Explanation of Differente Types of Solar Inverters - PowMr

Solar inverter is a vital component of a solar power system that converts DC electricity generated by solar panels into AC electricity that can be used to power homes and businesses. As technology advances, the variety of inverters becomes more diverse, enabling bi-directional current conversion(DC to AC/AC to DC).

 

What is solar inverter

A solar inverter is a device that converts the direct current (DC) produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) that can be used to power homes and businesses. It is a crucial component of any solar power system, as it ensures that the electricity generated by the solar panels is compatible with the electrical grid.

 

How do solar inverters work

The process of converting DC to AC is known as inversion, hence the name "inverter."

The latest kind of solar inverter can be connected to the solar panels and the electrical grid. When the solar panels generate DC electricity, the inverter converts it into AC electricity that is then sent to the electrical grid. The inverter also monitors the electrical grid to ensure that the electricity it produces is synchronized with the grid's frequency and voltage.

The operating mode of solar inverter will vary in different solar systems.

 

How many types of solar inverter are there?

For grid-tie system

There are two types of solar inverters: string inverters and microinverters. String inverters are the most common type and are connected to a string of solar panels. Microinverters, on the other hand, are connected to individual solar panels, which allows for greater energy production and monitoring.

It is worth mentioning that grid-tied systems always require pure sine wave inverters, as the utility company provides energy in the form of pure sine waves.

 

String inverter

A string inverter is a device used in photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems to convert the direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) that can be used to power homes or businesses. The term "string" refers to the fact that the inverter is connected to a series of solar panels wired together in a "string" configuration.

In a string inverter system, several solar panels are wired in series to create a higher voltage DC output, which is then fed into the inverter. The inverter converts the DC electricity from the solar panels into AC electricity that can be used by the electrical grid or by on-site electrical loads.

String inverters are typically larger and more powerful than micro-inverters, which are another type of inverter commonly used in PV solar systems. They are also generally less expensive than other types of inverters, making them a popular choice for larger-scale solar installations. However, they do have some limitations, such as reduced efficiency in situations where some of the panels in the string are shaded or not performing optimally.

 

Microinverter

A microinverter is a device that converts the DC (direct current) electricity produced by a single solar panel into AC (alternating current) electricity that can be used by households or businesses. Unlike traditional inverters that are installed at the end of a string of solar panels, microinverters are installed on each panel, allowing for individual panel optimization and increased system efficiency. This also makes it easier to monitor the performance of each panel in the system.

 

Power optimisers

A power optimizer is a device used in grid-tied solar systems that maximizes the output of each individual solar panel by optimizing the DC power they produce. It also ensures that the panels are operating at their maximum efficiency, thereby increasing the overall system efficiency and reducing costs.

 

For off-grid system

Off-grid inverters are designed to convert the DC electricity produced by off-grid solar panels into AC electricity that can be used to power AC appliances and devices. Depending on the waveform of the output current, the inverters can be is generally divided into modified sine wave inverter and pure sine wave inverter.

 

Pure sine wave inverter

These inverters produce a smooth and stable sine wave output, which is similar to the power supplied by the utility grid. They are ideal for powering sensitive electronics and appliances, such as computers, TVs, and audio equipment.

 

Modified sine wave inverter

These inverters produce a stepped waveform, which is not as smooth as the pure sine wave output. They are less expensive than pure sine wave inverters and are suitable for powering most household appliances, including fans, lights, and basic electronics.

 

What is hybrid inverter

Hybrid inverter, also known as a solar inverter charger, is capable of operating in both grid-tie and off-grid modes, combining the functions of grid tie inverter, off grid inverter and solar charge controller into a single unit.

They can automatically switch between the two modes depending on the availability of power from the grid, the solar panels or the batteries.

For off-grid systems, hybrid inverter play a role of converting DC power from solar panels to AC power for use in households or businesses. It also charges batteries, allowing for the storage of excess energy to be used during periods of low solar generation.

In a grid tie system, hybrid inverter works in conjunction with an AC power source, such as a grid connection or a backup generator, to charge batteries or provide power to the home or business during times of high energy demand or low solar production.

Additionally, with the permits and approvals of the relevant regulatory agencies and the grid operator, some hybrid inverters can even feed excess power generated by the off-grid system back into the utility grid for a credit, if the batteries are fully charged and there is still excess solar energy available. This feature is known as "grid-tie with battery backup" and it is very useful for homes or businesses that want to be self-sufficient or have a backup power source in the event of a power outage.

 

How to pick the right type of solar inverter

Choosing the right type of solar inverter is crucial for the overall performance and efficiency of a solar power system. Here are the steps to pick the right type of solar inverter:

• Step1. Determine the type of solar power system

  Determine whether the system will be grid-tied, off-grid or hybrid solar system. Hybrid inverters are ideal for systems that require both grid-tied and off-grid functionality and battery backup.

 

• Step2. Evaluate the solar panel configuration

  Evaluate the solar panel configuration, including the number of solar panels and their arrangement. This will help determine whether a string inverter or microinverter is the best option.

 

• Step3. Consider the power output

  Consider the power output required for the system. This will help determine the appropriate size of the inverter needed for the system.

 

• Step4. Evaluate the efficiency

  Evaluate the efficiency of the inverter. This is important for maximizing the energy production and reducing energy costs.

 

• Step5. Consider the type of wave output

  Consider the type of wave output required for the system, if you are planning to build an off-grid solar system. Pure sine wave inverters are ideal for sensitive electronics, while modified sine wave inverters are suitable for basic electronics.

 

By following these steps, it is possible to choose the right type of solar inverter for a solar power system, ensuring maximum efficiency and energy production.