What is a common output voltage for a solar array before conversion by inverters?

Solar arrays generate electricity through photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight directly into electrical energy. The nature of this energy is direct current (DC). This is a fundamental characteristic of how solar panels operate; they generate direct current that flows in one direction, as opposed to alternating current (AC), which changes direction periodically and is what is primarily used in most households and electrical grids.

Before this DC output can be utilized effectively in homes or synced with the electrical grid, it must typically be converted to AC by an inverter. However, the common output voltage from the solar array right at the point of collection—before any conversion—remains in the form of DC. This output voltage can vary depending on the configuration and the number of solar cells in the array but is typically expressed as DC.

Understanding the nature of the output from solar arrays is critical for both installation and application in solar energy systems, influencing the choices made regarding inverters and electrical setups.