How Does a Solar System Work? Simplified Explanation

Assessing Your Energy Needs: To determine the right size for your solar energy system, we start by calculating the peak wattage draw—this is the maximum power your home consumes when all appliances are in use at the same time, such as lights, microwaves, TVs, etc. Knowing this peak wattage helps us ensure that the solar inverter can handle this load without tripping. Solar energy systems for homes are designed to meet the electrical demands of your household appliances by harnessing solar power.

1. Understanding Inverters in a Solar System

An inverter is a key component of a solar system, acting as the brain behind the operation. It converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in your home or business. Based on your home’s peak wattage usage, we select an appropriately sized inverter. For instance, if your home’s peak usage is 7,000 watts (7 kW), we would recommend an 8,000-watt (8 kW) inverter. This extra capacity helps prevent the inverter from running at full capacity all the time, which extends its lifespan. Inverters come in several types, each suited to different solar setups:

• Grid-Tied Inverters: These are connected to the utility grid and are designed to send excess electricity back to the grid. They are ideal for those who want to offset their energy costs and still rely on grid power when needed. Grid-tie inverters do not work with batteries and if the grid fails, these inverters are required to shut down as well as synchronize with the grid.
• Off-Grid Inverters: Used in systems completely independent of the utility grid, these inverters manage energy storage and power supply entirely from solar panels and batteries, making them perfect for remote locations. However, Off-Grid inverters can still integrate with the grid as a power source.
• Hybrid Inverters: Combining the best of both worlds, hybrid inverters can connect to the grid and manage battery storage. They provide flexibility to use, store, or sell back solar energy, which is particularly useful during power outages and load-shedding. Hybrid inverters can blend power from different power sources to accommodate your electrical loads. Should the grid fail, the inverter won’t shut down but will resort to being an off-grid inverter system, still producing power from a generator, solar panels or batteries.

2. How Solar Panels Work and Their Sizing

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. Sizing solar panels correctly is crucial to ensure they meet the energy demands of your home or business and match the specifications of your inverter. The total wattage of your solar panels should not exceed the inverter’s capacity to convert energy. For example, if you have a 5kW inverter, the combined wattage of your solar panels should ideally be close to, but not over, 5kW to maximize efficiency and avoid overloading the inverter. The capacity of your solar panels should ideally exceed your home’s energy load to compensate for energy loss due to resistance and inefficiencies such as dust, clouds, and pollution. For example, if your home requires 7,000 watts of power and you’re using a correctly sized inverter, installing a solar panel system of at least 10,000 watts will help ensure that your energy needs are met without relying on the grid. For homes with a 7,000-watt load but only 4,000 watts of solar panels installed a hybrid inverter can be used. This type of inverter can blend solar power with additional power drawn from the grid to fully meet the home’s energy demand, thereby still achieving significant savings on electricity costs.

3. Battery Backup Storage

For systems that need to provide power during the night or on cloudy days, battery backup storage is essential. Batteries are crucial for providing power during times when the grid is down or when solar panels are not producing electricity, like at night or on cloudy days. The size of the battery system will depend on how much power you need during these times. Lithium phosphate batteries are a popular choice due to their safety, long life, and efficiency compared to other battery types. The capacity of these batteries needs to be sized based on the electrical loads they will need to handle when there is no solar generation. This ensures there is enough stored power to meet your needs during the night or when the sun isn’t shining.

4. The Future of Solar Energy

Solar energy is a game-changer for reducing electricity bills and providing independent power generation, especially in South Africa, where load-shedding can be a frequent issue. By installing a solar system, you can generate clean energy, reduce reliance on the grid, and significantly cut your electricity costs. Furthermore, solar power can provide an uninterrupted power supply during outages, making it a reliable alternative to traditional power sources.

Summary

Installation Considerations: Installation should always be performed by a qualified professional. Our team can conduct a pre-installation inspection to ensure that all components are tailored to your home’s specific requirements. This includes verifying that all connections are safe and efficient and that the system is compliant with local regulations.

Incorporating a solar system involves understanding the role and proper sizing of inverters, solar panels, and batteries. Each component must be carefully chosen to ensure it meets the energy requirements and enhances the efficiency of your solar setup. With the advancements in solar technology and the increasing need for sustainable energy solutions, solar power is undoubtedly a smart investment for the present and future, especially in regions like South Africa.

Get Started with JC Solar Panels: If you’re considering a solar energy system for your home, JC Solar Panels offers expert advice and installation services. Contact us to learn more about our solar solutions or to discuss your specific energy needs. We’re here to help you transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.