Everyone focuses on the panels, but a solar system is only as good as the electrical foundation it's built on. Get the wiring and DB board right first, and your solar works properly from day one. Here's what "solar-ready" actually means.
What solar-ready involves
- An essential-loads sub-board so the inverter powers the right circuits during load-shedding
- A DB board in good condition with spare capacity
- Surge protection and correct earthing
Sorting these first makes the solar install cleaner and the system actually work as intended.
Why the DB board often needs work
An old, full or non-compliant board can't integrate an inverter safely or separate essential loads. It's common to do a DB board upgrade as part of going solar.
The essential-loads board explained
This sub-board groups the circuits you want during load-shedding — lights, plugs, Wi-Fi, fridge — so the inverter powers those, not the geyser or oven. Separating essential loads is the difference between a backup that works and one that trips constantly.
Do the electrical first
The foundation should be part of the solar design, not bolted on afterwards. A registered electrician handles it and issues the COC, with grid-tied systems needing SSEG registration. See solar power or get a solar-ready assessment.