Unboxing the Types Of Solar Inverters

The solar systems have taken the world by storm. It is emerging as one of the most used renewable energy sources. Installing a solar system is more beneficial today than ever. If you want to make the most out of your solar energy, you will need a good solar inverters. It is one of the most important parts of the system.

But what is it, and what are its three types? Let’s answer these questions in this detailed guide!

What Is a Solar Inverter?

A solar inverter is the brain of a solar system. It transforms the solar input into electrical energy. These inverters come in different types and sizes. Generally, the right option can vary depending on your needs.

Now, the question is, how does a solar inverter work? Let us explain this to you in a simple way.

Our solar panels consist of solar cells that produce DC energy when the sunlight strikes them. As a result, they create movement with DC energy that is not usable in homes because most places use AC energy. Thus, an inverter takes this DC energy and converts it into AC, making it usable for our residential, industrial, and commercial buildings.

Types Of Solar Inverters

A solar inverter can be categorised into various types. However, the three essential ones are the following:

1. Grid-Tied Inverters
2. Hybrid Inverters
3. Micro Inverters

Let’s discuss each type in detail.

1.   Grid-Tied Inverters

A grid-tied inverter converts DC into AC energy. It works with your house’s main electrical power source. After absorbing DC energy from the solar panels, a grid-tied inverter checks it. It turns it into AC energy if it is sufficient to power your home. But the system switches back to grid energy if that isn’t enough.

In other words, it utilizes an intelligent system to monitor incoming power. A grid-tied inverter is common in households because of its effectiveness and safety. Another benefit is its synchronization between the output voltage and grid frequency. Additionally, these inverters are comparatively less expensive than off-grid ones.

2.   Hybrid Inverters

A hybrid inverter combines the powers of solar panels, solar batteries, and your main grid simultaneously. It is an intelligent device that resides in both solar and battery inverters in a single component. Moreover, it handles the constantly-varying DC electricity stored in a solar battery. It converts that energy into AC, making it usable for your homes.

A hybrid solar inverter is an upgrade to the conventional grid-tie version. It performs various functions, like power monitoring, maximization, and transformation. As a result, you get better battery storage and management. While a hybrid inverter’s installation is comparatively expensive, it is worth it because of its efficient solar energy utilization.

3.   Micro Inverters

Solar micro-inverters can connect to a single solar panel. Their primary function is similar, converting DC into AC energy. However, one micro-inverter only handles one solar panel. It works on the simple “plug-and-play” mechanism, allowing you to install and combine multiple micro-inverters to the main grid.

The primary benefit of micro-inverters is flexibility. For instance, you don’t have a strong initial budget. You can start with one inverter and solar panel and expand the system later. Moreover, it has fewer chances of failure because an error will not affect all the micro-inverters simultaneously. Combining the power of multiple inverters and panels, you can optimize your output energy. That is why this system is ideal for small to medium households.

How to Choose the Right Solar Inverter?

Now, which solar inverter is the best for your needs? Well, there is no short answer to this question. You can find the better option by reviewing your requirements and budgets. Here are the strengths of each inverter to give you a clearer picture:

• Hybrid Inverters: Suitable for areas where the climate isn’t always sunny as they can store energy in their batteries.
• Grid-Tied Inverters: Ideal for people who want to combine solar energy and grid power for increased reliability and effectiveness.
• Micro-Inverters: Best for households who only want to power limited appliances and have a constrained budget.

Conclusion

And that’s all you need to know about these three types of solar inverters. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses. Moreover, each one comes in a different price range. Hence, the key to choosing the best system is understanding your needs. Do you need this system for your commercial or residential place? Also, do you want to utilize the maximum energy? Such questions will help you pick the solar inverter that fits your needs.