How Rooftop Solar Panels Work: A Beginner’s Guide
As electricity bills continue to rise and environmental awareness grows, more homeowners and businesses are turning to rooftop solar panels. But how do they actually work? If you’re just getting started with solar energy, this beginner-friendly guide will break down everything you need to know — from sunlight to savings.
☀️ What Are Rooftop Solar Panels?
Rooftop solar panels are solar photovoltaic (PV) systems installed on the roof of a building. These panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity using photovoltaic cells.
They are designed to:
- Reduce your electricity bills
- Provide backup power (with batteries)
- Lower your carbon footprint
- Offer long-term financial benefits
⚙️ How Do Rooftop Solar Panels Work?
Let’s break it down step-by-step:
1. Sunlight Hits the Solar Panels
Each panel is made of solar cells (usually silicon) that absorb sunlight. When sunlight (photons) strikes the cells, it knocks electrons loose, generating a flow of electricity — this is called Direct Current (DC).
2. Inverter Converts DC to AC
The electricity from solar panels is in DC form. But most home appliances run on Alternating Current (AC).
This is where a solar inverter comes in — it converts DC into usable AC electricity.
There are different types of inverters:
- String Inverters
- Microinverters
- Hybrid Inverters (used with battery storage)
3. Powering Your Home
Once converted, the AC electricity powers your lights, fans, appliances, and more. If the solar system generates more energy than needed, it either:
- Charges a battery system, or
- Is sent back to the grid (if you have a grid-connected system)
4. Net Metering (Optional)
If you’re connected to the electricity grid, net metering tracks how much extra power you supply to the grid. You receive credits for this, which can be used to offset future electricity bills.
🏠 Types of Rooftop Solar Systems
1. On-Grid (Grid-Tied) System
- Connected to the local electricity grid
- No batteries required
- Benefits from net metering
2. Off-Grid System
- Not connected to the grid
- Uses battery storage
- Ideal for remote areas
3. Hybrid System
- Combination of on-grid and off-grid
- Connected to the grid but includes batteries for backup
🔋 Components of a Rooftop Solar System
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Solar Panels | Capture sunlight and produce DC electricity |
| Inverter | Converts DC to AC |
| Mounting Structure | Holds panels securely on your rooftop |
| Battery (Optional) | Stores excess energy for night or outages |
| Net Meter | Measures energy used vs. supplied to the grid |
| Cables & Wiring | Connect and route electricity safely |
📈 Benefits of Rooftop Solar Panels
- ✅ Reduce Electricity Bills
- ✅ Low Maintenance
- ✅ Eco-Friendly & Renewable
- ✅ Increases Property Value
- ✅ Government Subsidies & Incentives
- ✅ Energy Independence
💡 Is Your Roof Suitable for Solar?
Before installing, check for:
- Sunlight exposure (ideally south-facing roof in India)
- Shading from trees or buildings
- Roof size and strength
- Local building regulations or permissions
Pro tip: Get a solar assessment from professionals like Bhandari Solar to evaluate feasibility and cost.
💰 Cost & Subsidy (India 2025)
| System Size | Average Cost (Post-Subsidy) | Monthly Savings |
|---|---|---|
| 1 kW | ₹50,000 – ₹65,000 | ₹800 – ₹1,200 |
| 3 kW | ₹1.5 Lakh – ₹1.8 Lakh | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 |
| 5 kW | ₹2.5 Lakh – ₹3.2 Lakh | ₹4,000 – ₹5,500 |
Government Subsidy (2025):
Up to ₹78,000 for residential users under PM Surya Ghar Yojana (varies by state and size).
🧼 Maintenance Tips
- Clean panels every 15–30 days (avoid harsh chemicals)
- Check inverter readings regularly
- Ensure no shading or debris
- Annual inspection by professionals
📞 Want to Go Solar?
If you’re ready to reduce your energy costs and switch to a cleaner power source, rooftop solar is a smart investment. Bhandari Solar, with offices in Indore and Khargone, offers:
- Free site assessment
- Customized solar plans
- Hassle-free installation
- After-sales support
🔚 Final Thoughts
Rooftop solar panels are simple in concept but powerful in impact. Whether you’re looking to save money, protect the environment, or gain energy independence, understanding how solar works is the first step.
Your roof has the power — let it work for you. Go solar today!
✅ FAQs
Q1. Do rooftop solar panels work during cloudy weather?
Yes, but with reduced efficiency. They still generate power from diffused sunlight.
Q2. Can I run ACs and refrigerators on solar power?
Absolutely, if your system is sized correctly.
Q3. How long do solar panels last?
Most panels last 25+ years with minimal maintenance.
Q4. Is battery storage necessary?
Not for on-grid systems. But batteries help with power backup during outages.
Q5. How much space is required for installation?
Roughly 80-100 sq. ft per kW.