Solar energy benefits you and the environment, and it's a good way to contribute to energy sustainability. You can reduce your monthly electric bill and also play an important role in moving the state toward a cleaner energy future.
Solar electric or PV technology uses the sun’s energy to make electricity. When sunlight strikes an array of solar panels, electrons are freed by the interaction of sunlight with semiconductor materials (typically silicon). The movement of electrons creates current, thus creating direct current (DC) power.
DC is the only type of current produced by solar cells. Appliances and machinery, however, operate on alternating current (AC) as supplied by your utility. The DC energy produced by the panels is fed into an inverter that transforms the DC power into AC power, which then feeds into the main electrical panel that powers your house or business.
You will want to consider how much sunlight your property receives. Your property should have clear access to the sun for most of the day, and throughout the year. Since shading will reduce the amount of electricity your system will produce, PV panels should be installed in a location that is not shaded by trees, chimneys, or nearby structures.
The best orientation for a PV system is on a south or southwest-facing roof. Flat roofs can work, since PV arrays can be mounted on frames tilting south or southwest. PV arrays can also be mounted on the ground.