Why Solar?

The benefits of commercial-scale solar energy extend far beyond fiscal savings. Solar benefits the world economically, environmentally and socially. Here's how:

Economic Solar Energy Advantages

Can be permitted and installed faster than other traditional or renewable power plants.
Has a predictable energy curve and is most efficient when utility rates are at their highest. It is a peak demand reducer.
Produces local, on-site energy, which reduces the need for extensive high-voltage transmission lines or a complex infrastructure.
Reliable over the long term. With no moving parts, fixed photovoltaic systems last longer than other energy sources.
Predictable pricing that is equal to or below retail energy rates.

Environmental Solar Energy Advantages

Clean, quiet and designed to be visually unobtrusive in nature. Solar energy plants do not have any polluting emissions, do not make any sound, and are not considered to be an "eyesore."
Uses no water in the production of zero-emission electricity.
Can be placed in virtually every geographical region because the sun is available everywhere.

Social Solar Energy Advantages

Creates clean, renewable energy that will sustain and support the health of future generations.
Is a distributed generation ("DG") energy source that can mitigate national security concerns about energy disruption.
Supports national energy independence because solar electricity is used where it is generated.
Creates good, local jobs for the new energy economy. In fact, solar energy creates more jobs per megawatt hour than any other energy type.

Description of a Typical Solar System

Solar power systems turn sunlight into electricity. Silicon wafers capture photons from sunlight and turn them into DC power, which is then transformed into 120 volt AC power and connected to your existing electrical system as well as the local electrical grid. When the sun shines, you can generate more power than you consume (your meter will literally spin backwards). At night you'll draw on utility company power, essentially using the electrical grid as a giant storage battery.

Typical Components of a Solar System

Solar Cells: Solar power cells make up the building blocks of a solar energy system. These solar power (photovoltaic) cells convert light energy into electricity at the atomic level.
Solar Module: Multiple cells are usually combined into a complete solar module that also includes a frame for the system, electrical interconnections, and mounting hardware.
Solar Panel: Multiple modules are assembled into a solar panel that is then secured to the roof or other structure.
Inverter: An inverter, usually installed on the outside of your home, takes the DC output from the cells and transforms it into usable AC power.
Electric Panel: Electricity will be sent from the inverter to your electric panel (or breaker box). Your meter will spin backward when your solar system produces more electricity than you need and will spin forward at night or on cloudy days.
Utility Grid: The utility grid refers to the electricity going to/from your electric provider. When you go solar, you will send back to the grid the electricity that you produce in excess of your consumption, and use grid electricity at night or on cloudy days.