The basic building block of a solar module is the solar cell, which converts sunlight into electricity by harnessing a phenomenon called the photovoltaic effect. Here's a video I made explaining how the photovoltaic effect works in simple language: How Do Solar Panels .
Inverters cannot be installed in direct sunlight, as it can cause overheating, run inefficiently, and decrease the lifespan. A solar installer in Newcastle has manufactured purpose-built shade covers to protect customers' inverters from direct sunlight.
The short answer is: it depends on your location, system size, and local lightning activity—but most systems benefit from some level of protection. Lightning damage to solar installations is rare but catastrophic when it occurs.
The importance of battery storage in Germany is steadily increasing. Renewable energy sources now account for around 60 percent of the electricity mix, and further expansion without additional flexibility options - especially energy storage - is unlikely to be feasible.