Solar Roofs

Solar Power for Homes: How Does a Solar Panel System Work?

how a solar power system works
How a home solar panel system works in 4 steps
  1. Solar cells convert photons to electricity: All photovoltaic solar power systems like the traditional solar panels, BiPV solar shingles and tiles, and thin-film solar laminates contain photovoltaic solar cells designed to convert solar energy to electricity. When the sun shines, the energy carried by the photons gets absorbed by the solar cells that convert it to direct current (DC) electricity.
  2. Inverter converts direct (DC) current to alternating current (AC): All rooftop solar panel systems are normally connected to an inverter by a licensed electrician during the installation. The inverter inverts (converts) the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar cells to alternating current (AC), which is the kind of electricity people use in their homes.
  3. Alternating current flows through the electric panel into your home: Alternating current from the inverter flows through the electric panel (circuit breaker box) into your home, powering things like home lighting and appliances.
  4. Any unused electricity gets sent back to the electric grid: Any excess electricity that is not used domestically, passes through the electric meter and gets sent back to the grid, usually for electricity credits via net metering.

Net Metering: If you live in one of the 41 states that have adopted Net Metering rules, you can sell any excess solar-generated electricity back to the local electric grid for credits.

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Tesla Solar Roof Shingles vs. Traditional Solar Panels: What You Need to Know

Tesla has become a household name in many parts of the world, and you have probably read or heard about their solar roof shingles. They can be described as miniature photovoltaic panels that look more like the traditional asphalt shingles, and many homeowners prefer this look.

via Tesla SolarRoof

If you’re trying to decide between a Tesla solar roof and a traditional solar panel system, this buying guide will help you compare both options.

First, there is a very important difference between solar roof shingles and conventional solar panels.

  • Solar roof shingles are the combination of two products. They serve as a roof for your home, but they also generate electricity.
  • Solar panels are separate components that are installed on top of your roof, using the right type of racking system.

This difference has a very important implication for homeowners. Solar panels can be installed on almost any roof, as long as the structure is capable of carrying their weight. However, you replace your existing roof completely when using Tesla solar shingles, and this makes the project more expensive.

Based on upfront costs and return on investment, traditional solar panels are the recommended option for most homeowners. However, a Tesla solar roof can make sense financially if you’re planning to build a new home with solar panels, since you haven’t spent on a roof yet and you have the chance to combine two building elements.

Solar roof shingles are also viable economically if you have an old roof that will need replacement soon. Just keep in mind that delivery times can be long, due to the growing popularity of Tesla products in general.

Of course, personal preference is also important when deciding between different products. Installing a Tesla solar roof is a great option if you don’t like the appearance of solar panels, or if you’re loyal to the brand and prefer their products. However, keep in mind that Tesla also installs traditional solar panels as an alternative to solar tiles, and their price tag is much lower.

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Do I Have a Suitable Roof for Solar Panels?

Solar panels use racking systems with several mounting options, and they can be used on most residential roofs. However, even if you have an adequate roof, finding the optimal orientation and layout for your panels is also very important. Ideally, you will want to use the roof areas with the most sunshine, while avoiding shaded areas as much as possible – even a small shadow can greatly reduce the energy output of your solar array.

Residential rooftop solar panels on the south-facing side of the roof/house.

Installing solar panels is relatively easy if you have conventional asphalt shingles or a standing seam metal roof.

On the other hand, some roof tiles may be damaged if your roof uses a brittle material like slate or clay. However, if you work with professional solar installers, the number of broken tiles will be minimal or zero.

Asbestos is the only roofing material that may limit your ability to add solar panels as most providers will not work on these roofs. Harmful fibers are released when manipulating asbestos, especially when drilling. These fibers are not only dangerous for the installers, but also for anyone living under that roof. If this is your situation and you plan to go solar, a complete and well-planned roof replacement is strongly recommended.

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