The hardware you'll need will depend on what you want to do with your solar setup. At the most basic, you'll need solar panels and an inverter to make the power you generate usable. Even in this instance you need to know what to look for in terms of technologies and efficiency - both for the inverter and for the panels. Want to feed power back into the grid? You'll need a bi-directional smart meter.And if you're looking at storing the power you generate, you'll also need to look into a battery bank, and a charge controller to protect it.
Not all hardware's created equal. Find out what you need to consider when choosing different parts for a solar panel installation.
Solar photovoltaic panels
Everything you need to know about solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, including how they work, what types exist, what affects their output, how they need to be installed and more.
DC to AC inverters for solar and wind power
AC inverters are necessary to convert the direct current (DC) generated by your solar panels or wind turbine to an alternating current (AC). Read more about how they work, what sort you'll need and how they're installed.
Smart meters
If you'd like to feed electricity back into the grid, you'll need a bi-directional smart meter to do so. Find out how this process works, and what role the smart meter plays.
Regulators or charge controllers
Regulators - also known as 'charge controllers' help to regulate the flow of current to battery banks. Read about how the right regulator will help to protect and prolong the life of your battery bank.
Battery bank storage systems
A battery bank will help to ensure that you always have enough power, no matter how little wind there is at any given time. Find out more about battery banks, and what type will suit your requirements.