AC/DC Solutions
Clean, renewable and secure energy solutions for your home, business and community.
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Solar Power
Clean, renewable energy independence.
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Manage energy more effectively.
Energy Efficiency
A recommended prerequisite.
Maintenance & Repair
Protect your investment.
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Photovoltaic (PV) arrays produce direct currect (DC) by converting sunlight to electricity.
The inverter converts DC electricity to alternative current (AC) electricity.
The main utility panel, aka the breaker box, is where the AC electricity produced by the inverter flows.
The utility meter measures the amount of electricity delivered from/to the grid.
The service line establishes the connection between the building and the grid (utility company).
The AC electricity that flows out of the main utility panel (see item C above) is sent through branch circuits to active loads, such as appliances and lights.
Solar Power – Explained
This is a diagram of a simplified batteryless grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) array system. Systems such as this usually consist of several interconnected PV modules [A]. PV modules convert sunlight to direct current (DC) electricity; it flows through wires to an inverter [B] that converts DC electricity to alternating current (AC) electricity. The inverter sends the AC electricity to the main utility panel [C], aka breaker box. From here, electricity flows through wires in a building to active loads; that is to electrical devices that are operating at the time. Each circuit is referred to as a branch circuit [F]. If the PV system is producing more electricity than is needed to meet these demands—which is often the case on sunny days—the excess automatically flows into the grid through the service line [E]. We say that it is “backfed” into the local utility network. Electricity backfed into the utility network is measured by a utility meter [D]. The meter measures the amount of electricity delivered to the grid and the amount delivered to a building from the grid when the PV modules are not producing electricity.
To learn more about Solar Power, see this Solar Innovation Infographic, courtesy of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
3 Simple Steps to Feel Good About Your Decision
1. Get an Evaluation
You tell us about your specific needs and long-term goals.
2. Review Options
You select the best option that matches your needs.
3. Relax
You relax knowing you have made an informed decision.
Solar Power FAQs
Solar power can appear to be somewhat mysterious and even confusing. Here, we offer answers to some of the questions we are often asked about solar power. Is there anything else you want to know about solar power? Please let us know how we can help by completing the short contact form below and submitting your inquiry.
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Why do I need an energy efficiency assessment?
We recommend an energy efficiency assessment to identify areas of your property that are wasting or consuming excessive energy. When we do the assessment, our trained Energy Adviser will examine all aspects of your property to ensure everything is functioning properly and will discuss ways to make it more efficient and comfortable.
Why do an energy efficiency assessment before solar?
The size of the solar system we will design for your property, and therefore the cost, will depend on the amount of energy that is needed to maintain the level of comfort you are accustomed to. If you implement the energy efficient recommendations of the energy assessment, you will reduce your consumption. With less energy required for your property, we can design a smaller size solar system that will end up costing you less.
Why should I get a solar power system?
There are several benefits of solar power. When you go solar, you can: (1) save money on your electric bill, (2) help reduce air pollution and the health problems that result from it, (3) increase your property value, and if you choose the right energy solution, (4) reduce or eliminate your reliance on the unpredictable delivery of power from the electric grid to your property under certain weather conditions.
How does a solar PV system work?
Solar photovoltaic (PV) modules convert sunlight to produce direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter converts the DC electricity to AC electricity to use in your property or send back to the electric grid (utility company).
Are there any financing options?
You have three purchase options: (1) purchase your system in cash, (2) AC/DC Solutions can finance your solar system. Also, there are solar rebates and incentives, depending on where you live, that can reduce the cost of your solar power system. There is the federal investment tax credit (ITC), additional tax credits offered by some states, and cash rebates or other incentives offered by certain municipalities and utilities.
Why should I go solar NOW?
Three main reasons to go solar now:
- The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) increased the federal tax credit to 30% for homeowners.
- Electricity prices in Texas have been rising 2-6% every year. Producing your own electricity gives you control over how much you pay.
- $1 saved today is worth more than $1 tomorrow. With inflation, the purchasing power declines over time.