What is a Photovoltaic (PV) System? The major component of a PV system is the photovoltaic solar panel, hence the acronym PV. Any numbers of solar panels are connected together to complete a solar array. The solar array can have varying output wattage depending on the size and output of each panel, and the number of panels used in the array. All of these variables can be customized to meet the homeowner’s specific needs, taking in to consideration his or her consumption needs, the percentage of the utility bill they want to replace and the amount of southern exposed roof space or other suitable area available. In order to make the DC power produced by the PV array usable in your home, a device called an inverter is required to convert the DC (direct current) to AC (alternating current) which is used by all the appliances and lighting in your home now. The Inverter also ties your system to the utility company, and regulates when and how power is drawn from or sold back to the utility grid. In some cases homeowners use DC lighting fixtures and buy new DC powered appliances, but this is not usually practical for the average homeowner. Inverters are one of the most expensive components of the system and have a predetermined capacity, so the PV system must be designed with this in mind to create the most economical investment.