Microinverters or String Inverters?

The efficiency of your solar PV system depends on the type of inverters used, whether microinverters or string inverters. Although solar panels are crucial, it is the inverters that are the key to maximising the output of a solar PV system. So, to optimise the performance of your solar PV system, selecting the right type of inverter is essential. 

An inverter’s primary purpose is to convert the electricity produced by solar panels from Direct Current (DC) to Alternating Current (AC) so that it can be utilised for powering your home.

Microinverter vs String Inverter: What’s the difference?

Microinverters and string inverters differ primarily in their location and timing of converting DC energy to AC energy.

String inverter is mounted on a building and converts the electrical currents from all solar panels in a central location, whereas microinverters are smaller and mounted on the back of the solar panels where they convert the direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) at the source, making microinverters a much safer option. They operate independently, ensuring that shading of one panel does not affect the others. Hence, using microinverters are essential for optimising the energy output for your property’s electricity usage.

Pictured above, with a microinverter setup, only the affected solar panel’s output is affected when there is shading as compared to the string inverter, the production of the entire PV system is determined by the performance of the panel with the lowest output

Microinverters also allow for adding of more panels later if your energy requirements increase. Traditional string inverters require a second inverter for system expansion, resulting in increased expenses and potential difficulties in future panel additions.

Lastly, using our Solaroo app, you will be able to access your data and monitor your solar PV system in real time. Find out more about how your solar PV system will work here. Or get a proposal for your home by submitting the form here.