The basics
Solar, explained simply.
Solar is a home energy system. Here is how the pieces work together—and where local utility rules matter.
From sunlight to the outlets in your home
An inverter converts the electricity for household use.
The home uses solar production first.
Excess power may interact with the grid depending on utility rules.
Batteries can store electricity for later use where configured.
Panels
Capture sunlight and turn it into direct-current electricity.
Inverter
Converts that electricity into the type your home can use.
Utility meter
Measures electricity moving between your home and the grid.
Battery storage
Stores energy for later use where a battery is configured.
Monitoring
Helps you understand system production and household usage.
Your next step
Check My Solar OptionsSee how the numbers could look for your home.
A quick evaluation can help you understand whether solar is worth exploring for your home.