's good to switch to solar energy to combat climate change by lowering the carbon footprint. It will save water, and the conventional plants for power production require massive amounts of water for cooling. With the advancement of technology, solar electric systems are becoming more efficient and affordable too. Some of the innovations include bifacial penal that captures sunlight from both sides and perovskite solar cells that guarantee higher efficiency. Governments are increasing incentives to make it a viable option for people. It is a must-have for the modern world to get some economic advantages and save future generations from harsh environmental effects. It's ideal for all residential and commercial uses. 

Jhorse is a professional solar electric systems supplier and manufacturer in China with more than 25 years of experience. We are dedicated to producing safety, reasonable pricing, on-time delivery and efficient post-sales services


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