How solar power works

Solar energy is light or heat from the sun.  Solar power is generated when this energy is collected and converted into usable electricity.  Solar power systems connected to the electricity network consist of solar panels, an inverter and a metering system.

 

Solar panels

Most solar power systems use photovoltaic panels made of silicon.  When light falls on the solar panels an electric current is produced.

 

Inverters

Inverters convert the direct current electricity generated by the solar panel into alternating current for use in homes and businesses.  For the safety of field crews working on the electricity network, inverters on network connected solar power systems must automatically turn off when your electricity supply from the network is interrupted.  Inverters must comply to Australian Standard AS/NZS 4777 and be issued with a Certificate of Suitability from the Office of Fair Trading in NSW or equivalent body in other States or Territories.

 

Metering system

When supplying electricity into the network, the amount of energy exported from the solar power system can be measured through either a gross or net metering arrangement.  In simple terms:

 

• gross metering supplies all the electricity generated by the solar power system directly into the network.
• net metering means your home uses the energy generated by the solar power system first, with the excess energy fed into the network.