The utility grid is the distribution system used by the power companies to transmit electricity from the generating facilities to the consumers. These are typically overhead wires from the small poles [..]

Alternating current is a wave form of electricity varying from positive to negative at 60 times per second (60Hz). This is the measurement used for all your household electrical needs and is the measu [..]

Direct Current is the form of electricty generated by solar panels and it needs to converted to AC to be useable in the home. This conversion is done by means of an inverter. Make sure you understand [..]

The electric panel is the main service to your home or business. It is where the power is supplied to the building from the utility company and where you draw power for consumption in the building. Th [..]

Grid-tied systems operate in parallel with and are connected to the electric utility grid. Most residential PV systems are grid-tied, which allows you to reduce or even eliminate your monthly electric [..]

An inverter is a device that converts DC power from the solar panels, to AC power that can be used in your home and business. The inverter is wired directly into the main electric panel, when more pow [..]

A measure of power equivalent to 1,000 watts or the power required to run ten 100 watt light bulbs in any instant.

(kWh – A common unit of electrical consumption measured by the total energy created by one kilowatt in one hour. A 100 watt light bulb burning for 10 hours uses one kilowatt hour. To determine the siz [..]

A measure of power equivalent to one million watts.

A policy under which a solar system owner can generate electricity during daylight hours and consume grid power over night and settle the utility bill either monthly or annually for the net amount con [..]