How Solar Works

Plain-English explainers on panels, inverters, and how production actually adds up. Below are the Ballpark Lab guides in this topic — each one pairs plain-English answers with the calculator that gives you the number.

How it works

Solar System Components: Essential vs. Optional in 2026

Every home solar system needs panels, an inverter, racking, wiring, a meter, monitoring, and permits. Here's what's truly essential vs. optional add-ons in 2026.

Updated June 30, 2026

How it works

How Do Solar Panels Work? From Sunlight to Home Electricity

Solar panels turn sunlight into DC electricity via the photovoltaic effect, then an inverter makes AC for your home. Here's how every part works, step by step.

Updated June 30, 2026