Solar components

A solar quote can read like a parts catalogue: panel models and wattages, inverter types, mounting systems, isolators, monitoring and warranties. Knowing what each component does and which specifications matter helps you compare quotes fairly and ask the right questions. This section explains the main components of a home solar system.

Guides in this section

• Solar panels: how panels work, panel types, wattage, efficiency, datasheets and warranties.
• Solar inverters: string inverters, microinverters, optimisers and hybrid inverters compared.
• Mounting and roof suitability: orientation, tilt, shading, roof types and mounting systems.
• Monitoring and maintenance: how to check your system is working, cleaning, safety checks and troubleshooting.

Solar panels

Solar panels, also called modules, are made of many solar cells that convert sunlight into DC electricity. Most panels sold today use monocrystalline silicon cells. Each panel has a rated power in watts, measured under standard test conditions. Your system's size is the total rated power of all its panels. Panels differ in efficiency, which affects how much power you can fit on your roof, and in how well they cope with heat and shade.

Inverters

The inverter converts DC from the panels into AC for your home and the grid, and manages the system. Most homes use a single string inverter, often mounted in a garage or on an outside wall. Microinverters are small units fitted behind each panel. Power optimisers sit behind each panel and work with a central inverter. Hybrid inverters manage both panels and a battery. Each approach has strengths for different roofs and budgets.

Mounting and wiring

Mounting systems fix panels securely to the roof and must be suited to the roof type and local wind conditions. Cabling connects panels to the inverter, and isolators and protection devices allow the system to be safely shut down and protect against faults. Australian Standards set requirements for how arrays are installed and how inverters connect to the grid.

Monitoring

Most inverters include monitoring, often through an app, showing how much your system generates. Some systems also measure your household consumption, which helps you understand how much solar you use and export. Monitoring is the easiest way to spot a fault.

Batteries

Home batteries store surplus solar for later use. They are usually lithium-ion and are measured by usable storage capacity in kilowatt-hours and by power output in kilowatts. Batteries must be installed according to Australian Standards, which restrict where they can be placed. Read our battery guide.

Reading datasheets

Every panel, inverter and battery has a datasheet listing its specifications. You don't need to understand every figure, but a few are useful. For panels, look at the rated power, efficiency, temperature coefficient and dimensions. For inverters, check the rated AC output, the number of maximum power point trackers (MPPTs) and the efficiency. For batteries, look at usable capacity, continuous power output and warranty conditions, including any limits on throughput. Ask the installer to explain anything you don't understand.

Approved products and standards

For a system to be eligible for STCs, it must use panels, inverters and batteries from the Clean Energy Council's approved product lists, and be designed and installed by a person accredited by Solar Accreditation Australia. Installations must comply with Australian Standards, including those covering PV array installation, inverter grid connection, battery installation and electrical wiring, as well as your network's connection rules.

Warranties

Warranties are an important part of comparing quotes. Panels usually come with a product warranty covering defects and a performance warranty covering output over time. Inverters and batteries have their own product warranties, and installers should offer a workmanship warranty covering the installation. Check who backs each warranty and whether the manufacturer has a local presence. Australian Consumer Law also gives you consumer guarantees that apply regardless of any warranty.

Brands and quality

We don't rank brands. Product quality varies, and the best choice depends on your needs and budget. Look for approved products, clear datasheets, solid warranties with local support and an installer who can explain why they've chosen each component.

Upgrading components

Owners of older systems often upgrade components rather than replacing everything. A failed inverter can be replaced with a newer model, sometimes a hybrid ready for a battery. Adding panels may need a larger inverter, network approval and a check on STC eligibility. Ask installers whether existing panels and new components are compatible, and remember that mixing panel models on one string can reduce performance.

Where to find datasheets

Manufacturers publish datasheets and installation manuals on their websites. Ask your installer for the exact documents for the models quoted, and keep copies with your system records.

Key points

Panels generate DC power, the inverter converts it to AC and manages the system, and mounting, cabling and protection devices keep it secure and safe. Use approved products, compare datasheets and warranties, check that the installer is accredited, and use monitoring to keep an eye on performance.