Panels, inverters and cables, explained
A plain-language reference to the components in a rooftop solar system, and the brands commonly available and serviced in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
Panel technologies at a glance
| Technology | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Mono PERC | The current standard for most rooftop installations. Commercial efficiency of roughly 21–22.8%, a strong balance of cost and performance. |
| TOPCon | A newer cell design that captures more light on the rear of the cell. Commercial efficiency of roughly 24-25.5%, with better heat tolerance, useful in a hot climate like Tirupati's. |
| Bifacial | Generates from both the front and rear of the panel, picking up light reflected off the roof or ground. Can add 5–30% more output depending on how it's mounted, though gains vary a great deal by installation. |
| Half-Cut Cell | Cells are cut in half, which cuts resistive losses and gives roughly a 1–2% efficiency gain over a standard full-cell panel of the same type. Common on Mono PERC and TOPCon panels alike. |
DCR vs. non-DCR: why it matters for subsidy
DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) panels use solar cells and modules both manufactured in India. Government schemes including PM Surya Ghar require DCR panels for subsidy eligibility. A non-DCR panel forfeits the subsidy entirely, even if it costs a little less upfront.
| Panel type | Classification | Subsidy eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Cells and modules made in India | DCR (Domestic Content Requirement) | Required for PM Surya Ghar and most state subsidy schemes |
| Imported cells, or a fully imported panel | Non-DCR | Not eligible for government subsidy, though sometimes lower upfront cost |
Which inverter type do you need?
On-grid (string)
Sends the power your panels generate straight to your home and the grid through a net meter. No battery. The simplest and most common setup for homes and businesses without a backup requirement.
Hybrid
Adds a battery to an on-grid setup. Keeps selected circuits (lights, fans, essential equipment) running during a power cut, while still exporting surplus power to the grid when the battery is full. This is what we recommend for most homes and businesses that want backup power.
What's behind the panel
Solar cable, protection boxes and earthing matter as much as the panels. They're what keeps a system safe for 25 years, not just the first one.
| Component | Typical spec | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DC solar cable | 4 sq.mm (most residential strings) | Single-core copper, double-insulated XLPO, rated 1000–1500V DC. Built to IS 17048 and IEC 62930 for outdoor UV and heat resistance. |
| DC solar cable | 6 sq.mm (longer runs / higher current) | Same construction as above, used where string length or current draw calls for a larger conductor. |
| AC wiring | As specified by the inverter and site load | Standard PVC/FRLS house wiring from the inverter to your distribution board, sized to the inverter's AC output and local wiring rules. |
A complete installation also includes a DC isolator switch, AC/DC protection boxes with surge protection, and proper earthing, the same components you can see in a neat installation on our Residential page.
What's available and serviced in Andhra Pradesh & Tamil Nadu
Widely available, well-serviced brands in the Indian rooftop solar market. We'll confirm the exact make for your system during the site visit, based on what fits your roof and budget.
Solar panels
Inverters
Cables & wiring
Not sure what your roof needs?
We'll recommend the right panel, inverter and system size after a site visit, no guesswork.