How a PV System Works

The Photovoltaic (PV) System

How it Works:

• Energy from the sun hits the solar modules.
• The modules produce direct current (DC) electricity, which flows through a DC disconnect to the inverter.
• The inverter converts the electricity from DC to alternating current (AC) so that it is compatible with the grid. The inverter also sends data to the Data Acquisition System (DAS).
• The AC electricity then flows through an AC disconnect and a production meter to the AC Panel for energy distribution. At this point, it can either be used for on-site energy needs or sent through a net-utility meter into the grid. The energy sent to the utility grid will then be credited to facility according to pertinent net-metering policies. 

To get more information on how solar energy works, visit our interactive tutorial under How Solar Works.