Thinking about going solar? It’s a fantastic investment, but it can seem confusing at first. What panels are best? What other “stuff” do you need? And what actually happens on installation day?
We’ve created this simple guide to answer your questions and explain everything you need to know, from the panels on your roof to the power in your outlets.
1. The Solar Panels
This is the part everyone sees. Your panels are your “engine,” and their job is to capture sunlight and turn it into DC (Direct Current) electricity. When shopping for panels, you’ll hear two main terms:
- Tier 1: This is not a measure of quality, but of a company’s financial stability. You should always choose a Tier 1 brand (like Jinko, LONGi,) because it ensures the company will be around to honor its 25-year warranty.
- N-Type vs. P-Type: This is the panel’s technology. N-Type (like TOPCon) is the newer, more efficient technology. It performs much better in the high heat of Pakistan. P-Type (PERC) is the older, more budget-friendly option, but N-Type is the better long-term investment.
2. The Other Key Components
A solar system is more than just panels. Here are the other vital parts that make it all work.
- The Inverter (The “Brain”): This is the most important component. It takes the DC electricity from your panels and converts it into AC (Alternating Current) electricity that your home appliances (like lights, fans, and ACs) can use. For Pakistan, a Hybrid Inverter (like Inverex or Huawei) is the best choice, as it lets you connect to the grid, charge batteries, and provide backup during load shedding.
- Batteries (The “Backup”): If you have a hybrid inverter, you need batteries to store power for nighttime use or for when the grid is down. You can choose between older, cheaper Lead-Acid batteries or modern, long-lasting Lithium-ion batteries.
- Mounting Structure (The “Frame”): This is the high-quality, rust-proof metal frame that securely fastens your panels to your roof. This structure is designed to face the panels for maximum sun exposure and withstand high winds.
- Wires, Breakers, and Boxes: This includes all the high-quality, safety-certified AC/DC wiring, breakers, and DP (Distribution) boxes needed to connect your system safely and protect your home.
3. The Installation Process
So, what happens when you decide to buy? The process is simple and professional.
- Consultation & Survey: First, our team will talk with you about your energy needs (your electricity bill, what appliances you run) and conduct a physical survey of your roof to check its size, direction, and strength.
- Design & Proposal: We will use that information to design a custom system (e.g., a “5kW Hybrid System”) and give you a detailed quote listing all the components.
- Installation Day: Once you approve, our team gets to work. This usually takes 1-3 days. They will install the mounting structure, attach the panels to the frame, and run the wiring down to the inverter and your home’s main DB box.
- Activation (Net Metering): We activate the system and, if you’ve chosen a hybrid or on-grid system, we will help you with the paperwork to apply for “Net Metering.” This is the government program that lets you sell your extra, unused electricity back to the grid for credit on your bill.
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