How does PV work
The principle two components are the panels themselves and the inverter. The solar panels generate the electricity and the inverter converts the electricity from DC (Direct Current) to AC (Alternating current), which is the type of electricity used in homes and businesses.
The wires are then connected to an inverter that converts the DC power from the panels to AC power, used in homes and businesses. If possible the inverter will be installed in the roof space but it can be in installed in almost any convenient location. In principle, the closer the inverter is to the panels, the better.
The whole system is wired into your fuse board next to the electricity meter. So when the panels produce electricity you either use the electricity yourself or it is fed back into the grid. The more you produce the more you save and the more you are paid from the Feed-In tariff.
How does the Feed-In tariff work? A meter is supplied that measures the amount of electricity you produce. The meter reading is sent to your electricity provider who will send you a cheque based on the Feed-In Tariff set at the time of installation.