Solar Power Systems Solar power systems turn sunlight into electricity. Silicon wafers capture photons from sunlight, turn them into DC power which is then transformed into 120 volt AC power and connected to your existing electrical system -- as well as the local electrical grid. When the sun shines, you can generate more power than you consume (your meter will really spin backwards). At night you'll draw on utility company power, essentially using the electrical grid as a giant storage battery.             Solar Power Systems are also called: Solar Energy Systems Solar Electric Systems Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Which are not to be confused with solar thermal, which is a different type of solar technology for heating water with the power of the sun. Grid Tied - Solar Power Connected to the Local Utility - This is the most popular system option, providing the best combination of low initial price, high output and low maintenance operation. Solar Power System Components - Check this section for more information about the major and minor components that are necessary for a well-designed solar energy system. Web-Based Monitoring and Notification - Akeena Solar pioneered the concept of providing a web-based link to your system. This link allows you to monitor the performance of your system from any web browser, including portable devices. Key Success Factors  - We've learned a lot about what makes a successful system -- and a happy solar electric power customer. For Architects - We've assembled some useful design and sizing information that will be helpful during the design phase of your solar electric project. Operation and Maintenance - Your solar energy system is installed, now what? Please note that for safety reasons most grid-tied inverters are designed to shutdown completely if there is a power failure. These systems cannot provide power from the solar power array alone if the utility power is interrupted. If you need power during a blackout then you must include a generator with your system. Backup power for home or business: Please refer to the following sections for more information. Solar Power Systems with Battery Storage  - Battery backup capabilities cannot simply be added to any system; a special inverter and additional control circuitry is needed. Solar Power Systems with Generator Power - If you expect extended power outages, or just want very inexpensive backup capabilities, a generator is your best option.