Solar Inverters
Solar Panel output Direct Current (DC). As DC electricity is not compatible with common household appliances nor fed into the mains grid, it first needs to be converted to Alternating Current (AC). The conversion is performed by Solar Inverters also known as grid tied inverters.
A Solar Inverter is part of the Balance of System (BOS) which comprises of all the solar PV components other than the solar panels. This includes wiring, mounting structures, power conditioners and other components which help manage the AC load and balances the DC(direct current) generation by the solar panels.
Different Types Of Solar Inverters
- Grid Tied Inverters
- Off-grid Inverters
- Grid interactive or Hybrid Inverters
- Micro Inverter or Optimizers
Grid Tied Inverters
These inverters are used with the Grid-tied PV systems where the Solar PV system is integrally connected to the grid power.
In this system, the inverters convert Direct current generated by the solar panels to Alternating current (AC) equivalent to the voltage of the grid power. The power generated is fed to the building or grid using a bidirectional interface set at the distribution panel.
Off Grid Inverters
These inverters are used in the case of Off Grid Solar PV systems where PV systems are completely disconnected from the grid power.
Here the inverters work like the normal power Inverters used at home which convert grid power (AC) to DC (Direct Current) for battery power backup and when there is a grid failure converts DC to usable AC power for power consumption.
Hybrid Inverters
This type of system is a combination of grid tied and Off-grid systems which supply power from solar to the grid and use the battery backup for power storage.
Microinverters:
These can be looked as distributed inverters compared to String or Central inverters. These are installed for individual solar panels which convert DC to AC. Using this kind of a system one can also monitor the performance of individual panels.
- Panel level MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking)
- Increase system availability – a single malfunctioning panel will not have such an impact on the entire array
Power Optimizers:
These are a mix of Central and micro inverters. They are fitted to the individual solar panels to condition Direct current generated from the solar panel and are directed to a central inverter.
Conclusion
With so many solar inverters in the market, it goes without saying you need be aware of the intricacies involved in buying Solar inverters. Make use of the facts, tips and techniques covered in this article to help choose a quality solar inverter.
You now understand what are the different types of solar inverters and what best fits the requirements. Got any questions or thoughts about Solar inverters, please feel free to leave your comments.
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Solar Energy Company in Trivandrum, Kerala
