Introduction to Microinverter
A microinverter is a kind of inverter used to convert DC electricity to AC at the solar photovoltaic (PV) module level. Microinverters are relatively easy to install, expand for an increase in future demand, and use in complex design scenarios. The panels are individually operated in terms of DC to AC conversion. In some applications, however, a few modules (say 4) are connected in series to maximize PV production at the installation. There are several manufacturers with varied applications. It is important to check and verify details per the make design and installation requirements.
Key features of microinverters include:
Individual Panel Optimization: Each solar panel in a system equipped with microinverters operates independently, allowing for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) at the panel level. This means that shading or soiling on one panel does not affect the performance of other panels in the array, resulting in higher overall energy production.
Enhanced Efficiency: Improve system efficiency by reducing the impact of shading, mismatch, and partial system failures. By converting DC to AC power at the panel level, they minimize power losses associated with long DC cable runs and optimize energy harvest under varying environmental conditions.
Monitoring and Control: Many microinverter systems include built-in monitoring and control capabilities, allowing users to remotely monitor the performance of each solar panel in real time. This visibility enables early detection of issues such as panel degradation, faults, or system malfunctions, facilitating timely maintenance and troubleshooting.
Scalability and Expandability: Microinverter-based systems are inherently modular and scalable, making them suitable for installations of varying sizes and configurations. Additional solar panels can be easily integrated into the system without requiring modifications to existing infrastructure, offering flexibility for future expansion or system upgrades.
Safety and Reliability: Operate at low DC voltages, reducing the risk of electrical shock and fire hazards associated with high-voltage DC systems. Distributed power conversion also improves system reliability by isolating the impact of potential failures on individual panels rather than affecting the entire array.
Microinverter Makers in no Order of Preference
1. Enphase Energy
Enphase Energy: Founded in 2006, Enphase is a prominent player in the microinverter market. Their microinverters are widely used in residential and commercial solar installations.
2. APsystems
APsystems: APsystems is a global leader in solar microinverter technology. Their microinverters are designed for residential and commercial applications for both single-phase (DS3) and three-phase (QT2) applications.
3. Chilicon Power
Chilicon Power: Chilicon Power specializes in microinverter solutions for solar energy systems. Chilicon Power has a collection of microinverters known for their advanced features and compatibility with high-powered PV modules.
4. SMA Solar Technology AG (Sunny Boy)
SMA Solar Technology AG (Sunny Boy): SMA, a well-established company in the solar industry, also offers microinverters. Their Sunny Boy microinverter series is designed for residential solar installations.
5. Hoymiles
Hoymiles: Founded in 2012, Hoymiles has become a key producer of microinverters for a wide range of global markets for single-phase and three-phase systems. For instance, the HMS-350/400/450/500-NA series is a 1-in-1 microinverter designed to be connected to a single solar module for the North American Market. The HM-1200NT and HM-1500NT models are a 4-in-1 microinverter that supports up to 4 panels at once for maximum PV production.
6. Deye
Deye: Founded in 2007, Ningbo Deye Inverter Technology Co., Ltd has become an important manufacturing player in the global solar microinverter market. Their microinverters’ power ranges from 300W to 2000W capable of meeting different voltage outputs.
7. Siemens AG
Siemens AG: Siemens is a global leader in providing a wide range of power generation and related technologies including solar microinverters such as the SMIINT250R60xx.
8. Huayu New Energy Technologies Co., Ltd
Huayu New Energy Technologies Co., Ltd: The company first launched its microinverter in 2012 with a 250W capacity as a single unit. Progressively, they launched the 500W “2 in 1” and 1000W “4 in 1” microinverters in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Huayu New Energy has a broad range of microinverters for varied applications across different global solar markets.
9. SPARQ
SPARQ: The company has a range of revolutionary quad microinverters useful in the solar power industry. The Q2000 is the industry’s highest power rating microinverter designed to connect 4 PV panels.
10. Northern Electric Power Technology Inc
Northern Electric Power Technology Inc: The company was founded in 2010 and launched its microinverter product onto the market in 2011. NEP has microinverters designed for Rule 21 (California) compatible and non-Rule 21 Compatible.
Summary
In summary, microinverters offer several advantages over traditional string inverters, including improved energy harvest, enhanced system performance, greater flexibility, and enhanced safety features. While they may involve higher upfront costs compared to string inverters, the long-term benefits in terms of efficiency, reliability, and monitoring capabilities make them an attractive option for residential and commercial solar installations.
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I read through the lines here on microinverter and it was truly helpful in helping me to understand really well.
Thanks Emmanuel.