How Solar Works
![Graphic showing sunlight hitting solar panels on the roof of a home](https://mgr.trinasolar.com/sites/default/files/Working%20principle-01.jpg)
1. Solar PV panels capture sunlight, causing electrons in the panel’s silicon cells to release energy that becomes direct current (DC) electricity.
![Graphic showing sunlight hitting solar panels on the roof of a home and inverter converting to AC power](https://mgr.trinasolar.com/sites/default/files/Working%20principle-02.jpg)
2. An inverter converts the DC into alternating current (AC) electricity, making it useable for homes and businesses.
![Graphic showing sunlight hitting solar panels on the roof of a home and battery storing energy for use in home and sending to power line](https://mgr.trinasolar.com/sites/default/files/Working%20principle-03.jpg)
3. Excess electricity can be stored in a battery or fed back into the power grid.
![Graphic showing sunlight hitting solar panels on the roof of a home and power line providing additional power to home](https://mgr.trinasolar.com/sites/default/files/Working%20principle-04.jpg)
4. Additional electricity can be pulled from the grid if you need more power than your solar panels can generate.
![Monocrystalline solar panel](https://mgr.trinasolar.com/sites/default/files/How-it-works_004.jpg)
Monocrystalline
Monocrystalline solar panels have a higher efficiency rate in generating electricity from light and are a more space-efficient solution. Durable, long living and aesthetically pleasing, these cells are the ideal solution for residential and small commercial rooftop installations.
![Multicrystalline solar panel](https://mgr.trinasolar.com/sites/default/files/How-it-works_005.jpg)
Multicrystalline
Multicrystalline solar panels are simpler to produce and offer the most cost-efficient and versatile option. This type of panel is available in a range of sizes and colors, suitable for both residential and larger-scale installations as well as on and off-grid application.