A solar system (also called PV system or photovoltaic system) converts sunlight into electrical current with the help of solar cells. Solar systems consist of solar cells, inverters and a substructure with which the solar cells are mounted on the roof surface.
As soon as sunlight hits the solar cells, a direct current is created in the silicone wafers of the cell. The direct current (DC) flows to an inverter that converts it to alternating current (AC) with a voltage of 230 volts.
The electrical energy thus produced is utilized by the consumer where the solar system is installed. Alternatively, power can be fed into the public power grid and sold to the local grid operator in terms of the feed-in-tariff program as mandated by Republic Act 9513 also known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.
Solar installations with a capacity of 100 kWp and below can also participate in the Philippine Net Metering Program wherein excess power generated by the system will be fed into the local distribution utility and the end-user will receive credits to offset his future electricity bills.
