Solar Inverters in South Africa: A Complete Guide to Types and Applications

[Leo_Thomas]

A solar inverter is the backbone of any solar system. Solar panels produce electricity in DC and inverter converts it to AC that can be used to operate any electric appliance in the house and the excess can be exported to the grid. It is also important to choose the right solar inverter to make sure your solar power system operates in an optimal and reliable manner and to maximize the efficiency.

What is a Solar Inverter?


An inverter that is used for solar applications is called a solar inverter. The purpose of a solar inverter is to convert the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the solar panels to useful alternating current (AC) electricity that can be supplied to the grid and consumed by the household. The equipment that connects your solar panel with your home electrical system is the inverter, which serves several important functions including monitoring, safety, and energy efficiency.

Types of Solar Inverters

In this section, we will outline the different types of solar inverters in the market with respect to their functions, purposes, and requirements of installations.

GMI Research predicts that the, South Africa Solar Inverter Market is estimated to grow at a robust CAGR during the forecast period till 2031.

String Inverters
Overview: The string inverter, is the most commonly used type of inverter for residential and commercial solar installations, and is also referred to as the central inverter. In a string inverter system, there are multiple solar panels, which are connected in a series of panels as a 'string', and each string feeds into a separate inverter.

Advantages:

Affordable: Residential systems often utilize string inverters due to them being the most cost-effective option for solar installations.
Established Reputation: String inverters are the oldest technology in this field and are by far the most reliable and simplistic systems due to having the least amount of components.
Microinverters
Description: Microinverters are small inverters attached to every single solar panel. Conversions of direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) are not done at a single center, but rather done at parallel microinverters, individually for every panel. This decentralization enables each panel to work independently.

Advantages:

Better Performance While Partially Shadowed: Since every panel works independently, shading (partial or entire) on one panel won't affect the power generation of the others.
More Accurate Performance Monitoring: Microinverters allow for individual monitoring of each solar panel, which enables homeowners to even know how each one is performing.
Power Optimizers
Description: Power optimizers are also attached to every solar panel, like microinverters, and they also work alongside a central string inverter. Optimisers condition the DC power from each panel and then funnel it to a central inverter to enhance the performance of the entire system.

Advantages:
Individual Performance Optimization: Similar to microinverters, power optimizers enhance performance under shading or other non-uniform solar conditions by individually optimizing the output of each panel.
Budget Friendly Alternative for Increased Efficiency: Compared to microinverters, power optimizers provide more reasonable prices and a middle-tier option.
Hybrid Inverters
Description: Also known as multi-mode inverters, hybrid inverters perform the functions of a solar inverter and a battery storage system. Because they are able to function with battery systems, homeowners are able to store surplus energy for later use, or during a blackout.

Advantages:
Compatibility with Energy Storage: Hybrid inverters provide battery storage seamless integration, which is perfect for houses that want back up power, or to store surplus energy.
Off-Grid Inverters
Description: Off-grid inverters are designed for stand-alone solar systems that are not connected to the power grid. They provide stable AC power directly to the premises by employing battery storage systems.

Advantages:
Complete Energy Autonomy: Off-grid inverters are especially beneficial for remote locations, as they allow homes and businesses to operate without dependence on the grid.
Dependable Auxiliary Energy: Off-grid systems, when paired with batteries, provide uninterrupted energy even when there is no grid power.