Residential Solar Panel Systems

Before understanding how a solar power system functions to provide electricity from the sun, first, it’s essential to learn the components that comprise a full system. These components include the solar panels, inverters, batteries, charge controllers, and mounting systems. 

When the sun shines onto a solar panel, the PV cells in the panel absorb the energy from the sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. It then flows to an inverter, which converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), the latter of which you can use to power your home. 

Setting up a solar power system involves several steps. The first pivotal steps include planning, assessments, and acquiring necessary permits. Fortunately, solar installers in Australia typically take care of processing permits for you. 

Then comes selecting the right solar system, such as its size, and the right solar installer. Choosing the right solar panels and solar installer requires some heavy researching and comparisons. The final step is, of course, the actual installation of your solar power system. 

It’s also worth noting that while a number of people install the solar panels themselves, leaving the installation in the hands of professional installers and electricians guarantees efficiency and safety. 

Expanding most solar power systems is possible, however, there are factors that need considering, which are as follows: 

• Can your existing inverter handle additional panels? If not, you might need an inverter upgrade, or install another one.  Also, are your new solar panels compatible with your existing inverter? As with any type of installation, compatibility is always key. 
• Is there enough roof space for more panels? The only way extra panels can be installed is if your roof permits it space-wise. If not, you’ll need to find other places to mount your PV panels, such as the ground. 
• Did you acquire your existing system between 2007 and 2012? A solar system installed during this period is generally safe to update with more panels, however, you would also require solar panels from the same generation, which can be complex. 

It’s because the solar panels available today are unlikely to be integrated with older systems. The newer panels would also require their own system, meaning new inverters, cables — the whole nine yards. There’s also the matter of expense since Australia’s rebates might not cover second installations. 

The bottom line is, it’s possible to expand your system with additional panels, but it’s something you need to discuss with professional solar installers before making a decision to understand what the process will be like and what your options are.