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START HERESolar Basics
A simple introduction to solar energy and how panels, inverters, batteries and your electrical system work together.
Learn Solar Basics→SOLAR8 KNOWLEDGE CENTRE
Understand Solar.Make Better Decisions.
New to solar or trying to understand what system is right for your property? Start here. Our Knowledge Centre explains the key components and concepts in simple, practical language.
START HERE
Solar doesn't have to be complicated.
Understanding a few important concepts can make it much easier to compare solar systems and decide what your property actually needs.
01
Learn the Basics
Understand how solar panels, inverters, batteries and your electrical system work together.
Solar Basics →02
Understand the Components
Learn what solar panels, inverters and batteries do, and what specifications actually matter.
Explore Components →03
Understand Your Requirements
Your electricity usage, appliances and backup requirements determine the type of system you need.
Start Assessment →EXPLORE THE KNOWLEDGE CENTRE
Choose a topic
Explore the areas that matter when planning or understanding a solar energy system.
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COMPONENTSolar Panels
Understand how solar panels generate electricity and the factors that affect their performance and output.
Learn About Solar Panels→03
COMPONENTInverters
Learn what an inverter does and understand the difference between grid-tied, hybrid and backup inverter systems.
Learn About Inverters→04
COMPONENTBatteries
Understand battery capacity, energy storage, discharge and how batteries can provide backup power when solar production or grid electricity is unavailable.
Learn About Batteries→05
YOUR PROPERTYSystem Sizing & Backup Power
Your ideal solar system depends on your electricity usage, appliances, available space and backup requirements.
Get My FREE Assessment→UNDERSTANDING SYSTEMS
What type of solar system are you considering?
Solar systems can be designed for different objectives. Understanding the differences can help you identify what matters most for your property.
Solar Savings
Use solar energy during the day to reduce the amount of electricity purchased from the grid.
Explore Solar Systems →Solar + Battery
Combine solar generation with battery storage to increase energy availability and provide backup during grid interruptions.
Explore Solar Systems →Backup Power
Focus on keeping important appliances and circuits running when grid electricity is unavailable.
Assess My Requirements →SOLAR TERMINOLOGY
A few terms worth knowing
These are some of the most common terms you'll encounter when comparing solar systems.
kW
A measure of power. In solar systems, inverter capacity is commonly expressed in kilowatts.
kWh
A measure of energy. Battery storage capacity is commonly expressed in kilowatt-hours.
DC
Direct current. Solar panels generate DC electricity.
AC
Alternating current. Most household appliances use AC electricity.
Load
The electrical demand created by appliances, equipment and other devices.
Battery Capacity
The amount of electrical energy a battery can store, normally expressed in kWh.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Find out what your property actually needs.
There is no single solar system that is right for every property. Your electricity usage, appliances, backup requirements and available space all matter.