Back to top FREE CONSULTATION: (800) 400-2852 Get a Quote SOLAR Solar’s simplicity is part of its attraction. Solar energy systems are easy to install and easy to maintain. And solar’s ability to save you money is straightforward. Solar adoption in California » How solar technology works » Solar energy system warranties » The solar installation process » Incentives for going solar » Options for getting started » How Solar PV Technology Works Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has been in use since the 1950s, when Bell Labs developed a silicon cell that could capture enough solar energy to run electrical equipment. Modern solar energy systems harness this technology to convert sunlight into electricity that can power our homes, businesses and more. Solar panels (also called “modules”) are made up of multiple cells on a rectangular panel. These cells are made from semiconducting material, usually silicon. When sunlight hits a solar panel, the cells in the panel absorb photons from the sun and convert them into electrons, which flow through the cell as electrical current. That current then flows from the cells to inverters under the panels which convert the energy from direct-current (DC) electricity into alternating-current (AC) electricity. The electricity flows through your electric panel and into your home or business for use as needed. When you make more solar electricity than you need at the time, the extra electricity flows into the grid, first being measured by the electric meter on the side of your house. The electricity then flows into the utility grid for use by others. Electricity from the utility still flows from the grid into your home when needed to supplement your solar electricity. Power your life with solar, energy storage and roofing from Citadel. Get a Quote HOMEOWNERS Solar Solar Maintenance Energy Storage Roofing Generators Customer Stories FAQs BUSINESSES Solar Solar Maintenance Energy Storage Roofing Portfolio FAQs HOMEBUILDERS SERVICE AREAS Northern California Vacaville 4980 Allison Parkway Vacaville, CA 95688 (707) 446-5500 Sacramento 830 Riverside Pkwy, Suite 20 West Sacramento CA 95605 (916) 474-4704 Davis 1615 5th Street, Suite D-1 Davis, CA 95616 (530) 746-5530 Santa Rosa 4165 Santa Rosa Ave Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (707) 610-0650 SERVICE AREAS Central California Fresno 4025 W. Ashcroft Avenue Fresno, CA 93722 (559) 234-3097 Southern California Santa Clarita 21616 Golden Triangle Road Santa Clarita, CA 91350 (661) 295-6848 ABOUT US The Citadel Way Our Team Testimonials & Reviews Referral Program Community Involvement Careers LEARN Solar Energy Storage Roofing Financing News Blog Contact Us OTHER Request a Quote Privacy Policy Home © 2021 CITADEL ROOFING & SOLAR – CSLB LICENSE 647149 This website uses cookies for advertising and analytics purposes as described in our cookie policy. For more information and to set preferences, please click here. By continuing to browse this website, you accept our use of cookies.