Solar Inverter; Types, Features, Brands, and Price Range
Solar inverters are essential components of any solar energy system. They convert the direct current (DC) electricity produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the form of electricity that is used in homes and businesses.
There are two main types of solar inverters: string inverters and microinverters. String inverters are the most common type, and they are installed at a central location and connected to all of the solar panels in the system. Microinverters, on the other hand, are installed on each individual solar panel, and they convert the DC electricity to AC electricity right at the panel.
One of the key features to consider when selecting a solar inverter is its efficiency. The efficiency of an inverter determines how much of the solar energy that is captured by the panels is actually converted into usable electricity. Higher efficiency inverters will result in more electricity being produced, which can lead to higher energy savings.
Other important features to consider include the inverter’s size, weight, and warranty. Larger inverters are typically more powerful and can support larger solar energy systems, but they may also be more expensive and take up more space. On the other hand, smaller inverters may be more compact and easier to install, but they may not be suitable for larger solar energy systems.
Brands that are well-known for producing high-quality solar inverters include SMA, Fronius, and Enphase. Prices for solar inverters can vary widely, but on average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on the size, efficiency, and brand of the inverter.
