Updated September 27, 2026.
A solar energy system turns sunlight into electricity your property can use. Panels generate power; separate equipment converts, distributes, measures, and—if included—stores that energy.
1. Panels generate DC electricity
Photovoltaic cells convert sunlight into direct-current (DC) electricity. Solar panels do not store that electricity. Output varies with sunlight, shading, panel orientation, temperature, and other site conditions.
2. An inverter supplies usable AC power
An inverter converts the panels’ DC output into alternating current (AC) for the building’s electrical system. Depending on the design, conversion may use a central or string inverter, or microinverters at the panels. Learn more from the U.S. Department of Energy’s inverter guide.
3. The building uses available solar production
Solar can offset some of the electricity your home or business would otherwise draw from the grid. When demand exceeds available solar production, a grid-connected property normally draws the balance from the utility, unless a battery or another approved source is supplying it.
4. Excess generation follows the system design
Surplus electricity may charge a compatible battery, export to the grid under the approved interconnection arrangement, or be limited by system controls. Export compensation depends on the utility and applicable program. Generating electricity does not automatically qualify a project for every rebate or tax credit.
5. Batteries provide separate storage
A battery stores energy for later use. Its usable capacity and power rating determine different aspects of performance: how much energy is available and how quickly it can be delivered. The system’s controls determine charging, discharging, and reserve settings.
Will solar work during an outage?
Most conventional grid-connected solar systems shut down when the grid fails. Supplying loads during an outage requires equipment specifically designed for backup and safe isolation from the utility. Solar panels alone do not guarantee backup power.
Start with your property and priorities
BD Electrical & Solar reviews your electrical system, consumption, roof or site conditions, and future loads before recommending a design. A proposal should explain expected production, costs, utility assumptions, and any individually verified incentives without promising free electricity or guaranteed savings.
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