Microinverter vs String Inverter: Which is Better?


When considering a solar energy system for your Australian home or business, selecting the right inverter is crucial. The inverter converts the direct current (DC) produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC), which powers your appliances. The two primary types of inverters are microinverters and string inverters. Each has distinct characteristics that can influence the performance, cost, and scalability of your solar installation.

What is String Inverters

String inverters are centralised devices that connect a series (or “string”) of solar panels. Typically, a single-string inverter manages the DC-to-AC conversion for all panels in its string. This configuration is prevalent in both residential solar installation and commercial solar installations due to its cost-effectiveness and simplicity.

Advantages of String Inverters:

  1. Cost-Effectiveness: String inverters generally have a lower initial cost compared to microinverters, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious installations.

  2. Proven Reliability: With a long-standing presence in the solar industry, string inverters have a track record of dependable performance.

  3. Simplified Maintenance: Having a single inverter simplifies troubleshooting and maintenance processes.

Disadvantages of String Inverters:

  1. Impact of Shading: If one solar panel in the string is shaded or underperforming, it can reduce the output of the entire string.

  2. Limited Monitoring: String inverters typically provide monitoring at the system level, lacking detailed insights into individual solar panel performance.

  3. Expansion Constraints: Adding more solar panels in the future can be challenging, as it may require inverter replacement or significant system modifications.

Also Read: How to Choose a Good Solar Inverter

Exploring Microinverters

Microinverters are compact devices installed on each solar panel, converting DC to AC at the panel level. This decentralised approach allows each panel to operate independently, optimising overall system performance.


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