If you are considering doing your bit for the environment by installing a photovoltaic array on your property to generate electricity, then it is worth understanding how such a system works. The technology has been around for quite some time, but a surprising number of people really have no idea how sunlight can generate electrical power. Read on to find out about domestic solar panel installations.

Pricing a Solar Installation

Firstly, it is worth knowing that Australians can benefit from a solar system rebate scheme, which means that much of the upfront cost for any installation over a certain size is covered. You can even get loans for any remaining sums that you might need to pay for your solar panels. Solar generation is possible by either fitting panels to your roof or having them installed on the ground. Either way, the panels are set out in an array. This means that they all work together to generate electrical energy, which is then used locally. If there is spare capacity and the solar array is generating more energy than you need, then this will flow out into the public grid so your home will become a small power station.

Light Into Power

All solar panels contain a thin layer of silicone which reacts to sunlight and creates an electrical field. Bear in mind that you do not need direct sunlight for your solar panels to start generating electricity. They can do it even if it is cloudy. However, the brighter the sunshine, the greater the energy production will be. Unfortunately, solar panels can only create direct current, and what is needed in Australian homes is alternating current. Therefore, your array must be plugged into an inverter in order to change the current from DC to AC. Any approved solar retailer will be able to provide you with a correctly sized inverter to cope with the sort of array you have installed.

A Flexible System

On a sunny day, when your inverter is pumping out lots of alternating current for you, you should be able to run most of your home's electrical products without drawing any power from the grid. As such, your utility bills should drop a great deal. However, when it is night-time, you will still be able to access the grid just like anybody else, so you do not need to store your energy in expensive batteries in order to use it later.

Safety Considerations

Finally, it is worth mentioning that if there is a power cut in your area, your inverter must automatically switch off. All good inverters will do this automatically. The reason for this safety mechanism is that it means electrical engineers can work safely without receiving a potential shock because your solar panels are creating electricity that they might be exposed to. Once the power is restored, your inverter should switch back on again.

For more information, contact a business that installs solar panels.