Inverter

This is a device that converts the DC power generated by solar panels to AC power. It’s used by most common household appliances. There are a number of different inverters, including:

Microinverter

A microinverter is a compact inverter located on the back of a classic solar panel. It converts DC power to AC power at the individual panel’s level, ensuring maximum safety and addressing shading problems faced by PV systems.

String inverter

A string inverter is designed to convert DC power from a single string of solar panels into AC power for use in homes or businesses. It’s typically used in smaller solar installations where individual panels are connected in a series.

Centralized inverter

This is a larger-scale inverter that is designed to convert DC power from multiple strings or connected solar panels into AC power, centralizing the inversion process for multiple panels. It’s often utilized in larger commercial or utility-scale solar installations.

Hybrid inverter

A hybrid inverter is a combination of a solar inverter and a battery inverter into a single device. It can intelligently manage power from your solar panels, batteries, and the grid at the same time.

Junction Box

The junction box contains all of the crucial electric gear that powers everything a solar panel does. This equipment is kept in a box to protect it from the weather – not to mention pigeons.

When solar panels are made, adding the junction box is the penultimate step, right before the solid aluminum frame that protects panels and allows them to be fixed to your roof.

Kilowatt hours (kWh)

This is the measurement that shows how much usable power is produced by your solar panels.

Over a year, the average family of three will need a 3kW system, made up of 10 panels with 300W potential. Because conditions are never perfect all year round, this array will produce around 2,550kWh – close to the actual amount of electricity your household can use.