On-Grid Solar Power Systems

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of an on-grid solar power plant, products involved and working in a simpler way:

Solar Panels

These panels, made of photovoltaic (PV) cells, capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. The panels are typically installed on rooftops or in large arrays, facing the sun to maximize energy capture.

Inverter

The DC electricity produced by the solar panels is not suitable for home use or for integration with the power grid. The inverter converts this DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is the standard form of electricity used by most home appliances and the power grid.

Net Metering

Many on-grid systems use net metering, a billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid. If you produce more electricity than you consume, you earn credits that offset the cost of the electricity you draw from the grid when your solar production is insufficient.

Safety and Compliance

On-grid systems are designed to meet safety standards and regulations to prevent issues such as back-feeding (sending electricity back into the grid during a power outage) which can be hazardous. Components like safety disconnect switches and grid-tie inverters ensure that the system operates safely and complies with local codes.

Electric Meter

A bi-directional meter measures both the electricity consumed from the grid and the excess electricity generated by your solar system and sent back to the grid. This meter helps track your energy use and ensures that you are credited or billed accurately based on your net energy consumption or production.

In summary, on-grid solar power plants generate solar electricity, convert it into usable AC power, and integrate with the local power grid, allowing for efficient energy use and savings through net metering.

Grid Connection

The system is connected to the local power grid, allowing you to draw power from the grid when your solar panels aren’t producing enough electricity (e.g., at night or on cloudy days). When your system generates more electricity than you need, the excess is fed back into the grid, helping to supply power to other users and potentially earning you credits or reducing your electricity bill.