Solar panels use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into direct-current (DC) electricity. An inverter changes this into alternating-current (AC) electricity that your home can use to run appliances. If your system produces more power than you need, the excess may be stored in a battery or exported to the electricity grid, usually under a feed-in tariff set by your retailer. When solar generation is low, such as at night, your home can draw electricity from a battery or the grid. A qualified installer can help size a system for your household and explain the available options.