The Basics: What is Solar Power?

Solar power is the wave of the future. And having access to it is a sure way to not only create a cleaner and greener future but save you money and keep you less reliant on energy companies.

So, are you wondering what solar power is? 

There’s much information out there, but it’s simple and very effective energy that is literally out your front door. It’s something all people should consider for their homes and businesses because it’s free and clean.

Let’s go over the basics to have a clearer idea of what it is, how it works, and how it’s beneficial for you!

What is solar power?

Solar power, or solar energy, is sunlight converted into electrical energy through solar panels or mirrors that concentrate solar radiation. Solar energy is the light and heat that comes directly from the sun. This energy can be used to generate electricity or be stored in batteries or thermal storage. Since it comes directly from the sun, solar power is natural, accessible, and the most efficient and economical way to obtain energy. Solar power is sun power!

How does it work?

When sunlight hits a solar panel, it activates the panel. The panels, or the cells in the panel, create an electrical current, which is converted into energy. This energy enters your home and powers it, giving you all you need to run your home correctly. A meter measures usage and knows how much you have and how much you’re using. And the cycle is repeated continuously. At night, when the sun is gone, you still have energy because of the extra electricity you have sent back to the utility company from that day’s sun exposure. If you have a storage battery, whichever circuits are connected to the battery, will pull from that storage supply. This easily carries you through the night until the sun is back out again (even if cloudy, your panels still can get enough sunlight to generate energy for usage and storage).

How can this help me?

The most significant benefit you’ll see with solar is your cost savings. While there is little to no upfront cost to getting solar, the end savings (for decades!) outweigh any cost. Because it isn’t just a one-time saving, but continual protection for as long as you’re in the home or business with solar panels, you save monthly on your energy bills. In some cases, you can even sell back your energy to your energy company. As we face climate change and look for alternative energy sources, the most considerable impact is knowing that you’re going green, helping to provide a clean future for others, and reducing your carbon footprint.

Interested in more? With Bright Planet Consulting, it’s easy to go solar in six simple steps. We look at your home or business and:

1. Analyze your home’s solar potential and current electricity usage.
2. Determine the most appropriate solar panel technology for your home.
3. Calculate your average, projected monthly, and annual utility bill savings.
4. Present you with a detailed, no-obligation proposal – for your approval.
5. Help you qualify for all relevant financing, incentives, and permits.
6. Install your entire system – including the panels, inverter, and electrical box.

Going solar is easy, cost-saving, and energy-efficient. Take back your power today and be forever free from high-priced utility rates. Visit our website for more information, or call Paul for more information and answers to all of your questions at (408) 357-2733.

Harnessing and utilizing natural, clean, free energy is a simple and smart way to live, and it’s a simple process that will benefit you and everyone around you. We look forward to working with you for a brighter, cleaner future!