Purchasing a Solar Panel System: What Do I Need to Know?

At OptimaSolar, we only work with Tier 1 manufacturers to ensure top-quality performance and reliability. The solar panel brands we use include Longi Solar, Jinko Solar, DMEGC Solar, JA Solar, and Luxor Solar. Currently, the most commonly used panels have a capacity of 410 to 445 Wp. These panels typically measure 1762 mm in length, 1134 mm in width, and 30 mm in thickness.

Our selection includes:

• Full black panels
• Black-white panels
• Glass-glass panels
• Bifacial panels

Want to know more about the differences? Read on to discover the unique characteristics of each panel type!

There’s no such thing as a solar panel system without an inverter — it’s an essential component. Solar panels generate direct current (DC), but your home uses alternating current (AC). That’s where the inverter comes in: it converts the energy into usable power for your household.

In most traditional systems, a central inverter is installed inside the home — often in the attic or garage. This inverter collects the energy from all the panels (typically connected in series or with optimizers) and converts it into AC power. While reliable and efficient, the system’s performance can be affected if one panel underperforms due to shade, dirt, or damage.

Prefer not to have a large inverter indoors? Then micro-inverters are a great alternative. Each panel has its own small inverter installed underneath it. This setup comes with several advantages:

• No need for a central inverter inside your home — saving space.
• The system functions in parallel, so if one micro-inverter fails or a panel is shaded, the rest continue working efficiently.
• Better performance in varied conditions (like partial shading or different panel orientations).

Micro-inverters offer more flexibility and consistent output, especially for complex roof layouts or environments with some shade.

On sloped (pitched) roofs, solar panels are securely mounted using a combination of specialized components:

• Roof or truss hooks – These are fastened behind the tile battens (lathing) to provide a solid anchor point.

• Mounting rails – Attached to the hooks, these form the base structure for the panels.

• Module clamps – Used to secure the solar panels to the rails.

• End caps – Provide a clean finish and extra protection.

In situations where it’s not possible to fix hooks behind the battens, we use tension hooks, which are screwed directly into the roof structure for a strong and stable alternative. This method ensures your solar installation is both safe and built to last, even on more challenging roof types.

Installing solar panels involves more than many people realize — and safety is a top priority. It’s essential that the working environment for installers is properly secured to prevent accidents. Unfortunately, we sometimes see news reports of things going wrong during solar panel installations. That’s why OptimaSolar always works according to strict safety protocols. For roof work, we use: RSS fall protection – a sturdy safety cage mounted under the gutter that fully supports the wall, scaffolding and safety harnesses. These measures help ensure that our team can work safely at height, protecting both our installers and your property. Safety first — always.

It’s not uncommon for us to encounter older fuse boxes or outdated components during installations. However, with a solar panel system, energy is not only consumed — it is also fed back into the grid. This puts extra demand on the fuse box, making safety and compliance even more important. That’s why we at OptimaSolar always carry out a thorough inspection of the existing fuse box before installation.

Our electricians are all NEN 1010 certified, meaning they meet the highest standards for electrical safety. Some even hold a seal authorization, which allows them to legally break and replace the grid operator’s seals — a clear sign of their professionalism and expertise.

Would you like a quote for solar panels on your roof or have questions about your fuse box or installation? Fill in your details, and we’ll get in touch with you soon!