When it comes to solar energy systems, choosing the right type of inverter can be a daunting task. An inverter is an essential component that converts direct current (DC) electricity produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used by your home or business. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of solar inverters and provide a step-by-step guide on how to choose the right one for your solar energy system.

What are the Types of Solar Inverter?

1. For grid-tie system

A grid-tie system is a solar energy system that is connected to the utility grid. This type of system requires a grid-tie solar inverter that can synchronize the solar energy produced by the solar panels with the electricity grid.

a. String inverter

A string inverter is a common type of solar inverter used in grid-tie systems. It connects multiple solar panels in series to form a string, which is then connected to the inverter. The inverter converts the DC electricity produced by the solar panels into AC electricity that can be used by your home or business.

b. Microinverter

A microinverter is a type of solar inverter that is installed on each solar panel. It converts the DC electricity produced by each solar panel into AC electricity that can be used by your home or business. Microinverters are ideal for installations with shading or different orientations.

c. Power optimisers

Power optimisers, also known as ordinary inverters are similar to microinverters in that they are installed on each solar panel. However, instead of converting DC to AC electricity, they optimize the power output of each panel and send it to a central inverter. Power optimisers are ideal for installations with shading or different orientations.

2. For off-grid system

An off-grid system is a solar energy system that is not connected to the utility grid. This type of system requires an off-grid solar inverter that can convert DC electricity produced by solar panels into AC electricity that can be used by your home or business.

a. Pure sine wave inverter

A pure sine wave inverter is a type of solar inverter that produces a clean and stable AC output that is similar to the electricity supplied by the utility grid. It is ideal for sensitive electronics and appliances.

b. Modified sine wave inverter

A modified sine wave inverter is a type of solar inverter that produces a less stable AC output than a pure sine wave inverter. It is less expensive than a pure sine wave inverter but may not be suitable for sensitive electronics and appliances.

3. What is a hybrid inverter?

A hybrid inverter is a type of solar inverter that can be used in both grid-tie and off-grid systems. It can synchronize with the utility grid and also has a built-in battery charger that can charge batteries from solar panels or the grid. Hybrid inverter chargers are ideal for installations that require backup power during utility outages.

How to Pick the Right Type of Solar Inverter?

Step 1: Determine the total power

The first step in selecting the right solar inverter is to determine the total power consumption of your home or business. This will help you determine the size of the solar energy system needed and the appropriate inverter size. You can calculate a rough value, which is generally 1.2 to 1.4 times the total power of the home.

Step 2: Check the VA rating

The VA rating of the solar inverter should be equal to or greater than the total power consumption of your home or business. This will ensure that the solar inverter can handle the load and prevent overload or damage.

Step 3: Find the correct battery

If you are installing an off-grid solar energy system or a hybrid solar energy system with battery backup, you will need to select the correct type and size of battery. The battery should be compatible with the solar inverter and provide enough storage capacity to meet your energy needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of solar inverter is crucial to the performance and efficiency of your solar energy system. By understanding the different types of solar inverters and following the simple steps outlined in this blog post, you can select the right solar inverter for your home or business and reap the benefits of renewable energy.