We wanted to explain, in simple terms, what a solar power plant is and what the common technical terms mean.
After 2012 — and especially from 2016 onward — solar energy systems started becoming a part of everyday life in Türkiye.
At Orbit Enerji, back in 2012, we had to convince people to let us build a solar power plant so they could see how much energy and profit it would produce.
Today, the situation is the exact opposite — now, people come to us saying, “Please install a solar system for me too.”
Everyone with a rooftop has now become an energy investor, and people have started to realize how valuable solar energy really is.
As Orbit Enerji, we are pleased that people are increasingly turning toward free, renewable energy.
EPC stands for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction.
A company that handles the design, engineering, material supply, and installation of a solar project under one roof is called an EPC company.
Companies that only perform installation are not EPC firms.
Many investors confuse installation companies with EPC firms.
For example, Orbit Enerji is an EPC company — we manage every stage of a project from start to finish with a single authorization from the investor, and deliver it as a turnkey system.
Investors don’t need to be involved in any process unless they choose to.
Grid System:
“Grid” means the electricity network.
Grid-connected systems work in parallel with the public grid (in Türkiye, at 50 Hz).
If there is a power outage, the system also shuts down.
Off-Grid System:
As the name suggests, it works independently from the grid — typically used in remote houses, cabins, or small setups with a few panels and batteries.
An inverter converts DC (direct current) energy from solar panels or batteries into AC (alternating current) — the form of electricity used by household devices.
In Turkish, it is also called “evirici.”
It is the support structure that fixes solar panels to the roof or ground.
It can be made of steel or aluminum.
The structure is not just a simple frame — its quality directly affects the performance, safety, and lifespan of the panels.
Also known as solar panels, these are devices made of semiconducting materials that convert sunlight (photons) into electrical energy.
Choosing the right panel is crucial.
Many investors make decisions without technical evaluation, often relying on brand reputation or price alone — which can lead to poor results.
A DC cable carries direct current from solar panels to the inverter.
Cable size should be selected according to the voltage and current of the system.
Because they carry high current and are exposed to outdoor conditions, special solar-rated cables must be used.
Improper installation is one of the most common fire hazards in solar systems — so installation should always be done by qualified professionals.
In grid-connected systems approved by TEDAŞ (the Turkish grid authority), any excess energy produced can be fed into the grid, and energy can be drawn back when needed.
The balance is calculated as:
Result = Energy Given – Energy Taken
If you export more energy than you consume, the state buys your surplus at the current retail rate.
If you consume more than you produce, you pay for the difference.
If energy flows both ways (export/import), you pay half the transmission fee for the exchanged amount.
For energy you sell, no transmission fee is charged.
For energy you import, you pay the full transmission fee for the excess amount.
Installing a solar power system allows you to produce your own clean energy, reduce your electricity bills, and become an independent energy investor.
For more information and professional guidance, you can always contact Orbit Enerji — we’re proud to share our experience and help you achieve sustainable energy savings.