How it Works

                    

Solar Thermal Capturing and Storing the sun’s energy with solar heating systems is simple. Solar collectors, covered by tempered glass, trap the sun’s heat in the same way a closed car is heated when it sits in the sun. The collectors work effectively all year long. The system switches on when the collector is hotter than the solar storage tank. Fluid is heated as it is pumped through copper tubes in the collector. A heat exchanger transfers this heat to the storage tank. Solar heated water in the storage tank can be used immediately or later for daily hot water needs. Solar systems work automatically with existing heating equipment. A furnace coil allows solar to provide warm air heat as well as hot water. Solar can also heat pools, hot tubs and radiant floors. The result is that you dramatically reduce your use of gas or electricity, instead generating your hot water with your own solar energy. Solar thermal systems are very efficient and dependable. Click here for a printable fact sheet.

Photovoltaic (PV) Sunlight hits the solar electric (photovoltaic) panels and causes the release of electrons, creating DC electricity. An inverter converts DC electricity into AC electricity so that it can be used in your home or business, or sold to “The Power Grid” (electric company). The AC electricity is fed into a separate service panel. In the state of North Carolina, most solar electricity generated is sold to “The Power Grid” (the electric company) and you continue to purchase electricity from the electric company. The result is that you sell electricity you produce at a profit and effectively reduce your electric bill while maintaining consistent, dependable power. Solar systems produce best during peak demand periods at mid-day. Click here for a printable fact sheet.