Solar power is an amazing renewable resource that can help power our homes and businesses. However, sometimes solar panels can generate more power than we need.
This energy can be used to power our homes, businesses, and even entire cities!
Although, many people wonder what happens to all of the extra solar power that is generated during the day.
Here, we will explore where all the extra power goes and will go through the process of what happens to it.
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Let’s explore what happens to excess solar power generated
When there is extra solar power, it is usually sent back into the grid and used to power other homes and businesses.
The grid is the network of power lines and equipment that delivers electricity to homes and businesses.
How the extra electrical power is generated?
To understand better what happens to all the extra electrical power generated from the solar panels, first low let’s understand how this power is created.
The photovoltaic cells on solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity.
Sometimes there is more electricity generated than what is needed, and in such cases, this extra electrical power is usually sent back into the grid.
What are the benefits of storing solar energy?
There are many benefits to storing solar energy, some of which include:
- Reduced reliance on the grid– if there is a power outage, the stored solar power can be used as a backup.
- Lower electricity bills– the stored solar power can be used during peak hours when electricity rates are higher.
- Decreased environmental impact– since the stored solar power is renewable, it helps to reduce pollution and reliance on fossil fuels.
- Increased energy security– if there is a natural disaster or another emergency, the stored solar power can be used to keep lights on and essential equipment running.
- Protection from power outages – if severe weather damages power lines, the stored solar power can be used as a backup.
How much electricity do solar panels generate?
Solar panels are constantly generating electricity, even when it’s cloudy!
The average solar panel can generate around 200 watts of power, but it depends on the size and efficiency of the panel.
So, if a 5 kilowatt (kW) solar system is generating more electricity than you are using, the extra power will go back into the grid.
How do I store solar power?
There are several ways to store solar power, including:
- Batteries – Batteries are the most common way to store solar power. They can be used to store excess power generated during the day so that it can be used at night or during a power outage.
- Solar Thermal Storage – Solar thermal storage involves using the sun’s heat to generate electricity. This stored solar power can then be used when needed
- Solar PV with Grid-Tie Inverter – A grid-tie inverter is a device that converts DC electricity into AC electricity. It also can send excess power back into the grid.
- Off-Grid Solar PV System – An off-grid solar PV system is not connected to the grid. The stored solar power is used to power the home or business.
- Hybrid Solar System – A hybrid solar system is a combination of two or more types of solar systems. For example, a grid-tie solar system with battery backup would be considered a hybrid system.
- Fuel Cells – Fuel cells use the chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity. Solar power can be used to split water into parts of hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen can then be stored and used in a fuel cell to generate electricity when needed.
- Flywheels – A flywheel is a mechanical device that stores energy in the form of kinetic energy. Solar power is used to spin the flywheel. When power is needed, the flywheel can be used to generate electricity.
- Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES) – SMES systems use magnets and electric currents to store energy.
- Pumped Hydro Storage – Pumped hydro storage involves using solar power to pump water uphill into a reservoir. When power is needed, the water is released and runs through a turbine to generate electricity.
The majority of solar power has been stored in lithium-ion, lead-acid and flow cells.
The stored solar power can be used at night or during a power outage.
What other storage forms exist for excess solar power?
In some cases, the excess solar power can also be used to heat water or air, which can then be stored in a tank or thermal insulation.
For example, compressed air systems use the sun’s heat to compress air. The compressed air is then stored in an underground tank. When power is needed, compressed air is released and used to generate electricity.
This process is called solar thermal storage and it is a great way to make use of the extra solar power generated during the day.
Solar thermal storage is a great option for those who want to use solar power but do not have the need or space for a battery system.
How does selling excess solar power back to the grid work?
In some cases, you may be able to sell the excess solar power back to the grid.
How can we profit from the excess solar power?
It is interesting how you actually can profit from the excess generated solar power. A form is by installing an instrument that can invoice that credits the solar energy system to the owners for the electricity they add to the grid.
For example, if someone has a solar PV system in their home or their office, it is possible that during the daytime the system will produce more electricity than what is being used by the home.
If so, the extra electricity that has been produced will be sent back to the utility grid and the user is given a credit.
At night or during cloudy days, when the solar PV system is not producing enough electricity to power the home, the grid will provide the needed electricity and the customer will use their credits.
In the end, the goal is to promote renewable energy and help customers save money on their electricity bills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here below, you may find answers to some of the most common frequently asked questions people have about excess solar power generated.
Do all panels have a grid system?
Remember that not all solar panels are connected to the grid.
Solar panels that are not connected to the grid are called off-grid solar panels. Off-grid solar panels are typically used in remote locations where it is not feasible to connect to the grid.
Solar panel systems that are not connected to the grid rely on batteries to store the excess solar power.
In summary, when there is extra solar power generated, it is either sent back into the grid or stored in batteries.
Can you install a grid on your solar panels?
Most solar panels come with the ability to connect to the grid.
If your solar panel system is not connected to the grid, you can install a grid-tie inverter. A grid-tie inverter will allow you to connect your solar panel system to the grid and sell the excess power back to the utility company.
If you live in an area with high electric rates, a grid-tie inverter can be a great way to save money on your electric bill.
The best way to find out if you can install a grid-tie inverter on your solar panel system is to contact a qualified solar installer.
What are the challenges of storing solar energy?
There are also some challenges associated with storing solar energy, such as:
- The need for batteries– batteries are needed to store solar power, and they can be expensive.
- The amount of space needed to store the solar power– batteries can take up a lot of space, and they need to be stored in a cool, dry place.
- The environmental impact of batteries– some types of batteries can be harmful to the environment.
Despite these challenges, storing solar energy is a great way to use the excess solar power generated during the day.
Can you sell the extra generated power?
In some cases, you may be able to sell the extra generated power back to the utility company.
This is called a solar buyback program and it is available in some states.
The amount of money you will receive for the extra solar power will depend on the state you live in and the policies of the utility company.
Solar buyback programs are a great way to offset the cost of your solar panel system and save money on your electric bill.
The best way to find out if there is a solar buyback program in your area is to contact your local utility company.
Which solar panels provide the best storage backup of excess solar power?
The best solar panels for storing excess solar power are typically those that are designed for off-grid systems.
Here are 10 brands that are designed with off-grid systems:
1. REC
2. SolarWorld
3. S-Energy
4. Canadian Solar
5. Jinko Solar
6. Trina Solar
7. Yingli Solar
8. Hanwha Q CELLS9.ReneSola
10. Winaico
Final thoughts
In conclusion, when there is extra solar power generated, it is either sent back into the grid or stored in batteries.
If you live in an area with high electric rates, a grid-tie inverter can be a great way to save money on your electric bill.
Despite the challenges associated with storing solar energy, it is a great way to use the excess solar power generated during the day.
The best way to use excess solar power is to find a way that will save you money on your electric bill.
And, remember that when you install a solar panel system, you’re not just generating power for yourself. You’re helping to power the electric grid and making a difference in the environment.
