With the drive towards renewable energy growing daily, solar power is fast becoming the most in-demand system. According to Business Tech, South Africa imported some R2.2 billion worth of solar PV panels in the first five months of 2022 alone. But along with the panels, consumers need to consider the type of inverter they will install to convert the DC to AC power. Micro inverters and string inverters are two popular options, but which is best? Here’s why we think the ENPHASE Micro Inverter is the way to go.
What is an inverter?
The solar array consists of a range of equipment, but the inverter is easily one of the most important – which is why you need to choose wisely. The inverter effectively converts the direct current (DC) electricity from the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that is used by the grid to power appliances. AC electricity can flow in both directions in the circuit as the voltage changes.
What is a micro inverter?
As the name suggests, this is a small inverter which converts solar power for appliance use. However, there is no need to create strings of panels, they are designed to have one inverter per panel. Rather than connecting the series of panels and calculating the voltage accordingly, the micro inverter allows for individual panel performance.
What is a string inverter?
Once the dominant type of inverter, the string inverter connects the solar panels through a series of wires (or strings) so that the voltage of the entire string adds up as you add more panels. Basically, the performance is reliant on the worst-performing panel. The string inverter would be installed near your main switchboard, with larger solar arrays requiring multiple string inverters.
What are the benefits of ENPHASE Micro Inverters?
Micro inverters – particularly the ENPHASE Micro Inverters – are emerging as the preferred option for solar arrays. While string inverters aren’t necessarily going anywhere yet, there are several reasons by the ENPHASE Micro Inverter is beneficial.
1. Better value over time
The design of the ENPHASE Micro Inverter allows it to determine the optimal voltage of each system so that only the maximum peak power voltage is generated at any time. The micro inverter actually tracks the cell temperature and solar intensity in real time through Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT).
2. Not impacted by shade
The MPPT means that, if your solar array is in a shaded or partially shaded area during the day, or if there is dirt, debris or some other obstruction, the ENPHASE Micro Inverter will ensure that the other solar panels – which are unaffected – will continue to produce optimal power. This is because each solar panel is independently controlled, unlike the string inverters.
3. Increased reliability
The high-quality ENPHASE Micro Inverters will have gone incredible testing in a variety of weather conditions which means that, no matter what is happening outside, you will still benefit from an uninterrupted power supply.
4. Individual monitoring
Unlike the connected string converters, ENPHASE Micro Inverters are designed for per-panel monitoring which makes the system that much more efficient. If there are any underperforming panels in the system, they will immediately be noticed and the suppliers or homeowners will be able to attend to them. This will ensure your power system is operating at maximum capacity at all times.
5. Improved safety for users
With any electrical system, you need to ensure that it’s incredibly safe to prevent the risk of fire or injury. Fortunately, the ENPHASE Micro Inverter is incredibly safe in that it converts the DC power into AC power instantly. What this does is remove any potential exposure to high-voltage and, therefore, high-risk DC electricity.
6. Increased longevity
Because of the better safety rating, improved performance monitoring and longevity of the ENPHASE Micro Inverter, you can benefit from longer warranties than those accompanying string inverters. They typically have around a 25-year warranty as opposed to around eight to 12 years.
7. More energy
One of the biggest benefits of the ENPHASE Micro Inverter is that you actually get more solar power than with string inverters. There is also minimum wiring required which reduces costs, and through the MPPT you get more energy for your appliances.
If you’re considering installing a solar power system and enjoying the many benefits of this renewable energy source, then ensure you’re working with the best installers who rely only on top-end products. JUPS is ready to provide you with the insight and support you need to power your home or office.