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Photovoltaic Panels
A solar electric system, also known as a photovoltaic or PV system, produces power by converting the sun’s light
energy into a Direct Current (DC). The systems’ modules are silent and have no moving parts. Depending on the
type of panel used, the system will require approximately 100 square feet of roof space per kilowatt (kW) of
Alternating Current (AC) output, or 5.8 kWh each day.
(Click here to learn more about Photovoltaic Panels)
(Click here to learn more about Photovoltaic Panels)
Solar Inverters
Power from the solar array is conditioned by an inverter to match the AC used within our homes and businesses.
The system does not require any battery storage when it is interconnected with the utility grid. However, with
a grid-connected system, if there is any interruption to the grid, the system will not provide any power. In
other words, when the utility’s grid power is off, your solar system will shut off as well. RSSE can install
both grid-tie and off-grid battery backup systems that can supply reliable power in the event of a power outage.
Monitoring systems are also available to track system production, as well as alert both RSSE and the customer
if the system is not functioning properly and/or needs repair.
(Click here to learn more about Solar Inverters)
(Click here to learn more about Solar Inverters)
Energy Savings
A solar electric system provides monthly savings on your electric bill by replacing some or all of your utility-purchased
kilowatt hours (kWh) with solar-generated electricity. These savings are contingent on the size of the installed system,
as well as the location and price of electricity. Savings will be realized every month over the life of the equipment.
Remember, savings will be greater as utility costs rise, and by using a solar electric system, you are hedging against
electricity rate increases.
- Sun Rays
- PV panels convert sunlight into electricity
- Inverter converts solar DC electricity to household AC electricity
- Existing electrical system
- Meter measures bidirectional kilowatt hour flow
- Utility grid
How Net Metering Works
A solar electric system will change the dynamics of your relationship with the utility company. As a clean energy producer, you can "Net Meter" your electricity. In other words, if your solar system produces more energy than you are using at that moment in time, your meter will spin backwards, thereby crediting your account at the full retail rate. Conversely, when your energy needs exceed the system’s output, your meter spins forward.
As a result, your electric meter will measure the "net" difference and the utility company will then bill you for this amount.
Note: In June 2001, Hawai‘i became the 35th state to adopt a Net Energy Metering Law (NEM). From 2001-2009, 581 NEM systems
were installed on the Island of Maui, producing approximately 2 percent of the island’s electrical generation. Currently,
residents can net meter systems up to 100 kilowatts. A larger system can be installed; however, the customer will not be
credited for energy that is not used on site.
Note: There is no charge from the utility company to become a net-metered customer.
More information on Net Metering from MECO