A photovoltaic system converts sunlight into electricity using solar panels. The basic components are solar panels, an inverter to convert DC to AC power, electrical wiring, and sometimes batteries for storage. Roof-mounted PV systems are increasingly popular for grid-tied homes, where excess power generated can be sent to the utility grid and power can flow back from the utility when solar power is insufficient. Case studies can use software to estimate costs and energy production for different locations based on factors like sunlight hours.