How Solar Works
The custom designed and selected components of a Vista Solar system work seamlessly to supply your home with a clean and efficient source of energy. Here’s an introduction to how our systems work.
- Solar Modules (Panels)
Solar modules are typically installed on rooftops or on the ground near a home. Their purpose is to collect energy from the sun and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity.
- Array
An array is simply a collection of solar modules. A residential solar system is usually made up of only one array. However, some large residential systems might be made up of several arrays that collect energy at different times of the day.
- Inverter
Energy flowing from the solar modules must first be converted from DC to AC (standard household electricity) electricity prior to being used in the home. The inverter performs this function, as well as, delegating the amount of electricity that is sent either to the electrical panel, Utility grid, or batteries.
- Electrical Panel (Service)
The AC power flows from the inverter to the home’s electrical panel. The electrical panel then distributes the power to the loads (lights, refrigerator, etc.) in the building. The electrical meter is connected to the electrical panel. From there it monitors the amount of electricity being consumed by the loads in the home. If the solar system produces more electricity than the home’s loads require, then the excess electricity flows into the Utility grid, spinning the meter backwards. If the home is using more electricity than the solar system is generating, then electricity is pulled from the Utility grid to make up the difference.
- Monitoring
Monitoring systems are designed to keep track of the energy production levels of the solar system. Most monitoring systems are linked to the web to allow system owners instantaneous access to current and historic data on the solar system’s performance. Vista Solar’s remote monitoring system, is also programmed to detect failures in the solar system and alert us, so that our support team can diagnose the problem immediately.
- Utility Grid
This is the local utility company’s network, which distributes electricity from a generation point to homes and businesses. Grid-tied solar systems allow the homeowner to not only draw electricity out of the grid, but also feed power back into it as well.
