How does a solar system work?

Turning sunlight into usable electricity

A solar panel begins with a solar cell, which is a semiconductor that is capable of converting solar energy (from sunlight) into solar power (electricity). Multiple solar cells are assembled and connected in a series or parallel to make a solar panel.

The electricity that is produced is sent to an inverter, where the direct current (DC) power created within the solar panels is converted into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is then used to power your home or business.

The grid-connected solar power system

The power generated from the solar energy system can be fed into the electrical grid. This is known as a grid-connected solar power system and it provides a green contribution to public utilities.

This diagram helps illustrate how a grid-connected solar power system works:

Harnessing the Sun's energy and transferring it in to electricity

Solely solar powered

When connecting to the grid isn't feasible, there are also ways to deploy solar panels to create a dedicated supply of solar energy. These types of systems are used primarily for leisure (homes in geographically isolated areas, mobile homes and gardens), but more increasingly they are also being used for things such as parking lot structures and street lighting, parking meters and street signs. Other major users include developing countries with weak energy infrastructures.


BP Alternative Energy has begun the process of winding down its solar operations and will focus on wind, biofuels, and other alternative energy businesses that are material, scalable, and suited to BP's core capabilities. This website will remain active until March 31, 2012.

All valid warranty claims will continue to be honored. For warranty and recycling support, please contact your installer. In the event that your installer cannot be contacted, please call 1-866-BP-SOLAR.

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