SOLAR INVERTER
Inverter 1 phase: 1Kw ~ 8Kw (warranty 5~12 years)
Inverter 3 phase: 5Kw ~ 110Kw (warranty 5~12 years)
Central inverter: 100Kw ~ 1Mw (warranty 5~12 years)
Power optimizer: 370Wp ~ 850Wp (warranty 25 years)
A solar inverter is also called “the brain“ of the solar system. This device will convert the energy captured during the day, from DC to AC, so it can be used for consumption. The inverter combines digital control technology with efficient power conversion architecture in order to make the most of the energy the panels are collecting. You can choose from grid-tie or off-grid inverters. ”Smart inverters” are being developed with forecasting algorithms, load/demand planning and so on. In addition, smart inverters can be “told” whether to use photovoltaic energy or not, send power to batteries to store it, or save you in case of a power blackout.
String inverters
Solar panels are installed in rows, each on a “string.” For example, if you have 25 panels you may have 5 rows of 5 panels. Multiple strings are connected to one string inverter. Each string carries the DC power the solar panels produce to the string inverter where it’s converted into usable AC power consumed as electricity. Depending on the size of the installation, you may have several string inverters each receiving DC power from a few strings.
Central inverters
Central inverters are similar to string inverters but they are much larger and can support more strings of panels. Instead of strings running directly to the inverter, as with string models, the strings are connected together in a common combiner box that runs the DC power to the central inverter where it is converted to AC power. Central inverters require fewer component connections but require a pad and combiner box. They are best suited for large installations with consistent production across the array.
Power optimizer
Power optimizers offer many of the same benefits as microinverters but tend to be slightly less expensive. Power optimizers are often considered a compromise between more expensive micro-inverters and the standard string inverter.
Like microinverters, power optimizers are located at each panel, usually integrated into the panels themselves. However, instead of converting the DC electricity to AC electricity at the panel site, they “condition” the DC electricity and send it to a string inverter. This approach results in higher system efficiency than a string inverter alone.
Similar to microinverters, power optimizers reduce the impact of panel shading on system performance, and also offer panel performance monitoring. Systems that use optimizers are typically more affordable than those that use microinverters.