Solar photovoltaic panels make electricity from light. An inverter turns their output into electricity your home can use.
Follow the energy
Panels produce direct current. The inverter converts it to alternating current for household circuits. When generation exceeds simultaneous demand, the surplus can flow to a battery or the grid, depending on the system. When it falls short, your home usually imports the difference.
Separate power from energy
Panel capacity is commonly stated in kilowatts peak (kWp), a rated output under test conditions. Production over time is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Two roofs with the same rated capacity can have different annual output because their surroundings and orientations differ.
Look beyond the panel count
A proposal should explain the mounting, inverter, cabling, monitoring and connection work as well as the panels. Ask who handles access, roof condition and aftercare. Treat a system as a complete installation rather than a shopping list of modules.