Solar Accessories Explained

Last reviewed: October 2026

Panels, an inverter and batteries are the headline items, but a safe and durable system also depends on the supporting accessories.

PV cable

Solar (PV) DC cable is built for sunlight, heat and weather exposure and is double-insulated. Use cable sized for your string current and run length; undersized cable wastes energy and can overheat.

MC4-type connectors

Weatherproof connectors that join panels and cables. Use matching connectors and proper crimping tools — mixing brands or poor crimps are a common cause of failures.

DC isolator, fuses and breakers

These let you switch off and protect the DC side. Choose items rated for DC and for the maximum system voltage; AC breakers are not a substitute.

AC breakers and distribution

Protect the inverter output and your loads. Ratings should match the inverter's output current and your wiring.

Surge protection (SPD)

Surge protection devices help limit damage from voltage spikes and nearby lightning. They are usually fitted on both the DC and AC sides.

Earthing

A proper earth connection for the panel frames, structure and inverter is essential for safety and protection.

Combiner box

Combines multiple strings and houses fuses or breakers and surge protection in one enclosure.

Mounting structure

Holds the panels at the right angle and must be corrosion-resistant and strong enough for wind loads. Galvanised steel and aluminium are common.

Battery cables, busbars and lugs

Battery connections carry high current; use correctly sized cables, lugs and a battery-rated breaker or fuse.

Next steps

Browse solar accessories or send us your system layout and we will help you prepare a complete list. For the main components see the sizing basics.