AC (Alternating Current)

Slug: ac-alternating-current

URL: https://www.surgepv.com/glossary/ac-alternating-current

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AC (Alternating Current)

Alternating Current (AC) is the form of electricity used by homes, businesses, and utility grids worldwide. Unlike direct current (DC)—which flows in only one direction—AC continually reverses direction, typically 50 or 60 times per second, depending on the country.

In solar power systems, this distinction matters because solar panels naturally generate DC, which must be converted to AC using an inverter before it can power household appliances or be exported to the utility grid. AC is at the center of every grid-connected solar design, affecting system sizing, electrical safety, interconnection compliance, and energy modeling.