Solar Classroom
If you want to learn more about how solar photovoltaic (PV) projects operate, this is a good place to start!
Panel Composition
Solar panels are composed of silicon solar cells confined between glass with a metal frame. The silicon, glass, and metal framing used to manufacture solar panels are non-toxic. The interior components of solar panels are entirely solid and made primarily from silicon and metal so there are no liquids or gases that risk polluting the environment.
Solar PV is a technology used to convert sunlight to electricity. Solar panels will be used and designed to achieve optimal energy production on the Horizon Solar Project. Several solar cells are electrically connected and mounted in a support structure or frame is called a photovoltaic (PV) module. Photovoltaic modules and arrays produce direct-current (DC) electricity.
Inverters convert the direct current (DC) electricity from the solar panel into alternating current (AC) electricity, so it can be added to the utility grid system.
The electricity generated will be collected on-site using underground cables to the project substation. The project substation will aggregate the energy so it can be fed onto the grid and includes a transformer that converts – or “steps up” – the electricity to the same voltage carried by the grid transmission lines.
Land Stewardship
Horizon Solar will maintain and protect the project area during the operating term of the Project, after which it will revert to the owner’s control and be available again for traditional farming after full decommissioning of the site. Solar development and traditional agriculture can co-exist side-by-side, and increasingly are found together. Horizon Solar will be built primarily on agricultural land, and while the product is not traditionally agricultural, it generates a necessary, renewable product, and continues the tradition of North Carolina's agricultural leadership. Responsible solar development provides benefits to both agriculture and local ecosystems by improving soil health over time, increasing biodiversity, retaining water and topsoil with deep-rooted vegetation, and nurturing native pollinators which support local food production.