Get Started with Solar Education

Start here. This module explains how silicon-based solar cells convert photons into electrical current, how individual cells combine into panels, and how panels are arranged into a system. We cover the difference between direct current (DC) produced by panels and alternating current (AC) used in your home, and why that distinction matters for understanding the rest of the system.

By the end, you'll understand what an installer means when they talk about system capacity, panel orientation, and string configuration. You won't need to calculate anything, but you'll know what the numbers represent.

The inverter is the brain of a photovoltaic system. This module explains what inverters do, the difference between string inverters and microinverters, and when each approach makes sense. We also cover how your electricity meter works in a solar context, what net-billing means in Poland's current regulatory framework, and what the grid connection process actually involves.

Understanding metering and grid rules is particularly important because they directly affect the economics of your installation. Many buyers don't learn this until after they've signed a contract.

Battery storage is increasingly common in proposals, but it isn't always the right addition. This module explains the different battery chemistries available (lithium iron phosphate vs. other lithium variants), what capacity ratings actually mean in daily use, and how to calculate whether storage improves your economics or simply adds cost.

We also cover what questions to ask about battery warranties, cycle life guarantees, and what happens to the battery system when the grid goes down. Some systems provide backup power automatically; others don't, even if they have a battery.

Polish subsidy programs, VAT rates on solar installations, and available financing options change over time. This module provides a framework for understanding the economic case rather than a fixed set of numbers. You'll learn how to read a payback calculation, what assumptions to question, and which factors are most sensitive to change.

For small business owners, there's a dedicated section on VAT recovery, depreciation treatment, and the difference between residential and commercial grid tariff structures. These distinctions can significantly affect whether an installation makes economic sense.

This is where the previous four modules come together. We provide a structured set of questions to bring to any installer meeting, organized by category: technical specification, company qualifications, warranty terms, contract details, and post-installation support. Each question comes with an explanation of what a thorough answer looks like.

You'll also find guidance on comparing quotes across different installers, understanding what's included in an installation price, and recognizing when a proposal is missing information that should be there.