What are the key components of the solar system?

  • Solar panels
  • Inverter
  • Switches
  • Wires & cables
  • Mounting racks
Get Obligation Free Quote
July 23, 2021

What are the key components of the solar system?

A solar system consists of a number of key components which combine together to generate electricity, regulate and control the flow and quality of electricity and to connect and mount the system to your building. It is important that each of the components is designed to work optimally together and none of the components compromise the performance, safety or life expectancy of the others components.

Grid Tied Solar Systems

Grid-connected photovoltaic systems are designed to operate in parallel with the electric utility grid. The key components of Grid Tied solar systems are:

  1. Solar Panels

Solar panels are the most noticeable component of a residential solar electric system. The solar panels are installed outside the home, typically on the roof and convert sunlight into DC electricity.

Solar Panels make it happen through photovoltaic effect, which  is the process of converting sunlight into electricity. Solar panels are given output ratings in watts. This rating is the maximum produced by the panel under ideal conditions. Output per panel is between 10 and 500watts. With numerous solar modules in the market it can be difficult to choose the one that is a good and trustworthy brand. Thus Bloomberg energy finance has created Pv module tiering system. Make sure to always install CEC approved Tier 1 panels.

 2. Inverter

Inverter Converts DC electricity into AC electricity to power the house loads. A solar inverter is one of the most important elements of the solar electric power system. It converts the variable direct current (DC) output of a photovoltaic (PV) solar panel into alternating current (AC). This AC electricity then can be fed into your home to operate your appliances. 

The electricity that is not used in your home is then either fed into the grid (electrical power lines) or into home battery storage. New hybrid inverters include an integrated battery management system.

Long lasting solar power systems require a high quality inverter with a robust convection cooling system. Low quality inverters have unfortunately failed in the Australian climate. Check the list of inverters suitable for Australian climate and approved by CEC.

3. Mounting

A solar mounting system is a component that secures solar panels to your roof and holds them in place. There are different solar racking systems available and your solar provider chooses the right mounting system for your solar installation. They can differentiate options based on your roof type. Speak to our experts to get your roof layout and expert advice.

4. Switches

There are two switches that come with the solar system, one is an AC switch and another is a DC switch. A DC isolator switch is an electrical safety device that manually disconnects itself from the modules in a solar PV system. In PV applications, DC isolator switches are used to manually disconnect the solar panels for maintenance, installation or repair purposes. In most solar PV installations, two DC isolator switches are connected to a single string. Normally, one switch is placed close to the PV array and the other close to the DC end of the inverter. This is to ensure that disconnection can be achieved at ground and roof level. DC isolators can come in polarized or non-polarized configurations. For DC isolator switches that are polarized, they come in two, three and four pole configurations. AC isolator switches are used for disconnecting the inverter from the grid for maintenance, repair or installation. Below is an example of an AC isolator used in most PV applications.

5. Labels

According to CEC, it is legally necessary to put safety signs, labels & instructions wherever necessary in your solar system.

6. Wires and cables

Solar installers connect a large range of cables, wires and accessories. Good quality cable ensures that the power generated by your solar panels ends up where it’s useful – not ending up as wasteful heat.

Choose right components that help you to save on solar system

All these components are a part of the solar package. The price provided to you by your solar installer is inclusive of all the above components. We can help you design the customized solar package for your property. Speak to our team to learn more. 

Speak to an expert
Request a call back to discuss your needs.

Let us analyse your electricity bills to find the best solar panels and system for your household or business.
Call 1300 274 737 or use the button below to request a call back from one of our friendly consultants for an obligation-free chat.

Request a Call

Get an obligation-free quote

Receive a personalised proposal within 48 hours

    By filling this form, you have read, understood and agreed to Terms & Condition's and Privacy Policy

    Get an obligation-free quote

    Receive a personalised proposal within 48 hours

      By filling this form, you have read, understood and agreed to Terms & Condition's and Privacy Policy

      Speak to an expert

      Request a call back to discuss your needs

        Before 8am8am - 12pm12pm - 5pmAfter 5pm

        By filling this form, you have read, understood and agreed to Terms & Condition's and Privacy Policy

        Claim Rewarded Upto $150.00

        Receive a call from dedicated solar expert

          FRIEND DETAILS

          YOUR DETAILS



          By filling this form, you have read, understood and agreed to Terms & Condition's and Privacy Policy

          Extra charges apply for different panels/models. This Solar System Promotion is available for standard metropolitan based installations only. Price is after Small Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) have been assigned to Arise Solar Pty Ltd T/A Arise Solar or its agents. Any additional extras including but not limited to double storey, roof type, meter box upgrades or three phase power, may attract additional charges. *Price beat offer applies to local competitor advertised quotes only and must be for identical goods. T&C’s apply. Excludes Victoria