Updated on November 5, 2025
You’ve reached a point in your solar journey where you feel reasonably confident that you’ll invest in an Enphase microinverter solar system. They’re built to last, and they deliver a great return on investment.
But your sales representative is discussing how we’ll need room around the main switchboard to install something called an iBoard or maybe an IQ Controller. What are those? What do they do?
At PSC Energy, we install microinverter solar systems every day. We understand the ins and outs of componentry and installations. We know how to maximise your hard-earned dollars. An Enphase system offers great financial incentives for your future, so hang in there with your questions about iBoards. We’re here with answers.
In this article, you will learn:
- What is an iBoard?
- Why Do I Need an iBoard?
- How Does an iBoard Save Me Money?
- How Do I Know I’m Getting a Genuine iBoard?
- Does the iBoard Have Any Safety Features?
- How is an iBoard Different from an IQ Controller?
- Who Makes iBoards?
- FAQ: iBoards
By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert in all things componentry related to microinverter solar systems.
What is an iBoard?
iBoards is a company in Wollongong that designs and manufactures a piece of equipment used in the Enphase ecosystem: a solar distribution board.
A solar distribution board houses components that need to be installed in the main switchboard. The iBoard is installed next to the main switchboard. It houses the Enphase Envoy, CTs (current transformers designed to measure the current of a circuit), and relevant isolation devices neatly and effectively.
Now, iBoards emerged because when Enphase first launched, there were several components that didn’t belong on the roof, such as circuit breakers, Enphase envoy, CTs, relays, and other components for large commercial projects.
iBoards realised that some components needed to be integrated into the switchboard. However, in some cases, these components didn’t fit, so installers would use enclosures next to the switchboard.
Michael and his team at iBoards saw a problem with this approach: the finish wasn’t always optimal, with messy wiring being a common issue. They realised that building the board in a controlled environment would result in a better finish for clients and save time on site, ultimately reducing costs.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about Enphase microinverters, you might want to check out the following article titled, Pros and Cons of Enphase Microinverter Solar Systems.
Why Do I Need an iBoard?
Main switchboards are often very cluttered, especially the ones found in older homes. There is often little to no room for mounting the Envoy, the circuit breakers, and the CTs.
All of these things are installed in the iBoard, saving solar installation teams time and money on site.
The Enphase Envoy is an electronic networking device that transmits information about how your system is performing over the Internet to MyEnlighten, the consumption monitoring software you’ll need to track the performance of your microinverter solar system.
iBoards come completely pre-wired with exquisite cable management. The consumption CT cabling is installed to make the connection to that cabling easy and fast. There’s enough room to fit the Envoy inside the iBoard.
It’s built for electricians by electricians.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the cost of an Enphase solar system, you might want to check out the following article titled, How Much Does a Microinverter Solar System Cost?
How Does an iBoard Save Me Money?
At PSC Energy, we charge a flat rate for all our installations. It’s a day rate that will double if the installation is too big for one day. An additional day rate installation charge will increase your upfront cost for the system and extend your payback period.
We like to wrap up an installation all in one day when we can. For that reason, we love working with iBoards.
iBoards are built in a controlled and tested environment. They manufacture their solar distribution boards so companies like us can purchase them pre-assembled with relays and breakers wired up for less time on site, which reduces the installation cost, and saves you in upfront costs.
It’s an incredibly neat product that’s been precisely assembled with their automation processes and machinery. For example, they have a cable-cutting device that consistently cuts and delivers a perfectly cut cable.
That cable is fed to another machine for crimping. There’s consistency in every cut and termination. This is impossible for electricians to achieve on-site.
We trialled iBoards back in 2020 and found that while they may cost a bit more upfront, they save on labour and provide a consistent experience for clients. It’s neat and tidy wiring that’s pre-labelled by a computer.
When our installation teams prepare for the day, there’s a lot to load on the truck to make certain our installation is flawless (as it so often is). Grabbing an iBoard with all the writing enclosed and prepared for connection saves our team time and eliminates the possibility of forgetting any aspect of the componentry.
The entire system is designed to help our electricians save time on-site.
If you’re interested in learning more about how working with an installation company like PSC can save you money and headaches, you might want to check out the following article titled, In-house Installers vs. Subcontractors: Which is Better?
How Do I Know I’m Getting a Genuine iBoard?
Because of their logical, economic design that saves time on-site, iBoards have been widely adopted and installed by Enphase solar installation companies nationwide. In fact, solar distribution boards (which is what iBoards are) have become synonymous with iBoards.
It’s like calling a Bobcat a Bobcat, when it’s actually a Toyota, or referring to an Esky as an Esky, which originated from the first brand to make the cooler box.
The entire Enphase installation industry says that they’re using iBoards. Often, they aren’t. They’re just buying similar components to what iBoards is doing. They don’t have the same level of quality control.
