What Is A Micro Inverter?
A micro inverter is a device used in solar energy systems to convert the direct current (DC) generated by individual solar panels into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity used in most household appliances and the electrical grid. Unlike traditional solar inverters, which are often referred to as string inverters, micro inverters are installed on each individual solar panel, providing a more decentralized approach to solar power conversion.
Here’s how a micro-inverter works:
Panel-level conversion: In a traditional solar energy system with a string inverter, multiple solar panels are connected in series to form a string, and the DC power generated by all the panels in the string is sent to the inverter for conversion to AC power. In contrast, in a system with micro-inverters, each solar panel has its own micro-inverter attached directly to its back, converting the DC power to AC power at the panel level.
Independent operation: With micro inverters, each solar panel operates independently. This means that the performance of one panel does not affect the others. In a string inverter system, the overall output of the string can be limited by the lowest-performing panel in the string.
Monitoring and optimization: Micro inverters often come with built-in monitoring capabilities, allowing system owners to track the performance of individual panels in real time. This feature enables early detection of any issues with specific panels, making maintenance and troubleshooting easier.
Increased energy production: Due to the individual panel-level conversion and optimization, micro inverters can potentially increase the overall energy production of the solar energy system. They can also improve system efficiency by reducing the impact of shading or mismatched panels, as the shaded panel’s output won’t affect the others in the system.
While micro inverters offer several advantages, such as improved performance and monitoring capabilities, they are generally more expensive than string inverters. The decision between using micro inverters or string inverters in a solar energy system depends on various factors, including the system’s size, layout, budget, and specific requirements.
What’s The Difference Between Micro And String Inverters?
The placement of inverters within a solar power system determines whether they are micro or string inverters.
Electrical engineer Kunal Kapoor of RK Solar and Consulting Services explains:
Each panel is linked to the next in a “string” by a string inverter. A single inverter that transforms power from DC to AC receives the current. But with micro inverters, there is a small inverter linked behind each panel that converts the current to AC immediately, as opposed to the DC electricity traveling from the roof down to the meter box.
When using micro-inverters, the ‘translation’ takes place instantly. With string inverters, however, translation doesn’t start until all the power has been gathered. When it comes to the system’s overall performance, this is a little but important distinction.
Are Micro Inverters Better Than String Inverters?
According to Kunal, Micro inverter systems offer the consumer a more redundant system because there is no single point of failure in them. The other primary drawback of micro inverters is that they lack various added features like panel level monitoring, consumption monitoring, and larger warranties. The main disadvantage of string inverters is that a decrease in the efficiency of a single unit (such as a shaded or defective panel) affects the output of the entire string. This is overcome with micro inverters. They are built to operate under less-than-ideal circumstances, allowing for changes without affecting the system’s overall result.
If a panel or a section of the string is shaded in a string inverter system, the efficiency of the entire string is impacted. The lowest power output from each panel is accepted by the inverter. The string is then brought down to that level before being converted, claims Kunal.
Micro inverters outperform string inverters by 9 to 25% even in ideal circumstances.
Enphase Micro Inverters
Enphase Energy, the world’s first manufacturer of microinverters, made history in California when it was founded in March 2006 by Raghu Belur and Martin Fornage. The World’s First microinverter system was introduced in June 2008, marking the beginning of their innovative adventure. By the end of 2022, Enphase will have installed over 2 million Enphase systems globally and shipped over 42 million inverters, according to their website, demonstrating their outstanding track record.
Enphase celebrated its NASDAQ launch in 2012 and expanded its global reach by joining the Australian market. Enphase’s ethos is centered on innovation.
Enphase’s emphasis on innovation has paid off, as the company is expected to have 365 patents worldwide by the end of 2022.
Enphase’s headquarters are in Melbourne, Victoria, which further establishes its position in the international renewable energy market.
Enphase Inverters: Distinctive Features Enphase is a well-known and reputable firm in the solar energy industry, particularly for its tiny inverters. They are at the top of the inverter sector due to their reputation for superior quality. Several unique aspects distinguish Enphase micro inverters:
1. Compatibility with Different Types of Solar Panels: Enphase micro inverters are incredibly adaptable. They are made to function flawlessly with a variety of solar panel models and brands. Enphase micro inverters can be paired with nearly any type of solar panel available on the market because to this interoperability, which maximizes system efficiency and design.
2. Advanced Monitoring Capabilities: Enphase microinverters offer a number of benefits, but their improved monitoring system is one of the biggest. Individual solar panels can be monitored with Enphase systems, in contrast to older systems that only track the total output. This fine-grained level of information facilitates prompt defect detection and resolution, guaranteeing the solar system’s longevity and optimum performance.
Enphase’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction in the renewable energy field is seen in its focus on compatibility, enhanced monitoring, and extended warranty coverage, which position its micro-inverters as a premium alternative for solar system installations.
You probably decided to install solar panels because you want to have more control over the energy you produce and use. Even more, control is available when using micro-inverters. Enphase microinverters, which RK Solar & Consulting Services sells, offer peace of mind for those who want to monitor both their energy usage and the performance of each of their panels. Because it’s online, you can monitor your system’s energy production and consumption in real-time using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Knowing what your system is doing at any one time is a great tool for maximizing the benefits of solar power, according to Kunal.
You may optimize your daily energy consumption by knowing when you’re most likely to use the most energy or when your system is producing the most energy.
Linking Inverters And Solar Batteries
The future of solar electricity lies in batteries. They enable you to save solar energy that you aren’t utilizing now for use at a later time. ‘Battery-ready’ status for micro inverters is a feature from the beginning. With the Enphase system, you can upgrade your system with batteries whenever it’s convenient for you without having to buy any additional hardware. access in contact with our helpful team today to learn more about the solar panel solutions offered by RK Solar and Consulting Services or to learn how to access more specific information from your Enphase micro inverter system. You need a solar system.
Need a solar system for your home or business? Give us a call at 1800-338-809 or email us at info@rksolar.net
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Head Office
Unit 21/6 Gladstone Rd, Castle Hill NSW 2154
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1800 338 809
Email Us
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Contact Us
Head Office
Unit 21/6 Gladstone Rd, Castle Hill NSW 2154
Victoria Office
34 Chartwell Drive, Wantirna Victoria 3152
Phone Inquiry
1800 338 809
Email Us
info@rksolar.net