How does solar power connect to the electrical grid?

The solar energy generated by PV panels is converted from DC to AC power by an on-site inverter.  In grid connected systems, the AC electric current can then be routed directly into the home or business or routed to the electric grid via a two-way meter.  In “net metered” systems, the meter runs forward when the home or business is using more power than is generated by the solar panels.  It runs backwards when the solar panels are generating more power than is being consumed on-site.  The system owner receives a credit from the utility for the value of the excess electricity sent to the grid.  In other words, the solar system owner is charged only for the  “net” electricity consumed.