The Main Components of a Solar Power System

A solar energy generating system relies on four main components: solar panels, inverter, batteries, and charge controller. While other parts and pieces may need to be added, those are the four main ones to know about. Let’s look at each of them.

Solar panels

Solar panels use the photovoltaic effect to convert the sun’s rays into electricity. These panels are usually located on the roof of a home in an array. Each solar panel will often have an output of 100 to 300 watts, although it sometimes falls outside that range.

Charge controller

The electricity coming from the solar panels is constant, so long as they are getting sunlight. Before that power can be sent to batteries, it must go through a charge controller. This device regulates the voltage coming from solar panels, preventing the batteries from overcharging, a potentially hazardous condition.

Batteries

When the voltage leaves the charge controller, it then heads to the batteries. Like the solar panels themselves, many batteries can be strung together to increase storage capacity. This storage is needed since the panels do not produce energy when the sun isn’t shining.

Inverter

Almost all homes use alternating current. Since solar panels produce direct current, any system needs an inverter to convert the electricity to AC. This then leads to a breaker panel and the electricity is used the same as in a conventional system.

Energy Concepts can handle all of your solar needs. If you’re interested in solar, give us a call at (559) 485-2504 or fill out an online contact form!