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A Solar-Powered Victorian

By Jackie Craven, About.com

7 of 10

From Sun Power to Household Power

Two inverters in the basement convert the electricity.

Two inverters in the basement convert the electricity produced by the solar panels from DC to alternating current (AC).

Photo © Jackie Craven
In the basement of Spring Lake Inn, two inverters transform the DC power generated by the solar panels into standard AC electricity for household use.

The electricity produced in this way is absolutely free. It does not cause pollution and cannot contribute to smog, acid rain, or global warming. The energy is clean, silent, and unlimited.

Now, mind you, photovoltaic panels can't collect energy when the sun isn't shining. So, what happens at night?

Next: An Electric Meter That Spins Backwards >

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