When the sun is out, most homes with solar panels will generate more power than they consume. When this is the case, the excess electricity will flow into the utility power grid and your electric meter will measure the amount of energy sent back the to grid! Depending on your provider, you may be credited for this excess energy production, as your electric provider will actually pay you for the electricity produced by your solar power system. This is called net metering. At night, your home’s electricity will function normally, as you will be using electricity from the utility grid to power your home. In some cases, homeowners will add a battery to their solar power system. The added bit of battery can further help reduce electricity costs and can power the home during a utility grid black out.