The key components of a solar system include solar panels, an inverter, and solar batteries. Choosing and setting up a solar system in your home or business becomes easy when you understand how the key components of a solar system work.
So, after you familiarize yourself with the characteristics and purpose of each component, making the right decision and setting up a system is bound to go smoothly.
Therefore, in this article, we will go over the essential solar system parts and functions, including the various types, their functions, and how they work together.
What is a Solar System?
A solar system is a setup based on solar panels designed to provide electricity by capturing, converting, and storing solar energy. Solar systems are widely used in both residential and commercial settings as a sustainable, economical, and renewable source of energy that reduces dependence on fossil fuels and minimizes environmental impact.
To gain a better understanding of all the components of a solar system and renewable energy equipment, we’ll first explore the difference between off-grid solar setups and on-grid solar systems.
So, an off-grid solar system is an independent installation that isn’t directly connected to the public electricity grid. This type of solar system requires battery storage for solar power to store the energy produced by the solar panels. The stored energy can be used when sunlight isn’t available.
The on-grid solar system is directly connected to the public electricity grid. If the solar system produces more energy than necessary, the extra energy can be sold to the public electricity grid.
There’s also the possibility of setting up a hybrid solar system that combines the advantages of the on- and off-grid systems.
Regardless of the type of solar system you opt for, solar energy system components will be more or less the same, with the only difference being the solar battery, which isn’t necessary if you’re setting up an on-grid solar system.
That being said, let’s go over the main components of a solar system, including solar panels, solar inverters, solar batteries, mounting and racking systems, monitoring systems and wires, and other electrical components in detail.
#1. Solar Panels
The majority of solar panels that are produced nowadays can be categorized into one of three types: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, or thin-film. Though all solar panels do the same thing—capture sunlight and turn it into electricity—solar panel system parts differ in many ways. To understand the differences between them, let’s explain their key characteristics.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels got their name from the way they are made. Each of the individual solar cells contains a silicon wafer that is made of a single crystal of silicon.
These are the most popular solar panels used in rooftop solar installations today. One of the reasons people tend to choose this type of solar panel is its appearance. Solar cells in monocrystalline panels have a single, flat black color, which gives it a sleek, elegant look.
You can recognize a monocrystalline panel by the shape of the silicon tiles, which are designed like a square with the corners cut off.
Monocrystalline solar panels typically have the highest efficiency and power capacity compared to other types. Their efficiency ranges from 17% to 22%. This means that they require less space to achieve the desired energy capacity.
This type of solar panel is generally considered the most advantageous, as they are durable, efficient, and well-designed. However, its price may not be affordable to everyone.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar cells are produced in the same way as monocrystalline panels, but instead of extracting the silicon seed crystal like it’s done in monocrystalline panels, the entire pot of silicon is cooled.
This cooling process causes more crystals to form. This kind of crystalline structure makes the efficiency level of polycrystalline panels lower than monocrystalline ones and typically ranges from 15% to 17%.
In terms of appearance, they are often blue in color and do not have their corners cut off like monocrystalline ones. Thanks to new technologies, polycrystalline panels are much closer in efficiency to monocrystalline solar panels than they were in the past.
The main advantage of this type of solar panel is affordability. They are practical for residential use, and many people who have to make budget-friendly choices opt for this type of solar panel. As for their disadvantages, apart from being slightly less efficient than the monocrystalline ones, their design may not be as visually appealing.
Thin-Film Solar Panels
Thin-film solar panels are made by depositing a thin layer of photovoltaic substance on a solid surface, such as glass. These photovoltaic substances can be:
- Amorphous silicon (a-Si)
- Cadmium telluride (CdTe)
- Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS)
- Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSC)
Thin-film solar panels are a photovoltaic system setup that is completely different from monocrystalline and polycrystalline ones. Their color is completely black without the usual silicon cell frames seen on the surface of crystalline solar panels. These panels are also much lighter and the most flexible, which makes their installation easy.
The advantages of thin-film solar panels are aesthetics, flexibility, and lightweight, while their disadvantages are lower efficiency than the previous two types of solar panels and a short service life. For this reason, they are mostly used in large solar systems, like industrial and commercial ones.
#2. Solar Inverters
The purpose of solar inverters is to convert the direct current (DC) produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) for household use. There are many inverter types and uses, but they are generally divided into the following three categories:
String Inverters
String inverters are also known as centralized inverters and are among the most commonly used ones in solar energy systems. These inverters function by receiving the combined direct current (DC) output from multiple solar panels connected in series.
They then convert this direct current into an alternating current, which can be used to power household appliances or fed into the grid. String inverters have a single MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking), which means that the entire array of solar panels operates at the same voltage and current level.
They are budget-friendly, easy to maintain, simple to install, efficient, durable, and suitable for a variety of installations from residential to commercial.
As for their disadvantages, they may have limited compatibility in the sense that it can be difficult to match them with different panel sizes and technologies. They may not be so simple to install in complex roof layouts.
Microinverters
Unlike string inverters, which collectively process the DC output of multiple solar panels, microinverters are installed directly on each solar panel, converting DC electricity at the source. Microinverters work on a per-panel basis, which means that each solar panel in the installation has its own dedicated inverter.
