An important component of any solar power system is the solar inverter. Its primary job is to convert the direct current (DC) electricity produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity most homes use. When sunlight hits the cells in a solar panel, it generates DC electricity. While this is great for capturing solar energy, it’s not directly usable by most household appliances, which rely on AC power. This is where the solar inverter becomes essential—it takes the raw DC energy and converts it into AC power, making it usable for everything in your home, from lighting to appliances.

In addition to powering your home, the solar inverter plays another important role. If your solar panels generate more electricity than you need now, the excess energy doesn’t go to waste. Instead, the inverter helps send that surplus energy back into the electrical grid. This process, often called “net metering,” allows you to essentially “store” the extra electricity for later use. When you draw power from the grid later, it can offset your energy costs, making your system more efficient and cost-effective. The solar inverter, therefore, is not only a key player in converting energy but also in managing how your solar power interacts with the grid to maximise your savings.

Types of solar inverters

Battery Inverters

Battery inverters are designed to convert the power stored in your solar battery into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity your home uses. Instead of sending this energy directly to the grid, battery inverters prioritise feeding the electricity into your home’s switchboard whenever possible. This means that you can use the power stored in your batteries to run your appliances first, reducing the need to draw electricity from the grid.

Central Inverters

Central inverters are much larger than other types and are typically used for industrial-scale solar systems that generate hundreds of kilowatts or even megawatts of power. These massive inverters are ideal for large commercial projects and solar farms, where high volumes of electricity need to be managed. You won’t find central inverters in residential homes, as they’re far too large and powerful for household use.

Hybrid Inverters

Hybrid inverters work with connected batteries using a process known as “DC coupling.” In this setup, both the solar panels and batteries share one inverter, and the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the solar panels is used to charge the batteries via a DC charger. Hybrid inverters are a bit more specialised and aren’t very common in Australia.

Microinverters

Microinverters are small, compact inverters installed on each individual solar panel. This setup allows each panel to operate independently and at its maximum efficiency, even if part of the array is shaded or experiencing reduced sunlight. Microinverters help to optimise energy output on a panel-by-panel basis, making them particularly useful in areas where shading or partial sunlight might be an issue.

String Inverters

String inverters are the most used type in residential solar installations. In a string inverter system, all the solar panels are connected in series, or “strings,” and the power they generate is directed to a single inverter. This type of system is straightforward, cost-effective, and well-suited for homes with consistent sunlight exposure.

Also on the blog – What to do when your solar inverter gets too hot.

Your Solar & Electrical Experts

Established in 2020, Tropical Solar and Electrical Services is a locally owned and operated company servicing homes and businesses throughout Mackay and surrounding areas including Moranbah, Sarina, Proserpine and Rockhampton. Whether it’s power on the roof or within the property, we’ll ensure it’s running as it should. Get in touch with our electrical experts today for a free quote. We’re available 24/7 for your convenience.