Most people when they think of solar power think of roof top solar panels, but there’s much more to a solar system than just the panels themselves. To generate reliable, free electricity, every solar power system depends on a number of vital components, each playing an essential role in capturing, converting and storing solar energy.
At SolarTherm UK, we believe that understanding the parts of a solar system helps homeowners and businesses make informed decisions about their investment in clean energy. Whether you’re exploring solar for your home, business or an off grid project, here’s what you need to know about the main solar system components.
The Main Parts of a Solar Power System
A complete solar PV system includes the following components:
- Solar PV panels
- Mounting and racking equipment
- Solar inverter
- Disconnect switch
- Solar battery (optional)
- Back up power supply (optional)
Each of these parts work together to ensure your solar system operates efficiently and safely.
Solar Panels – The Heart of Every Solar System
Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are one of the most important parts of a solar system. They’re the visible component typically mounted on your roof, designed to capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity using photovoltaic cells. This process — known as the photovoltaic effect — is what turns natural sunlight into clean, renewable power for your home or business.
Modern solar panels are made from high-grade silicon cells and are available in three main types:
- Monocrystalline panels
- Polycrystalline panels
- Thin-film panels
Whichever type you choose, solar panels are engineered for durability and longevity. Most panels will continue to generate electricity efficiently for 25 years or more, with many lasting up to 40 years when professionally installed and maintained.
At SolarTherm UK we use Bovill.tech 410W all black solar panels on our installs, providing an industry leading 99-year warranty for long term reliability and peace of mind.
Mounting and Racking Systems
Mounting equipment securely fixes your solar panels to your roof or ground array. These structures are critical for safety, durability and performance. There are three main types of mounting systems; roof mounts, ground mounts and pole mounts. High quality mounting systems ensure your panels stay correctly positioned and safe, even in strong wind or heavy rain.
Inverters – The Brains of the Operation
Your solar inverter converts the DC electricity generated by your panels into usable AC (alternating current) electricity for your home or business. Without an inverter, your solar power is in effect useless and can’t be used. There are three main types of solar inverter; string inverters, microinverters and hybrid inverters. As inverters work continuously, investing in a high quality model from the start ensures reliability and efficiency over time.
Disconnect Switch – Essential for Safety
The disconnect switch, also know as isolator switch, is a required safety feature enabling your system to be switched off and isolated for maintenance and in emergencies.
Solar Batteries – Store and Use Power Anytime
A solar battery is an optional part of a solar system, becoming increasingly popular as energy prices continue to rise. Batteries store excess solar energy produced during the day for use in the evening or during low generation periods.
Adding battery storage can increase your energy independence, reducing your reliability on the grid and saving you more on your electricity bills. At SolarTherm UK we recommend Voltsmile batteries, the V10 and W1 modular batteries can be stacked to cover all your power needs.
Backup Power – Energy Security in Any Weather
For added peace of mind, many solar battery owners choose to include an Emergency Power Source (EPS). This will ensure a reliable energy supply during grid outages, an important consideration if you have medical equipment that requires power to operate. EPS can be anything from a single socket that can be used to keep your fridge freezer running or charge your devices to full property backup.
Bringing It All Together
Every solar system has these essential parts, but a solar system installed by SolarTherm UK goes further, matching your system with your property, we don’t believe in a one size fits all solar design. Solar panels, inverters, batteries and mounting equipment all contribute to the overall efficiency and performance of your solar PV system.
At SolarTherm UK, our expert team designs and installs complete solar solutions using high quality components from trusted manufacturers. For over 15 years we have been experts in solar installation, installing, testing and reviewing the latest technology available on the solar market. Whether you want to power your home, business or off grid project, we’ll guide you through the process from start to finish, ensuring your system is built to last and perform for decades.
Ready to Explore Solar Energy for Your Home or Business?
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