Only genuine iBoards have a sun shield, made with precision on a CNC machine, a tool not commonly found in other solar companies because it costs a quarter of a million dollars. While some wholesalers attempt to replicate iBoards, their products don’t match the same level of quality.
We offer three main models of iBoard:
- Single-phase for up to 22 panels.
- Single-phase for 23 to 26 panels.
- Three-phase for up to 36 panels.
We’ve worked closely with iBoards to improve products, giving them feedback that they’ve taken on board.
For example, a problem we encountered was the harsh Australian sun degrading iBoards mounted directly in sunlight, causing discolouration and deterioration.
To address this, we developed our own sun shield made from ALUCOBOND, a durable material designed to withstand heat. We’re retrofitting these sun shields onto all outdoor iBoards as a solution to this issue. While it’s a downside to iBoards, it’s a problem we’ve overcome with a contingency plan in place.
This is just one way iBoards will work with your installer to customise their product to their needs (and ultimately, yours!).
The durability of an iBoard depends largely on its enclosure. Genuine iBoards use Legrand enclosures, while others may use different styles. We exclusively purchase outdoor-rated and tested boards, suitable for both indoor and outdoor solar systems.
We’ve recently collaborated with iBoards to create commercial boards housed in metal enclosures. For instance, the 100 kilowatt board measures 1,200mm tall by 600mm wide by 250mm deep.
It features a line filter and a clear Perspex door for easy inspection. Our boards include both the normal iBoard and a grid protection unit, all in one.
Additionally, we’ve added a 250 Amp in-line filter to reduce electrical noise from the factory and its machines and appliances, ensuring smooth communication between microinverters and the Envoy.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about what the phrases “single-phase” and “three-phase” mean, you might want to check out the following article titled, Single-Phase vs. Three-Phase: How Are They Different?
Click here for solar solutions!
Does the iBoard Have Any Safety Features?
We’ve integrated surge protection into the commercial iBoards, complete with LED indicators. These protect the solar system from surges or lightning strikes. When they absorb a voltage spike, they trigger an LED indicator, visible when you open the board — a signal that it needs replacement.
Electricians can easily swap out this sacrificial part to restore functionality. Despite this, the system remains operational.
These features enhance the neatness of our installations and offer specific benefits for Enphase systems. We value iBoards for their local manufacturing and innovative approach, making them our go-to choice for Enphase installations.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about how microinverters compare to string inverters from a cost point of view, you might want to check out the following article titled, Cost of Microinverters vs. Cost of String Systems.
How is an iBoard Different from an IQ Controller?
The Enphase IQ Controller is a device that is compulsory for your solar system if you install an Enphase solar battery with your panels on the roof. You do not need an IQ Controller if you don’t have an Enphase solar battery. If you want to install a different type of solar battery, you will still need an iBoard.
An IQ Controller is mounted next to or near the main switchboard. It senses when the grid goes down and makes sure your home transitions from grid power to the battery or solar system, depending on what you have installed.
iBoards has developed a new product, which complements Enphase systems. They’re now offering a fully equipped IQ Controller, complete with circuit breakers and pre-wiring, along with a standardised labelling kit.
This streamlines our installation process and ensures consistency across projects. The finished product is of higher quality and consistency compared to on-site assembly. iBoards remains committed to using genuine Enphase products and assembling them in a consistent manner.
As for incorporating tech from the IQ Controller, iBoards pre-wires much of the electrical work in their factory, simplifying on-site installation. It’s akin to receiving a pre-built computer where most internal components are already in place, requiring only basic setup on-site.
This approach ensures efficiency and maintains quality control, which may not be achievable in a non-factory environment.
If you’re interested in solar batteries, you might want to check out the following article titled, Are Solar Batteries Worth It in NSW? PSC’s Ultimate Guide for 2025.
Who Makes iBoards?
iBoards is a small electrical contracting company based in Port Kembla, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia, owned by our friend Michael and his family. They run a tight-knit family business and specialise in solar installations. They are exclusive Enphase installers and offer air conditioning and general electrical services as well.
The benefits of iBoards lie in its family-oriented approach, supporting Michael and Julia’s vision for their children’s future. Michael created iBoards to ensure his kids would always have a place in the business. This personal touch resonates with us, knowing our support directly impacts their family’s livelihood.
Our relationship with iBoards has been exceptional, with them going above and beyond to assist, even at odd hours. It’s been an incredible long-term relationship we’ve had with them, one that we hope lasts for many more years.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the price of solar batteries, you might want to check out the following article titled, How Much Are Solar Batteries? A Full Breakdown of Prices, Rebates, and Value in 2025.
My Neighbour Gave Me Solar. It Was on the House.
Now you know what iBoards do and how this family business is saving the industry time and money. They work with Enphase and Enphase installers to develop and perfect their componentry.
Using them in our installations has saved our customers thousands of dollars every time we rock up. They’re easy on the eyes as well; we’re suckers for efficiency, but when it’s coupled with a sleek design? Well, how could you resist?
