Three Types of Inverters: How Do Solar Inverters Work?

A solar inverter is one of the most vital components of a solar structure. The inverter converts the energy generated by solar panels into consumable electricity form used in residential or commercial properties. Most home appliances run on alternating current not on direct current. It is the reason why solar inverters must change the direct current output collected by the solar panels.

Technically, the sun shines on your photovoltaic cells (solar panels), designed with semiconductor layers of crystalline silicon. The layers absorb the light and generate an electric current, commonly referred to as direct current. This electrical current is then sent to the inverter where it is transformed into alternating current; electrical power useable in homes and commercial properties.

Types of Solar Inverters

When buying a solar system, you will find 3 options: off-grid and grid-tied and hybrid inverters. You must choose a suitable system among them. This is because each type of system has its advantages and disadvantages. A choice of a suitable solar inverter can greatly impact equipment efficiency, installation costs, etc. Let’s explore the three options.

Off-Grid Inverter

An off-grid inverter works alone and does not work with the grid. The off-grid solar inverter draws energy from the battery, transforms it from DC to AC output. This inverter allows you to be independent of the grid and can be installed in locations where access to the utility grid is not possible. Off-grid solar systems are energy self-sufficient, and power outages on the utility grid will not affect them.

Grid-Tied Solar Inverter

A Grid-Tie inverter supplements your mains utility power with solar power. This inverter supplements the mains utility with the solar power by synchronising the two power sources. The advantage of this system is that you can drastically reduce your mains utility bill through solar power.

This type of system unfortunately does not function if it does not have mains electricity to synchronise with and therefore cannot be used as a backup system. If you're looking to cut costs and have a backup option consider the type below.

Hybrid Inverter

This inverter is a hybrid between the traditional grid-tied inverter and off-grid inverter. During normal operation the hybrid inverter synchronizes with your mains utility power and supplements your power usage using the solar power during the day. In addition to this cost saving, batteries are used to supplement your usage during the evening.

The solar hybrid inverter will first use the solar power, if the demand exceeds the solar power it will supplement it with mains utility power. If the solar power exceeds the power demand the excess power is used to charge batteries. Solar Hybrid Inverters offer a great value for money as well as a backup solution during power outages, load shedding or faults.

Summary

Every home and residential property has different solar needs. A good way to determine what solar inverter you need is to calculate the amount of energy you would ordinarily require. With a quality solar panel inverter, there is almost no limit to what you can do with the power. It is always advisable to seek professional help if you need to consult or make a purchase.

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