How Solar Arrays Work on Your Columbia, SC Home

The Southeastern U.S. is ideal for solar power, and South Carolina is no exception. With sunny skies year-round, South Carolina homeowners can greatly reap the benefits of solar power. With a solar array at your home, you can potentially lower your electric bills and become less dependent on grid electricity.

Wondering what a solar array is and how it works? You’re not alone! Our solar experts are here to explain it all.

What is a Solar Array?

Solar panels are made up of solar cells. A solar array is a collection of solar panels that work together to generate electricity. You may hear the term used to refer to large solar farms, but it can be used to describe any collection of solar panels, whether it’s 2 panels or 200.

Think of them as building blocks: solar cells make up solar panels, and solar panels make up solar arrays. 

How Does a Solar Array Work?

Solar panels convert photons (light particles) into electricity. When sunlight hits the solar cell, photons and electrons interact to generate DC (direct current) electricity. The current then flows through an inverter and is converted into usable AC (alternating current) electricity for your home. 

If excess power is generated, you can store the excess unused energy in a solar battery, such as a Pink Energy PWRcell, or sell the energy back to the grid via net metering. Storing the remaining energy in a solar battery provides backup power during outages or storms where your panels can’t generate enough electricity to power your home.

Benefits of Solar Panels in South Carolina

Going solar has no shortage of potential benefits, including:

• Less dependence on the grid
• Lower electric bills
• Battery provides backup power in inclement weather
• Increased home value
• Reduced number of greenhouse gases your home releases into the atmosphere

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need on My Columbia, SC Home?

The number of panels you need in your solar array depends largely on your home’s energy usage. For example, a family of four likely will need more solar panels in their array than a couple with no children.

The number of panels you need also will depend on how the panels are positioned. If your panels face east or west, you likely will need more panels than if you have them installed facing south. Panels that face east or west will get varying degrees of sun throughout the day, while panels positioned to face due south will get more consistent sun exposure. During your consultation, your Pink Energy consultant will determine the most beneficial position for your solar array. 

Add Solar Today!

If you’re ready to move toward energy independence and say goodbye to high electric bills, it’s time to go solar. Get started by requesting more information from one of our solar experts!