This decentralized approach offers several advantages, including increased energy harvesting, enhanced system flexibility, and improved reliability.
Because each panel operates independently, the shading or poor performance of one panel does not affect the output of the entire system, mitigating the “Christmas light effect” associated with the string inverters.
It is also a scalable solar energy solution, as it is easy to add more panels to the system without a major redesign. However, since they are composed of more units, their installation is more complex, which means they may not be the ideal choice for large systems.
Hybrid Inverters
Hybrid inverters have multiple modes of operation, including grid-connected, off-grid, and hybrid modes, giving users flexibility in managing energy consumption. Hybrid inverters function by prioritizing the use of solar energy for on-site consumption and charging the associated battery storage system with any excess energy.
During periods of low solar production or increased energy demand, they can draw energy from batteries to supplement grid supply, reducing reliance on grid electricity and providing backup power during outages.
Their primary advantage lies in their ability to manage energy from solar panels, batteries, and the grid while also enabling offline operation.
#3. Solar Batteries
Solar batteries, also called solar accumulators, are the key components of a solar system. They store excess solar energy produced by solar panels so that you can use it later, which is particularly useful when there’s no sunlight. There are three main types of solar batteries:
Lithium-Ion
Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular and advanced type of solar battery. They are made of lithium metal and various compounds such as lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, or lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide.
Their price may be high, but they have many advantages, such as high energy density, high power output, high depth of discharge, and long life.
A high energy density means they can store more energy per unit volume or weight. This means you need less space and weight to store the same amount of energy as other types of batteries.
Thanks to high power output, they can deliver more energy per unit of time, meaning you need fewer batteries to power your devices at the same time.
High depth of discharge means that these batteries can use up most of their total capacity before needing to be recharged, and they lose very little energy during the charging and recharging process.
Finally, since they have a long life, they need to be replaced less often than other types of batteries.
Lead-Acid
Lead-acid batteries are the oldest and most common type of solar battery. They are made of lead plates immersed in a solution of sulfuric acid and are affordable, reliable, and widely available. The fact that they are based on proven and reliable technology is what makes them so popular.
However, their lifespan is much shorter, which means they have to be replaced more often than some other types of batteries.
They also have low energy density, so they store less energy per unit volume or weight and have a low power output, which means they can deliver less energy per unit of time. This basically indicates that in order to power your devices simultaneously, you will need more batteries.
Additionally, they can only use a small portion of their total energy before needing to be recharged due to their low depth of discharge.
Considering their characteristics, lead-acid batteries are best suited for off-grid solar systems where affordability is a priority.
Flow Batteries
Flow batteries are a new and innovative type of solar battery made of liquid electrolytes that flow through a stack of cells. They differ from other types of solar batteries because they have a special and scalable energy storage system.
As for their advantages, they have a high capacity, so they can store more energy per unit volume or weight than other types of solar cells, meaning you need less space and weight to store the same amount of energy as other types of batteries.
In addition, you can increase the capacity of a flow battery by adding more electrolyte reservoirs without affecting the output power.
These also have a high depth of discharge, meaning they can use almost all of their total capacity before needing to be recharged. Thanks to high recovery efficiency, they lose very little energy during the charging and discharging process. Finally, they are very durable and usually come with an extended warranty.
The major disadvantage of this battery type is low power output, which suggests they can deliver less energy per unit of time than other types of solar batteries, so you would practically need more batteries to power your devices at the same time than other types of batteries.
Their installation may be a bit complicated, and they have a larger physical footprint, but their biggest disadvantage in general is the high upfront cost.
Nevertheless, the scalability and durability of these technologies make them ideal for large-scale energy storage applications.
#4. Mounting and Racking Systems
Mounting and racking systems have a very important role in the installation of the components of a solar system. They secure solar panels in place, ensuring optimal sunlight exposure. Types of mounting systems include:
Roof-Mounted
Roof-mounted systems are the most widely used mounting system for solar panel installation. They are fixed directly onto the roof structure using brackets and rails.
Due to the simplicity of installation and the fact that they don’t require any additional space since they utilize existing roof areas, they are ideal for both residential and commercial use. They also come with an added bonus of protecting the roof from weather damage.
As for their disadvantages, they mostly depend on the type of roof they are installed on. For example, they might be limited by roof orientation and/or angle, making them more difficult to maintain in hard-to-reach roof areas. Also, heavier systems may need roof reinforcement.
Ground-Mounted
Ground-mounted solar system installations are an excellent solution for ample spaces since they are installed on open land. Supported by metal frames and poles, ground-mounted systems allow for a lot of flexibility in placement as they can be adjusted to achieve optimal tilt and orientation for maximum sunlight exposure.
Because they are on the ground, they are easily accessible for maintenance and cleaning. However, since they require plenty of space for installation, they may be a better choice for larger-scale installations than for typical residential use.
Tracking Systems
Tracking systems are the most advanced mounting solutions for installing solar systems. Their key advantage is the ability to enhance solar panel efficiency by following the sun’s movement throughout the day. Thanks to this feature, they increase energy production by 20-30%, maximizing efficiency regardless of season or weather. They are ideal for areas with high solar radiation.
