What are the benefits of installing Solar Panels?
SOLAR BASICS
HOW A SOLAR SYSTEM WORKS
The average solar panel system is made up of four main parts - the solar panels, inverters, distribution panel, and electric meter. These parts are installed either on your roof, or as part of a ground mount or carport. Then, they all come together to turn sunlight into electricity.
What does each part do?
1. Solar Panels
Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity.
2. Inverters
The DC electricity produced by the solar panels flows to the system’s inverters. Inverters convert the DC electricity to an alternating current (AC), which is the current that is used to energize your property.
3. Distribution Panel
The AC flows from the inverter(s) to the distribution panel. From there the electricity is sent into the building to be used. Excess electricity is sent into the utility grid.
4. Electric Meter
The meter is used to measure the flow of electricity to and from the utility grid.
ADVANTAGES
1. Reduce utility bills
Solar energy can reduce your electric bill, giving you control over a fixed cost.
2. Protect Against Rising Electric Rates
With solar, your electric rate will remain the same for the life of the system. You no longer need to be concerned about rising electric rates.
3. It’s Sustainable
During daytime hours your solar system will produce clean energy. Plus, savings on your electric bill will free up your budget so that you can reinvest in other areas.
4. It’s a Set-and-Forget Solution
There are no moving parts to a solar system, so the maintenance and upkeep will be minimal. After installation is complete and the system is energized, you just sit back and enjoy the savings.
INSTALLATION TYPES: ROOF MOUNT & GROUND MOUNT
There are two main types of installation methods for solar systems - roof mounts and ground mounts. With ground mounts, you’ll also have a few other options like tracker mounts and carports. It is important to examine the advantages and disadvantages of all installation types when considering solar, so you end up with the type of systems that’s best for your goals and your budget. Roof Mounts A roof mount is the most common type of installation. This is when the solar racking, which holds the panels in place, is installed directly on the roof. Panels can be attached to flat or sloping roofs consisting of metal, shingle, or rubber materials. Ground Mounts A ground mount and car port is when the panels are secured to a rack structure that is connected to the ground with steel beams or another type of metal post. Ground mounts can be installed in an open area or as a carport over a parking lot. Ground mounts can be installed wherever the conditions are best for solar, making them a great alternative for someone who doesn’t have enough usable roof space or just prefer to not have panels mounted to the roof.
Ground Mount
Ground Mount
Ground Mount
Roof Mount
Ground Mount
Ground Mount
How Do solar panels work?
