How solar works
How home solar works, in plain terms.
Understanding the basics makes it easier to decide what's right for your home. Here's how the pieces fit together.
The energy flow
From sunlight to your outlets.
- 01
Solar panels
Panels on your roof capture sunlight and produce direct-current (DC) electricity.
- 02
Inverter
The inverter converts DC into the alternating-current (AC) electricity your home uses.
- 03
Household consumption
Your home uses solar power first, as it's produced.
- 04
Battery storage (optional)
Extra energy can charge a battery for evening use or backup.
- 05
Grid connection
You stay connected to the utility, drawing power when you need more and, under applicable program rules, receiving credit for excess.
Electricity production
What affects how much power you produce.
- Roof direction and pitch
- Shading from trees or buildings
- Available roof space
- Season and weather
- Equipment selection
Installation and inspection
Installed, inspected, then switched on.
After installation, your system is inspected and the utility approves the connection. Only then is it turned on to start producing power for your home.
- 1
Share your property and energy information
Use our short assessment to tell us about your home, roof and electricity bill.
- 2
APEX reviews your property's solar potential
We look at your roof, orientation, shading and energy use.
- 3
Discuss system and payment options
We walk you through solar, battery and purchase or leasing options that fit.
- 4
Review the proposed installation
You see the proposed design and details before anything is decided.
- 5
Move forward if it's right for you
If you decide to go ahead, our in-house team handles the installation.
Let's Find Out What Solar Could Do for Your Home.
Answer a few quick questions about your property and energy use. We'll review it and talk through your options — free and with no obligation.