As for their disadvantages, they may require more complicated installation. Plus, their price is usually higher and may not be affordable to everyone. In addition, they may not be suitable for all geographic areas.
#5. Solar Charge Controller
A solar charge controller's main function as part of a solar system is to control energy discharge and avoid overcharging in order to maximize battery life. Overcharging can damage batteries, thus affecting the efficiency of the entire solar system.
In addition, solar charge controllers are designed to prevent reverse current flow from the batteries back to the solar panels during the night. There are two types of solar charge controllers, including:
#1. PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
These solar charge controllers come with a relatively small difference between the voltage of the solar panels and the voltage of the battery, which makes them the best choices for smaller systems. They are also simple to use and more affordable compared to the other types. Their mechanism is based on a gradual reduction of the current as the battery approaches full charge.
#2. MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking)
MPPT solar charge controllers are efficient, particularly in systems with solar panels of higher voltage. For this reason, they are the best choice for larger systems and setups with variable environmental conditions. The main principle of their work is based on harvesting energy by adapting the solar panel voltage to its maximum power point.
#6. Monitoring System
A solar energy monitoring system is designed to assess the performance and efficiency of a solar power system. This system can be integrated with solar inverters and charge controllers or configured as an independent device.
Through a software interface that can be accessed via mobile applications or the web, it provides information on the generation of energy, its utilization, and the performance of the system.
Due to the fact that it provides information regarding the overall health of the solar system, this component is of utmost significance in a solar system—it helps to deter major malfunctions.
In addition, the information obtained from the monitoring system can be utilized to maximize the production, utilization, and storage of energy.
#7. Wires and Other Electrical Components
Wires and other electrical components are essential for the proper functioning of the solar system. Their role is to connect all parts to ensure the efficient flow of electricity. Any kind of failure in regards to wires and other small components of a solar system can substantially affect the efficiency of the entire system, causing overheating and similar damages.
Wires and other electrical components of a solar system include:
- Solar wires. Connect solar panels to other components of a solar system, like an inverter, charge controller, and battery. They are made of UV-rated materials that are weather-resistant and suitable for outdoor use.
- Fuses and circuit breakers. Used for protecting the solar power system from power surges and short circuits.
- Connectors. Provide a water-resistant connection between solar panels and other components of a solar system.
- Conduits. Used for cable organization and protection, particularly in outdoor conditions.
- Junction boxes. Utilized for optimal protection and organization of wire connections.
3 Main Benefits of Having a Well-Integrated Solar System
Carefully choosing all the components of a solar system is the key to a well-integrated solar configuration. The solar system's performance can only be fully maximized by making sure all the parts function as a whole. When each component reinforces the function of another, the system's resilience and efficacy are improved.
So, with that in mind, here are the three main benefits of having a well-integrated solar system:
#1. Maximized Energy Production
When the solar system is designed to perfectly match the needs and conditions of the establishment and when all of its components support its functions, this alignment minimizes the energy loss. Moreover, it optimizes the production and utilization of the produced energy.
#2. Cost Savings and Increased Efficiency
A well-integrated solar system can significantly lower electricity bills. Components like solar batteries and monitoring systems play an especially important role in optimizing the production and utilization of the produced energy, enhancing efficiency by minimizing waste, and maximizing savings.
Additionally, when all the components of a solar system work well together, the return on investment is maximized while the maintenance costs are minimized, which all together significantly contributes to cost savings.
#3. Durability and Low Maintenance
Selecting high-quality solar system components ensures the longevity of the entire system, but mutual compatibility also boosts system durability.
A well-integrated solar system will have less frequent and less serious technical issues, thus requiring menial maintenance and providing extended durability.
Maximize Your Energy Savings!
Enjoy lower electricity bills by investing in a well-integrated solar system. Take the first step toward a sustainable energy solution and choose all the components of a solar system wisely to create a system tailored to your needs!
Explore key solar system components here!
Final Thoughts
Investing in high-quality components of a solar system provides many benefits, from ensuring the efficiency and reliability of the system to reducing costs and optimizing solar energy production.
Each component of a solar system should be considered with equal attention, as the performance of a solar system depends on the quality and mutual alignment of all of its components.
So, take your time to explore how solar energy works and don’t hesitate to consult us should you have any questions regarding the choice of any of the components!
Components of a Solar System FAQ
#1. What are the most important parts of a solar system?
The most important parts of a solar system are solar panels, an inverter, a battery, a charge controller, and wiring and connectors. Though solar panels are the central part of every solar power system, each component is equally important for ensuring the maximum efficiency of the system.
#2. Can I use a solar panel system without a battery?
Yes, you can use a solar panel system without a battery. This means your system will have to be connected to the electrical grid, as you won’t have energy storage for backup or off-grid use.
#3. How do I choose the right inverter for my system?
To choose the right inverter, you need to consider the solar power system size, compatibility with the solar panel’s voltage, and power requirements. Depending on your needs, you can choose between string inverters, microinverters, and hybrid inverters.