A microinverter is, like its name indicates, a mini inverter. It is attached to individual panels instead of a string of modules, rather than a string of solar modules. So, you will likely see as many microinverters as there are panels.
One of the advantages of having a microinverters system is that the output of each panel is completely independent of each other. This means that if a fault occurs in one panel, the rest of the solar panels are not affected and continue performing to their fullest.
The microinverters system also makes it easier to perform panel-level monitoring. When faults occur, they are identifiable to a single point, as opposed to an entire string. This not only makes fault isolation easier but unmasks minor problems that might not otherwise become visible.
Unlike string inverters, the conversion from DC to AC current occurs on the panel level. This means that there is no high-voltage current travelling through your system, causing potential fire hazards.
Versatile
Panels can be installed on different pitches and orientations – handy for awkwardly shaped roofs and small houses. You can also upgrade your system without having to upgrade your inverter.
Flexible
If shade, snow, hail damage or any other incident covers one or more panels – or even if one or more panels suffer a complete failure – Enphase microinverters work so you don’t experience an equivalent drop in output from the whole system.
High Performance
Each microinverter harvests the maximum amount of power from the module to which it is connected, whereas in a string inverter system the power drops to the power of the lowest-performing panel. This allows you to take advantage of positive power tolerance, which you get in high-quality panels.
Reliable
If one string inverter fails, your entire system is out. If one Enphase microinverter fails, one panel is out. There is no single point of failure. This means no full system outages and higher system availability.
Safe
On top of this, Enphase microinverters are much safer. They don’t carry high voltage power – they max out at the voltage one panel carries – they’re smaller in size, the system is simpler to design and much easier to monitor, service or replace.
Robust
By keeping the panels at a low DC voltage, they reduce the chance of PID – Potential Induced Degradation – which is caused by high voltages across the panel and may take 5 to 20 years to show up after installation.
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