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+380 (66) 508-07-64Solar inverters are an essential component of any solar system. These complex technological devices help to turn the direct current (DC) power generated by your solar modules into AC electricity.
An inverter is also that part of your solar system that’s likeliest to fail first. The right choice of solar inverter type for your PV system is important. An inverter has to maximise your system’s production while having a low failure rate and a good warranty. Avenston’s experts explored the main types and brands of solar panel inverters. Let’s dive deeper into this topic.
Types of solar inverters
There are three core solar inverters types: microinverters, string inverters and hybrid inverters:
- Microinverters are small devices located on each solar panel. They convert DC to AC at the solar module level, which means each PV panel can operate independently. This setup ensures the other panels remain unaffected if any one panel is underperforming, perhaps due to shading or dirt. This is particularly beneficial for roofs with complex shapes or orientations, where shading may be an issue. On the other hand, microinverters are more complex to install and are generally more expensive upfront because you need one for each solar panel.
- A string inverter is a single device that serves all the solar modules in your PV array. The solar panels are connected in a series, creating a “string”, and the generated DC is sent to the inverter to be converted into AC. String inverters are more cost-effective than microinverters, as you only need one device per array of solar modules. They’re also easier to maintain and replace when necessary. However, if one panel performs poorly, it can affect the output of the whole string of solar panels connected in a series.
- Hybrid inverters work the same as any other inverter but also handle power exchange with solar battery storage systems and the mains grid (hence the term ‘hybrid’). Choosing a hybrid inverter means that if your solar panels generate more power than you use, the excess energy can be stored in a battery for use later. Although a hybrid inverter has a higher upfront cost and requires a compatible battery system, it is a versatile choice for many PV setups.
Schematic diagram of the connection of a hybrid solar inverter
Choosing the best solar panel inverter
When it comes to selecting the right solar inverter for your setup, there are a few things you need to consider:
- One of the first features to consider is the inverter’s efficiency, typically expressed as ‘European’ or ‘weighted’ efficiency. This rating measures an inverter’s performance under realistic, varying conditions, not just perfect lab scenarios. Inverters usually operate with an efficiency of 95 to 98 per cent, but even minor differences in this figure can significantly affect the system’s long-term output.
- When planning a solar system, you’ll need to consider the power rating of your inverter. This parameter stipulates the maximum load an inverter can handle, effectively defining how much power your system can yield. While selecting an inverter with a significantly higher power rating may seem logical to prepare for possible future solar array expansions, this isn’t usually the best course of action. Instead, industry best practices typically recommend the nominal power of the inverter to approximately 70-90 per cent of the solar panels’ peak power output.
A solar inverter is a crucial device that plays a pivotal role in solar energy systems by converting DC power generated from solar panels into usable AC power for the load. It serves as one of the core components and is considered the most intricate part of solar energy storage. Selecting the right solar inverter holds significant importance. You can also find more information on this topic in our article “Types of Solar Inverters“.
Top global solar inverter manufacturers
We have compiled a list of top global solar inverter manufacturers. These companies offer highly competitive products, providing a range of solar PV devices.
Top Solar Inverter Manufacturers In the World:
- Sungrow Power (China, year founded: 1997)
- Huawei Technologies (China, year founded: 1987)
- Ginlong Technologies, Solis (China, year founded: 2005)
- Growatt New Energy (China, year founded: 2011)
- SMA Solar Technology AG (Germany, year founded: 1981)
- GoodWe (China, year founded: 2010)
You can see and buy the products of all these brands at the Avenston company.
Sungrow Power (China)
Established in 1997, Sungrow Power stands as one of China’s pioneering photovoltaic (PV) companies, with a primary focus on research and development, production, and sales of PV inverters. The company operates in two key areas: power plant investments and power conversion equipment, including PV inverters. In 2011, Sungrow Power achieved a significant milestone by entering the top ten list for global PV inverter shipments. Fast forward to 2022, Sungrow Power emerged as the global leader in the PV inverter market, surpassing all competitors with nearly 8 gigawatts (GW) of shipments. Main Products: String inverters, central inverters, and energy storage inverters.
Huawei Technologies (China)
Huawei Technologies, headquartered in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, is a renowned global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider. The company specializes in ICT infrastructure and smart terminals. Compared to others, Huawei is a “newcomer” to the PV inverter sector, having launched its first PV inverter in 2013 and quickly gaining recognition by entering the top five in the global market the following year. By 2023, it had achieved the coveted position of world market share leader, with global solar inverter shipments reaching 28,000 megawatts in 2022. Main Products: String inverters, central inverters, and smart PV solutions.
Ginlong Technologies, Solis (China)
Founded in 2005, Ginlong Technology Co., Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise centred around the new energy industry. It specializes in the research and development, production, sales, and service of string inverters, which serve as crucial components in photovoltaic power generation systems. Notably, Ginlong holds the distinction of being the first Chinese A-share listed company with string inverters as its primary business segment. Additionally, it holds the distinction of being the world’s first inverter company to obtain the reliability test report from PVEL, a highly regarded third-party authority. Solis is the brand of Ginlong solar inverter. Main Products: String inverters, hybrid inverters, and energy storage inverters.
Growatt New Energy (China)
Established in Shenzhen, China in 2011, Growatt is a prominent company specializing in the design, development, and manufacturing of PV inverters, energy storage systems, and smart energy management systems. It primarily caters to household, commercial, and industrial end-users globally. Within Growatt’s three primary business segments, PV inverters take the lead as the top business segment. In 2022, it generated sales revenue of 3.898 billion yuan, positioning Growatt as the fourth-largest PV inverter supplier in the world. Main Products: String inverters, hybrid inverters, and energy storage inverters.
SMA Solar Technology AG (Germany)
SMA Solar Technology AG, established in 1981 and based in Niestetal, Germany, holds the prestigious position as the world’s leading provider of professional inverter production. In 1987, SMA pioneered the launch of the world’s first PV inverter and has since been a stalwart in the European market for several decades. While SMA had previously held the title of the world’s third-largest inverter supplier, in 2022, companies such as Sungrow Energy, Ginlong Technology, Huawei Technology, and others successfully surpassed SMA in market rankings. Main Products: String inverters, central inverters, and battery inverters.
GoodWe (China)
GoodWe is a comprehensive solution provider with PV inverters at its core. With 13 years of industry experience, the company has been dedicated to the research, development, production, and sales of solar energy, energy storage, and other new energy power equipment. Its products have reached over 100 countries and regions worldwide. GoodWe secured the sixth position in global inverter shipments in 2022. Main Products: String inverters, hybrid inverters, and energy storage inverters.
Summary
Solar inverters are integral to solar power systems, converting DC power from PV cells to usable AC. Whether opting for microinverters, string inverters, or hybrid inverters, each has its benefits and potential drawbacks. It’s also important to consider the efficiency and power rating when choosing an inverter, and how these factors impact the overall performance of your solar system. Remember compatibility and sizing – an inverter must work seamlessly with your solar modules and have the right size to function efficiently.
If you’re unsure how to choose an appropriate inverter, seek professional assistance. Correctly matching and installing your inverter is essential to the overall functionality of the solar system. Avenston will help you choose the best solar inverters for your PV systems. We work with various manufacturers and brands. You can read more about our partners for the supply of inverter equipment on the page “Solar inverters“.
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