What are solar microinverters?

Microinverters are small electronic devices that convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). One microinverter could fit the palm of your hand. The main factor differentiating microinverters from traditional inverters is that they operate at the panel level rather than the solar panel system as a whole.

How do microinverters work?

Microinverters convert the electricity from your solar panels into usable electricity. Unlike centralized string inverters, which are typically responsible for an entire solar panel system, microinverters are installed at the individual solar panel site.

Can a microinverter power a solar system in the UK?

Fun fact that you might already be aware of: the UK isn’t the world’s sunniest destination - sometimes it might even rain. Since solar panels that use microinverters are essentially mini-solar systems, they can start to generate electricity in low light (requiring just 22 volts).

What kind of inverter do solar panels use?

It’d be the equivalent of putting raw oil in your car and wondering why you’ve got so many problems running it. There are two main types of inverters used in solar panel systems - traditional string inverters (also sometimes called central inverters) and newer microinverters.

How efficient are microinverters?

Just like solar panels, microinverters have varying efficiencies. An inverter's efficiency measures energy losses during the conversion from DC to AC electricity. The more efficient the microinverter, the more solar electricity production.

Should I use a microinverter or string inverter for my solar system?

A common decision you’ll have to make when designing your custom solar system is whether to use microinverters or string inverters. The basic function of an inverter is to change the Direct Current (DC) power generated by your solar panels to Alternating Current (AC) that can be used to power your home.