Huawei String Inverters: Standard Centralized Inverters Most small solar systems use string inverters, also known as "centralized" inverters. In a solar photovoltaic system with a string inverter, each panel is joined together to form a "string." When they produce energy, they are all sent to an inverter, usually at home, in the garage, or in your basement. The inverter converts all the electricity from your solar panels into the AC of your property.
Advantages: The string inverter is the lowest cost inverter option and is a "tested" inverter technology. They are also the easiest to maintain because they are located in an easily accessible location.
Disadvantages: If your system uses a string inverter, it will only produce as much useful power as the least efficient solar panel. If only one or two panels are in a cool place or are not functioning properly, the power production of a system with a series inverter may be "bottleneck" or drastically reduced.
Micro-Inverter: If the string inverter can be considered a "centralized" inverter, the micro-inverter is a "distributed" inverter. A solar PV system with a micro-inverter is equipped with a small inverter at the location of each individual solar panel. Instead of transferring the energy of each panel to a single inverter, the micro-inverter system converts DC solar energy into AC energy on the roof.
Advantages: Micro-inverters are more efficient at converting energy than string inverters because they are located on the roof near the solar panels. Even with one or two panels in the system performing poorly, systems with micro-inverters will still generate energy. Micro-inverters also monitor the performance of specific panels, making it easier to identify production problems that arise.
Disadvantages: Micro-inverters cost far more than string inverters and may be more difficult to maintain or repair in the event of problems because they are located on the roof. Best suited: a system with solar panels facing multiple directions, a homeowner who wants to maximize solar production in a small space, and a "complex" roof with gables, chimneys or other objects that can cause shadows.
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