At PSC Energy, we carefully vet our suppliers and make decisions about our partnerships based on how they will best serve our customers. iBoards gives our teams out on the trucks more time on each installation, which saves you money.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the federal solar battery rebate, also known as the Federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program, you might want to check out the following article titled, What the 2025 Federal Election and the Government Rebate Means for Solar Batteries in Australia.
FAQ: iBoards
What is an iBoard?
An iBoard is a solar distribution board made by a company in Wollongong, NSW. It sits next to your main switchboard. It houses the Enphase Envoy, current transformers (CTs), breakers, and isolation devices in one tidy unit.
What does an iBoard do in an Enphase microinverter system?
It gathers the off-roof Enphase parts into a single enclosure. It gives those parts a safe, neat home near the main switchboard. It supports monitoring, protection, and clean wiring.
Why might my home need an iBoard?
Many main switchboards, especially in older NSW homes, do not have room for the Envoy, CTs, and breakers. The iBoard creates the space you need. It helps the installer finish the job cleanly and quickly.
Where is the iBoard installed?
Installers mount the iBoard beside the main switchboard. This location keeps all monitoring and protection gear close to your home’s electrical heart.
What parts go inside an iBoard?
Typical contents include the Enphase Envoy, CTs for consumption monitoring, circuit breakers, relays where required, and isolation devices. Everything is laid out for easy access and service.
How does an iBoard improve installation quality?
The board is built and tested in a controlled factory setting. Cable lengths are precise. Terminations are consistent. Labels are standardised. The result is neat wiring and a professional finish.
How does an iBoard save me money?
It shortens on-site labour time. Faster installs reduce the chance you need a second day on site. That helps avoid extra day-rate charges and keeps your upfront cost down.
Is an iBoard pre-wired?
Yes. iBoards arrive pre-assembled with breakers, relays, and internal wiring done. The CT cabling is set up to make final connections fast. This reduces install time and errors.
Does an iBoard help with consumption monitoring?
Yes. It provides space for CTs and the Envoy. That lets your system report solar production and home usage in the app. You can track performance and spot issues early.
How do I spot a genuine iBoard?
Look for the purpose-made sun shield and the high-quality enclosure. Genuine units use CNC-made parts and consistent, computer-printed labels. The overall build quality is tidy and repeatable.
What are signs I am getting a generic copy of a solar distribution board?
Copies may use mixed components, lack a fitted sun shield, and show messy internal wiring. Labels may be inconsistent. Fit and finish often feel less refined.
Is an iBoard suitable for outdoors in NSW?
Yes. Genuine units use outdoor-rated and tested enclosures. For harsh sun, installers add a dedicated sun shield to protect the board and keep it looking good.
What is the iBoard sun shield and why does it matter?
Strong sun can degrade exposed plastics over time. The sun shield protects the enclosure from heat and UV. It preserves appearance and extends service life for outdoor installs.
What enclosure does a genuine iBoard use?
Genuine iBoards use quality enclosures from established brands. This improves durability, weather resistance, and overall safety.
Are there commercial iBoards?
Yes. There are metal-enclosed boards for larger sites. One example is a 100 kW board measuring about 1200 mm by 600 mm by 250 mm. It can include a grid protection unit and a clear door for inspection.
Do iBoards include safety features?
Commercial boards can include surge protection with LED indicators. When a surge device takes a hit, the LED shows it needs replacement. The rest of the system continues to run.
Will my system stop if the surge protector trips?
No. The surge device is sacrificial. The LED tells an electrician to replace it. Your solar system keeps operating in the meantime.
How is an iBoard different from an Enphase IQ Controller?
An iBoard is a distribution board for wiring, monitoring, and protection parts. The IQ Controller is a control device that manages grid-down events and battery transitions. You need an IQ Controller when you install an Enphase battery.
Do I need an IQ Controller if I do not have a battery?
No. An IQ Controller is required only when you install an Enphase battery with your solar. Without a battery, you do not need one.
How does factory pre-wiring improve iBoard reliability?
Factory assembly uses machines for cutting and crimping. Every cable is the right length, and every termination is consistent. This level of repeatability is hard to match on site.
Can iBoards be customised?
Yes. The maker works with installers to refine designs. Examples include sun shields for heat, line filters for electrical noise, and integrated grid protection for commercial jobs.
Who makes iBoards and where?
A family-run electrical firm in Port Kembla, Wollongong, NSW designs and builds them. They specialise in Enphase systems and bring hands-on installation experience to their designs.
Why do many installers say “iBoard” when it may not be one?
The name has become shorthand for any solar distribution board. Some installers use look-alike products. A genuine unit stands out through enclosure quality, sun shielding, and factory finish.
How should I prepare space for an iBoard near my switchboard?
Keep the wall area around the main switchboard clear. Make sure the location is accessible, out of the weather if possible, and not blocked by shelves or storage. Your installer will confirm clearances.
