What Is A Solar Inverter And How Does It Function?

In any solar system, the inverter functions as the brain. The main goal is to convert the DC electricity generated by the solar array into AC electricity. As a result, a solar power system's inverter is a must-have component. It allows system operators to see how the system is performing by allowing them to monitor it. According to Microtek, the best solar company in India, one of the most important considerations when installing a solar panel system for your home is the type of solar inverter to use. Inverters transform direct current (DC) energy from solar panels into usable alternating current (AC) energy. After the panels, inverters are the most important piece of equipment in a solar power system. The inverter provides analytical data to assist in identifying system operations and maintenance issues.

What is a Solar Inverter, and how does it work?

A solar inverter is a device that converts the irregular DC (direct current) output of a solar panel into an AC (alternating current) output (alternating current). This current can be used in a working electrical grid or an off-grid electrical network for a variety of purposes. The usage of common AC-powered gear is a dangerous BOS (balance of system) component in a PV system. With PV arrays, these inverters offer features like maximum PowerPoint tracking and anti-islanding protection. Then installing a solar system for a home, the inverter must be carefully chosen and installed. As a result, a solar power system's inverter is a must-have component.

The inverter's principle of operation is to convert power from a DC source, such as a solar panel, into AC power. The range of generated electricity will be between 250 and 600 volts. With the help of a set of IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors), this conversion procedure can be completed. When these solid-state devices are coupled in the form of an H-Bridge, the voltage fluctuates between DC and AC.

A step-up transformer is used to obtain AC electricity, which is then put into the grid. A few designers have begun designing transformer-less inverters that are more efficient than transformer-based inverters.

A pre-programmed microcontroller is utilized in every solar inverter system to execute different algorithms precisely. The MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) algorithm is used by this controller to increase the output power from the solar panel. 

Types of Solar Inverters 

Solar inverters can be classified based on their intended use, which includes the following.

1. String Inverter - This type of solar panel is strung together, with multiple strings connected to a single string inverter. DC power is included in each string, which is transformed into AC power and used in the same way as electricity. Several string inverters may be required, depending on the size of the installation, with each string receiving DC power from one or more strings. These inverters are suited for installations where the panels are all on one plane and do not face in different directions.
2. Central Inverters - These are similar to string inverters; except they are larger and can accommodate more solar panel strings. Instead of running strings directly to the inverter, the strings are grouped in a general combiner box, directing DC electricity to the center inverter, where it is converted to AC power. Because they are designed for big installations with uniform production across the array, these inverters do not require any component connections; however, they do require a pad and a combiner box.
3. Microinverters - These inverters are suitable for both business and household use. Because each panel has one inverter, these are also module-level electronics, just as power optimizers. At the panel, microinverters convert DC to AC, obviating the requirement for a string inverter.
4. Battery-based Inverter - Battery-based inverters are becoming more popular by the day. These are unidirectional and feature a battery charger as well as an inverter. This can be operated with the assistance of a battery. Based on the UL design and rating, these inverters are divided into three categories: grid-tied, grid-interactive, and off-grid. The key advantage is that they provide continuous operation for critical loads regardless of grid conditions. These inverters handle power between the grid and the array while charging the batteries in all cases, and they monitor the battery status and control how they're charged.

5. Hybrid Inverter - This inverter, commonly referred to as a multi-mode inverter, allows batteries to be connected to a solar power system. It connects to the battery using a technique called DC coupling. The battery's charging and discharging are controlled by electronics. As a result, the number of inverters available is limited.

This is all about the working of solar inverter from Microtek, a reputed name in the list of major solar energy companies in India. If you have any queries regarding Solar PV Modules or Solar Inverter then we request you to write them in the comment section below and our team will get back to you at the earliest.