A solar and battery system works a little like a team. Each part has a job, and together they help power your home.
Here's how it works.
Solar panels sit on your roof and capture energy from the sun.
They turn sunlight into electricity.
That electricity can be used to power your lights, refrigerator, television, air conditioning, and other things in your home.
Solar panels produce a kind of electricity called DC (direct current).
Most things in your home use AC (alternating current).
An inverter changes the electricity into the kind your house can use.
Think of it as a translator that helps your solar panels and your home speak the same language!
When the sun is shining, your home can use electricity from your solar panels.
If your panels make more electricity than your home needs, that extra energy may be stored in a battery or sent to the power grid, depending on how your system is designed.
Your battery is like a rechargeable energy bank.
During the day, it can store extra electricity from your solar panels.
Later, when the sun goes down, your home can use that saved energy instead of buying as much electricity from PG&E.
What happens if it's cloudy or your battery runs low?
No problem. When the grid is working, your home can get electricity from PG&E whenever your solar and battery system isn't providing enough.
This is where a properly designed battery backup system can really shine!
When the grid loses power, the backup system safely disconnects your home from the grid.
Your battery can then provide electricity to the parts of your home chosen for backup.
If the sun is shining and your system is designed for it, solar panels can also help power your home and recharge the battery.
One important thing: Not all solar systems or batteries provide backup power. Backup equipment and proper system design are essential.
During the day: Your solar panels make electricity.
In the evening: Your battery can supply electricity saved earlier.
During a power outage: A properly equipped backup system can keep selected household equipment running.
When you need extra electricity: The power grid can help, as long as it is operating.
Every household uses electricity a little differently. Some people want to lower their utility bills. Others want backup power for emergencies. Many want both!
I help homeowners throughout Sonoma, Marin, and Napa counties explore solar and battery options that fit their needs.
Making a Difference Every Day