Components of Your Solar Power System
When you get a photovoltaic power system, most of the attention goes to the solar panels themselves. That makes sense — after all, the panels collect the sunlight so it can be converted to electrical energy. It’s the main component you see on rooftops, carports and fixed arrays. Still, your panels aren’t simply plug-and-play, connecting to the power grid with a USB cable. There are many components needed to make sure your photovoltaic power system works right. Let’s discuss a few of the key components used by Solaron to put together your Sacramento or Bay Area solar electrical system.
- Photovoltaic cells — also called solar cells, are the primary components of solar panels. Solar cells convert the energy of light into electrical energy through what is called the photovoltaic effect. Depending on the size and configuration of the panel, there may be anywhere from 32 to 96 cells. The size of the individual cell also matters, affecting its efficiency. SunPower’s A-Series panels contain Maxeon solar cells that are 65% larger than earlier models, converting more electricity with a smaller number of cells.
- Photovoltaic modules — these are the panels themselves, housing the solar cells in a solid metal frame and attaching them together, creating a solar cell collection. Arranging the cells in several configurations allows for different sizes of panels with varied power outputs. This gives Solaron the ability to find the right panels for your home regardless of the shape of your roof.
- Inverter — this is another key component to the photovoltaic system. When solar cells convert sunlight to electricity, the electricity is direct current (DC). Your home, and many of your electrical appliances, run on alternating current (AC). The inverter safely changes the electricity from DC to AC, so your home and devices can use it. Many solar panel systems connect multiple panels to a few inverters, trying to increase their profit margin by reducing the number of parts. But with SunPower, each solar panel has its own factory-integrated microinverter. This boosts production at the panel itself, and results in delivering more power per square foot than other solar panels.
Benefits of a Single Source
But SunPower takes their solar power systems even further. Instead of getting components from several different manufacturers, the Equinox integration system from SunPower is designed and engineered by one company. Every component of your photovoltaic power system is devised to fit and work together perfectly, from panel to plug. This also streamlines the system, eliminating unnecessary hardware. What’s more, the entire system — not just the panels — is covered by a single 25-year warranty!
For reasons like these, Solaron is proud to install SunPower Solar systems exclusively. Every component is meant to work with the others. All are made from the best materials and created with the highest quality. To find out what SunPower system and configuration is best for your home or business, contact Solaron via phone — or use our online form to schedule a free solar analysis.