Understanding Solar Energy
Residential Solar Installation
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Solar Panels
Solar panels use photovoltaic technology to convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electric power. The DC is sent to the inverter for conversion to commonly used alternating current (AC) — DC is made available for use only if your home or business has specific DC appliances.
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Inverter
The inverter converts the DC power generated by the solar panels into the AC power required by common household appliances and most other residential and business electricity uses.
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Meter
The meter is the connection between your home or business and the O&R distribution system and allows us to monitor your electric usage. Solar customers are connected with a specific tariff known as “net metering,” which allows for any excess power generated by your solar panels to be sold to O&R and exported to the grid for other customers.
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Customer Supply Panel
AC power travels through the supply panel for distribution to appliances, lights, and other sources of demand throughout your home or business. The supply panel is also connected to the O&R meter.