Below is a brief overview of solar electric components

Solar Cells
Solar cells capture the sun's energy and change it to electricity. Inside a solar panel, each cell contains silicon, an element found in sand that absorbs sunlight. The energy in this absorbed light produces a small electrical current. Metal grids around the solar cells direct the currents into wires that lead to the power controls.

Solar Array
The solar array is comprised of one or more solar PV modules (solar panels) which convert sunlight into clean solar electricity. PV is short for Photovoltaic's, which means electricity from light. The solar modules need to be mounted facing the sun and avoiding shade for best results. Solar panels generate DC power.

Inverter
The Inverter changes the DC solar power into usable 120 Volt AC electricity which is the most common type used by most household appliances and lighting.

Charge Controller
The main function of a charge controller is to prevent over charging which results in out-gassing of the batteries, as well as keeping electrical storage in the batteries from discharging to the solar modules at night.

Batteries
The batteries store the solar power generated and discharge the power as needed. The battery bank consists of one or more solar deep-cycle type batteries. Depending on the current and voltages for certain applications the batteries are wired in series and/or parallel.

Wiring
Selecting the correct size and type of wire will enhance the performance and reliability of your PV system. The size of the wire must be large enough to carry the maximum current expected without undue voltage losses.

Loads
The appliances and devices (such as TV's, computers, lights, water pumps etc.) that consume electrical power are called loads.

Solar Photovoltaic Information

How solar modules are made