Solar 101 Overview
In simple terms, solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. This electricity can be consumed in a home or fed onto the electrical grid for distribution.
Power from the sun is the most abundant natural resource available; however, our access to this resource is limited by the length of days, our location, and the weather.
Solar 101 Education
Introduction
Solar power has gained popularity in recent years as advances in technology and tax subsidies have reduced costs. There are three essential components: Sunlight, Solar Panels, and DC to AC Inverter.
Sunlight
Sunlight is a pure form of energy. In the 1800’s, Alexander Becquerel discovered the Photovoltaic Effect, a way to convert sunlight into electricity.
Solar Panels
Comprised of interconnected silicon cells. When sunlight strikes the cell, electrons are emitted creating electrical current. Size determines power output.
Panel Output
Typical panels range from 250 to 400 watts. A single 250-watt panel, under ideal conditions, could power approximately 4) 60 watt light bulbs.
DC to AC Converter
Panels produce direct current (DC). Homes use Alternating Current (AC). The inverter converts DC into the usable and standard form of AC.
Putting It Together
Home systems require ~10kW (40 panels). The inverter synchronizes with the electric company power then delivers energy directly to the grid.
What Happens At Night?
At night, panels produce no energy. Clouds, rain, and shade have a significant impact; a cloudy day can cut production by 70 to 90%.
Power Outages
Solar arrays tied to the grid are designed to discontinue operation during an outage. Once power is restored, the inverter resynchronizes.
Is Solar Right For Me?
Factors: Rooftop suitability, ROI timeline, insurance coverage, roof age, neighborhood covenants, and federal tax credits.
Green Power Programs
Buy portions of your electricity from a TVA program that generates power from clean, renewable resources.
North Georgia EMC (NGEMC) is offering residential customers the choice to buy portions of their electricity from a program called Green Switch® offered through the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).
With Green Power Switch, you may buy a portion of your TVA power generated from three renewable energy sources: wind, solar, and methane gas.
What value is there for you in contributing to Green Switch? First, Green power is generated with renewable resource technology that lowers the environmental impact. Second, your investment in Green Switch goes directly into developing new Green power technology. Third, all the Green power TVA generates is added to the Valley’s power mix.
Why does green power cost more?
Because while renewable resources like sunlight may be free, the technology used to capture their energy is still more expensive than traditional power generation methods. By choosing to pay a little more for Green Switch, you help advance the technology and increase the amount of electricity generated from cleaner sources.
Thinking of installing solar panels or a generator?
If you are considering solar or have recently installed solar or a back-up generator, please let us know!
We can help you answer any questions you may have. Also, when you report the location of these devices, we can add a note to our system to line crews know to isolate themselves from your power source while performing maintenance or restoring power.