What is a Solar Array? The Complete Guide for Phoenix Residents

Published: February 6, 2026

Living in Phoenix, the sun is more than just a source of heat; it is a powerful, untapped resource waiting to be harnessed. While many homeowners and business owners are familiar with the concept of solar power, the technical terminology can sometimes get lost in translation. One of the most common questions we field is simple yet fundamental: “What is a solar array?”

Understanding the mechanics of a solar array is the first step toward energy independence. It is not just about slapping panels on a roof; it is about precise engineering, strategic placement, and selecting premium components that stand up to the Arizona heat. This guide breaks down exactly what a solar array is, how it functions, and why the financial landscape of 2026 makes now the perfect time to act.

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Solar Array Definition: More Than Just Panels

A solar array is the complete collection of solar panels wired together to generate electricity as a single system. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference between a solar panel and a solar array.

• Solar Panel: This is a single photovoltaic (PV) module. It is one piece of the puzzle.
• Solar Array: This is the completed puzzle. It includes all the solar array panels connected to work in unison.

Think of it like a battery in a device. One AA battery is a power source, but a pack of four wired together to power a high-drain device is an array. Whether installed on a rooftop, a carport, or a ground mount, the array is the engine of your solar energy system.

How a Solar Electric Array Works

To understand the value of a solar electric array, you must understand the workflow of energy production. At our firm, we approach this with an engineering mindset to ensure maximum efficiency.

1. Capture: Sunlight hits the photovoltaic cells within the solar panels.
2. Activation: The energy from the sun knocks electrons loose within the cells, creating an electrical current.
3. Direct Current (DC): This initial flow of energy is Direct Current (DC) electricity.
4. Conversion: The DC electricity travels to an inverter (or microinverters), which converts it into Alternating Current (AC) electricity.
5. Usage: Your home or business uses this AC electricity to power lights, appliances, and HVAC systems.

Precisely Engineered for the Phoenix Climate

Not all arrays are created equal. A solar panel array installed in Seattle requires a different configuration than one in Phoenix. In the Valley of the Sun, heat tolerance and azimuth (the direction the panels face) are critical factors.

Solar Panel Orientation and Tilt

For maximum output, a south-facing array generally captures the most sunlight throughout the day. However, west-facing arrays are increasingly valuable in Phoenix because they capture the late afternoon sun—right when air conditioning usage peaks and utility rates often spike.

East-facing arrays are also viable, capturing the morning sun to power the home as it wakes up. Our engineering team calculates the optimal tilt and orientation to ensure your system performs at an elite level, regardless of your roof’s natural layout.

Solar Array vs Solar Panel: Why Size Matters

When determining the scope of your project, the distinction of solar array vs solar panel becomes about scale. A single panel might produce 400 watts of power. However, to offset the energy consumption of a typical Phoenix home—especially one running AC during the summer—you need significantly more power.

A standard residential solar array might consist of 15 to 25 panels, creating a system size of 6kW to 10kW. Commercial projects scale up massively, often linking hundreds of panels. The goal is to “right-size” the array. An undersized array won’t save you enough money, while an oversized array may produce diminishing returns. We analyze your historical energy usage to engineer a system that meets your specific needs without unnecessary excess.

The 2026 Financial Landscape: Leasing vs. Owning

For years, the standard advice in the solar industry was to purchase your system cash or via a loan to take advantage of the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). However, as we look toward 2026, the financial models are shifting.

Why Solar Leasing is Winning in 2026

In 2026, solar leasing is emerging as a powerhouse option that rivals, and in some cases exceeds, the benefits of ownership. Here is why:

• Cost Parity with ITC: Leasing structures have evolved. The leasing companies (who technically own the equipment) claim the tax credits and are now passing those savings directly to the consumer in the form of significantly lower monthly payments. This creates a scenario where the net cost to the homeowner is essentially the same as if they had claimed the ITC themselves.
• Maintenance-Free: When you lease, the solar array remains the responsibility of the provider. If an inverter fails or a panel underperforms, it is not your problem to solve or pay for. This offers peace of mind and predictable budgeting.
• Technology Upgrades: Leasing terms often provide pathways to upgrade equipment down the line, ensuring you aren’t stuck with outdated tech in 15 years.

We believe in transparency. For many of our clients, a lease in 2026 offers the immediate bill reduction of solar without the long-term liability of ownership.

Enhancing Your Array with Enphase IQ10C Batteries

A solar array generates power when the sun is shining, but life continues after sunset. To truly maximize the efficiency of your system, energy storage is essential. We proudly recommend and install Enphase IQ10C batteries.

Why Enphase IQ10C?

• Seamless Integration: These batteries are designed to communicate perfectly with your solar array and microinverters.
• Resilience: In the event of a grid outage (during monsoon season, for example), the IQ10C provides reliable backup power for your essential appliances.
• Load Shifting: You can store excess energy generated during the cool morning hours and deploy it during peak rate times in the evening, further slashing your utility bill.

Integrating a battery turns a standard solar electric array into a comprehensive energy management system.

Residential and Commercial Applications

Whether you are powering a single-family home in Scottsdale or a manufacturing warehouse in Mesa, the principles of the solar array remain the same, though the engineering challenges differ.

Residential Solar Arrays

For homeowners, aesthetics and roof space are key. We design low-profile arrays that blend with your architecture while delivering enough power to zero out your electric bill.

Commercial Solar Arrays

For businesses, the focus is on ROI and demand charge reduction. Commercial arrays are often larger and may utilize flat-roof ballasted systems or solar carports (providing shade for employees while generating power).

The Path to Energy Independence with Solar Topps

Installing a solar array is a construction project, an electrical upgrade, and a financial investment rolled into one. It requires a partner with an elite work ethic and a commitment to engineering excellence.

At our firm, we do not cut corners. We analyze your unique situation, explain the technical details without the jargon, and deliver a system that performs exactly as promised. From understanding the solar array definition to flipping the switch on your new system, we handle the grind so you can enjoy the savings.

The sun is shining in Phoenix. It is time to put it to work.

Ready to Engineer Your Savings in Phoenix, AZ?

Stop renting your power from the utility company. Contact us today for a comprehensive, no-obligation quote for your residential or commercial property. Let us design a premium solar solution tailored to your energy needs.

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