How Solar Photovoltaic Modules (Panels) work:
      Photovoltaic cells are made of very pure semiconductor grade silicon, the most common element in the Earth's crust, similar to that used in computer chips. Electricity is produced as photons of sunlight penetrate the silicon, bumping electrons into a flow. PV cells are connected together to make a module. Modules are the building blocks connected together to make an array. The photovoltaic effect produces DC (Direct Current) electricity. This DC power is converted to AC (Alternating Current) electricity to match the American standards of AC frequency and voltage. The conversion is made by an important system component called the inverter. The array and inverter are engineered for efficiency and compatibility.

Utility Interactive (Grid Connected, Tied) Photovoltaic:
      A Utility Interactive, or grid-tied, PV system has the photovoltaic system connected and acting in parallel with the electric grid. As power is produced it is used primarily for loads within your building. If more power is produced than needed in-house, the remainder is automatically exported through your billing or revenue meter to the electric grid. In effect, the grid acts as your storage medium and your revenue meter tallies the 'net metering' exchange. The inverter constantly monitors grid power quality to provide a seamless generation match. If there is a power outage the PV system will automatically shut down. This prevents a small PV system from trying to power the neighbourhood, but more importantly it ensures the safety of utility personnel working on downed lines. Upon stable restoration of grid power, the PV system will automatically re-connect.

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