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Solar power – the basics

AGL understands there are a lot of questions around solar power. Let’s start with the basics. Just how is the sun’s energy converted to the electricity used in your property? It’s as simple as this:

  1. When the sun is shining, the panels of a solar power system capture sunlight and convert it into solar DC power.
  2. The system converts this power into 240V AC electricity you can use around your home, using what’s called an inverter.
  3. Under a net feed–in system this electricity then gets distributed for use around your property, and any electricity that is not used, is fed into the electricity grid through your electricity meter.
  4. Under a gross feed–in system all of the electricity generated is fed into the electricity grid through your electricity meter.

You can see how this process works below.

The parts that make it all happen

Sound simple enough so far? It’s a mixture of technology and mother nature that makes using the sun’s energy possible. The main element involved in the process is sunlight – the source of the energy. This is harnessed by your solar power system, which is comprised of two main parts:

  1. Solar panels – (also known as ‘photovoltaic’ or PV panels) – Used to capture the sunlight and convert it into electricity.
  2. An inverter – To convert the electricity generated by the solar panels into electricity that can be used around your home, or fed into the electricity grid.

We’re making it sound simple, but there is a technical side to it all.

The positives for you

A solar power system could help you save on your energy bill in the following two ways:

  • Less electricity from the grid means less on your bill – With solar power you could draw less electricity from the grid, because the electricity your solar panels generate can be used to help power your home.
  • Offset your bill further – At times your system may generate more electricity than your home requires. Depending on the state you live in, and the solar incentive schemes available, you could receive a feed in tariff for every kWh of this excess electricity you feed into the grid.

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Call 1300 076 188 for more information.