Microinverter

Microinverter Definition:

A device used with solar arrays to convert the energy that is generated (Direct Current) to usable electricity for a home (Alternating Current). Each micro-inverter is connected to a single solar panel for maximum control and reliability.

Breaking Down Microinverters:

A solar micro-inverter is one of two types of inverters that can be used with a home solar system. Microinverters have several advantages over conventional inverters, called string inverters. String inverters are connected to multiple solar panels in a row, or string, and converts all the incoming DC energy to usable AC energy. Because the microinverter is connected to a single solar panel instead of a string of them, there are a number of benefits to this technology.

Higher Production – More Cost-Effective

Panels experience obstruction at varying levels due to shading from trees, leaves, dirt, and cloudy days. Because microinverters operate independently, each panel can perform to its fullest potential. If one panel is obstructed for any reason, only that panel’s energy production will be affected. That means the solar system produces more solar power and therefore is more cost-effective.

Safer and More Reliable

Because the microinverters are assigned individually to every panel, they convert the DC energy to AC right where it is produced; unlike string converters which are converting the energy at the end of a row of panels. This means there is no high-voltage DC power on your roof that could cause an electrical malfunction.

The independent functionality of the microinverters also creates a more reliable system. There are no single points of failure. If one panel goes down, the rest will stay online producing energy at their maximum capacity. Also, the microinverters can be tracked remotely allowing for issues to be pinpointed and potentially resolved without a site visit.