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Education5 February 20265 min

How Do Solar Panels Work? A Simple Explanation

How Do Solar Panels Work? A Simple Explanation

How Solar Panels Turn Sunlight Into Electricity

Solar technology might seem complex, but the basic principle is surprisingly simple.

The Simple Version

  • 1Sunlight hits solar panels — on your roof
  • 2Panels convert light into DC electricity — using photovoltaic cells
  • 3Inverter converts DC to AC electricity — (what your home uses)
  • 4Your home uses the electricity — directly
  • 5Excess goes to TNB grid — via NEM (you earn credits)

    • A Bit More Detail

    Photovoltaic Effect:

    Solar panels are made of silicon cells. When photons (light particles) from the sun hit these cells, they knock electrons loose from atoms. This movement of electrons creates an electrical current — DC (direct current) electricity.

    The Inverter:

    Your home appliances run on AC (alternating current). The inverter is the brain of the system — it converts DC from the panels to AC for your home. Modern inverters also monitor system performance and communicate with your monitoring app.

    Net Metering:

    A bi-directional meter tracks electricity flowing in both directions. When your panels produce more than you use, excess flows to the TNB grid (your meter spins backwards). At night, you draw from the grid as usual.

    Key Components of a Solar System

  • 1Solar Panels — Convert sunlight to DC electricity
  • 2Inverter — Converts DC to AC electricity
  • 3Mounting System — Secures panels to your roof
  • 4Bi-directional Meter — Tracks energy in and out (for NEM)
  • 5Monitoring System — App to track production and savings
  • 6Battery — (optional) — Stores energy for backup/night use

    • How Much Electricity Can Panels Produce?

    In Malaysia, a 1kW solar panel system produces approximately 3.5-4.5 kWh of electricity per day. So an 8kW system produces about 28-36 kWh daily — enough to power most semi-detached homes.

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