Solar Balance of System Explained: The hidden components enhancing solar generation

SolarPower Europe’s Balance of System (BOS) report explores the range of technologies, other than solar modules, that underpin PV systems.  

This includes everything required to get electrons effectively from the solar modules to the grid. It includes; the inverters, the brain of a solar system; the mounting structures that secure modules in place and influence when power is generated; and finally, the electrical and cabling components such as wiring and connectors, which when done right, can limit losses and downtime.

Together, BOS makes up 33% of the value of a completed solar project, compared to 31% for solar modules. 

The value it provides is set to rise to enable storage integration, electrification, digitalisation, and to enhance cybersecurity. Novel mounting applications can also unlock agri-PV deployment.

Europe has a strong manufacturing presence across BOS, which the new Solar Balance of System Explained report has mapped out. Europe stands to benefit from the breadth of homegrown innovation to extend the benefits of novel mounting structures, greater system flexibility and deeper digitalisation.

Developing that position further will require a number of steps set out in the report’s policy recommendations.