How Solar Works

A Beginner's Guide to Solar Energy

While solar PV isn’t rocket science, there’s certainly more to it than meets the eye. We take great pride in educating our customers on all aspects of their investment, including the technology involved that turns sunlight into savings.
How Solar Works

Explainer

What is Solar Energy?

The original solar panel, and source of virtually all organic energy in the world, are plants. And like plants, in the solar PV process, photons from the sun are used to “excite” electrons that are then whisked away to either a battery or a power load.

How Solar Works

Infographic

How Does Solar Work?

Once solar energy has been converted to electrical energy, there are just a few more steps required before you can use that power. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3… 4!

  • 1. Solar Panel

    The silicon cells convert light energy into electric power through the photovoltaic (PV) effect.

  • 2. Inverter

    Direct Current (DC) generated by the solar panels is run through an inverter, which converts it to the Alternating Current (AC) used in your home.

  • 3. Electric Panel

    The AC power is run to the electrical panel, where it can be distributed throughout your household.

  • 4. Utility Meter

    Any excess energy not used on your property is sent to your meter, which generates credits on your monthly power bill.

Solar Economics

How Much Does A Solar System Cost?

With Solar Costs at an All-Time Low, There’s Never Been A Better Time To Invest. We can help you install a system that generates up to 100% of your energy usage!
 
Experts at EVOLVsolar will help you select the right system size and technology for your property, and determine if you’re eligible for provincial or federal subsidies to help offset costs of your install.
System Size Space (sqft) Annual Output (kWh)* Ballpark Cost** 30 Year Savings
5 kW
375
5,000 to 7,000
$12,000 to $16,000
$36,000 to $51,000
10 kW
750
10,000 to 14,000
$20,000 to $30,000
$73,000 to $102,000
20 kW
1,500
20,000 to 28,000
$36,000 to $56,000
$146,000 to $204,000
40 kW
3000
40,000 to 56,000
$68,000 to $108,000
$290,000 to $409,000

*Electricity production varies with roof angle, technology selected, shading, etc.

**System costs vary depending on the technology selected, roof vs ground mount, rebates and other factors.

Ready to Own Your Power?

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