1. Solar Panels

Photovoltaic (PV) cells are made of a semiconductor material such as silicon. When light strikes the cell, the energy of the absorbed light is transferred to the semiconductor. The energy knocks electrons loose, and electric fields force these electrons to flow in a certain direction. This flow of electrons is a current, and by placing metal contacts on the top and bottom of the PV cell, the current is drawn off to power a home.

2. Charge controller

Ensures the battery is not over charged.

3. Batteries

Store the electricity generated as Direct Current (DC).

4. Inverter

The appliances in your home run on Alternating Current (AC). The current from your batteries needs to pass through an inverter that converts it from Direct Current (DC) to AC.

5. Household Electricity (AC Loads)

Your appliances can now run on energy created by the sun.