When you think of solar system or solar kit, you usually think only of solar panels. However, to these you must add other components such as cables, protection devices, support and monitoring systems (smart meters), possible energy storage systems and, above all, solar inverters.
In this article, we will explore in detail everything about solar inverters, offering complete overview of all details and essential information related to this component, prices of 1kW to 6kW inverters, commonly considered beating heart of solar system. Finally, we will answer some of most frequently asked questions about solar inverters.
Table of Contents
What is solar inverter and how does it work?
Let’s start this article by explaining in depth what solar inverter is and how it works.
Solar inverter is heart of solar system because it enables those who install solar system on their roof to use energy produced inside their homes. The current generated by solar panels is in direct current (DC), which is not suitable for domestic use. Therefore, it is necessary to convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) using solar inverter in order to use energy produced on daily basis.
Solar inverters optimize energy production generated by solar modules, allowing maximum possible yield to be obtained from system. Replaceability of electronic components of solar inverters helps to guarantee lifespan of approximately 10 years.
Qualities of solar inverter
We have examined important role of solar inverters within solar system. Now we will explore some of key features of these devices:
- Current Conversion: As mentioned above, main function of solar inverter is to convert direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC). This conversion allows energy produced to be used within our homes.
- Optimizing Energy Production: Solar inverters work to maximize overall performance of system by optimizing energy production from solar panels. This helps ensure optimal system performance
- Protection Devices: Solar inverters are equipped with protection devices that ensure safety of entire solar system. These devices intervene in event of system failures or short circuits, helping to prevent potential damage.
- Plant monitoring: Protection devices integrated into inverters also perform monitoring function on entire solar plant. This feature allows for detection of any faults or malfunctions in production of electricity, providing monitoring mechanism to ensure efficient and safe operation over time.
Well, let’s now look more specifically at how solar inverter works
How solar inverter works
Now that we have examined main functions performed by this device, let’s see in more detail how solar inverter works.
Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. However, since this electricity is in form of direct current, it cannot be used directly inside our homes. So how can we use electricity generated by solar energy? Answer is solar inverter!
This device plays an essential role in any solar system, as it has ability to convert direct current into alternating current. Energy produced by solar panels is directed to solar inverters, which perform this transformation, thus allowing us to use electrical energy generated by sun inside our homes.
Here is infographic on how solar inverter works, take a look!
It is important to consider some important aspects before installing solar inverter:
- Correct functioning of domestic electrical circuits
- Position of solar inverter
- Electrical connections between inverter itself and electrical panel of house
- Sizing inverter
For these reasons, we recommend that you turn to industry professionals who can guide you towards best choice. At Pk Solar Power, we work with more than one hundred certified solar installers ready to help you install your solar system and resolve any doubts relating to process.
How to read Solar Inverter
Some solar inverters feature small display designed to provide user with information about energy production, similar to standard electricity meter. This data is based on instantaneous or periodic energy production, including crucial information such as:
- Instantaneous production: This data allows you to immediately evaluate overall efficiency of system. Any sudden drop could indicate potential failure to investigate
- Peak production: Indicates maximum peak of energy production, representing maximum amount of energy generated in given period
Modern inverters have abandoned LED displays in favor of series of internal sensors that transmit data via wireless protocols. This approach allows for remote monitoring of system performance, making data more easily accessible via web portals or smartphone apps.
Guide to Indicator Lights of Solar Inverter
Each solar inverter has three LED light indicators of different colors (blue, green and red) that, together, provide crucial information on operation of system, including any errors and performance. Here are possible combinations and their meaning:
- Blue light on: Indicates that solar inverter is connected and communicating with Monitoring Platform
- Green light on: Indicates that system is active and generating power
- Flashing Green Light: Indicates that system is receiving power on AC (alternating current) side but is not currently producing power.
- Red light on: Indicates presence of an error or an anomaly in system
This simple visual coding allows you to quickly monitor status of your solar system and take prompt action if any problems arise. Infographic below presents main meanings of solar inverter lights.
Tasks of solar inverter
So what are tasks of solar inverter? Within solar system, solar inverters perform series of complex tasks that go beyond simple transformation of current for domestic use. Among their many tasks, we can mention:
- Power Optimization: Inverters must adapt to fluctuations in irradiance and temperature of solar panels to extract maximum possible power. This is done by identifying and maintaining “Maximum Power Point” (MPP), thus optimizing performance of entire photovoltaic system.
- Monitoring and safety: Inverters constantly monitor overall efficiency of system and detect any anomalies. In event of problems on power grid, they can deactivate system for safety reasons or regulate it according to operator’s requests, thus helping to protect grid itself.
- Safety Devices: Inverters can safely interrupt flow of current from panels, preventing formation of dangerous electrical arcs during maintenance or failures, ensuring safer working environment.
- Communication: Inverters offer interfaces for control, monitoring and parameter configuration. Collected data can be sent to data loggers and transmitted to online portals for analysis, enabling complete control and efficient management of solar system.
In infographic below you will find all tasks of solar inverter.
What to Know About Sizing Solar Inverter
An important aspect when it comes to choosing most suitable solar inverter for your system concerns its correct sizing.
To correctly determine specifications of photovoltaic inverter, it is essential to consider various technical and environmental aspects. One of key elements is voltage management, which depends on number of modules connected in series and operating conditions.
Crucial aspect is maximum number of modules that can be connected in series in string. This determines maximum voltage that string itself can generate. It is also essential to consider maximum number of strings that inverter can accept.
When calculating maximum string voltage, it is necessary to take into account adverse conditions such as high temperatures and low solar irradiance. Goal is to ensure that string voltage does not exceed the maximum threshold supported by inverter.
For example, let’s consider solar system composed of 12 modules connected in series. To correctly size inverter, it is essential to calculate maximum voltage of string resulting from these modules and verify that it does not exceed maximum input capacity of inverter itself. This procedure ensures efficient and safe operation of solar system as whole.
Let’s now examine different types of solar inverters.
Types of solar inverters
Considering voltage and string specifications, it is important to understand different types of solar inverters available on market. This understanding will help you select inverter that best suits specific needs of your solar system. Among most common types are single-phase and three-phase inverters, each designed to suit different contexts and power requirements.
Single phase inverters are designed to be used in single phase networks and have two connectors, one for phase and one for neutral. These inverters are typically used in solar systems with power of less than 6kW. Their structure and functionality are optimized to adapt to needs of single phase residential networks or small commercial systems.
On other hand, three-phase inverters are composed of three phases and handle three separate alternating currents. These inverters are ideal for large-scale solar systems, such as those used in large companies or industrial warehouses, where greater power and reliability are required. It is important to note that, although less common, there are cases where three-phase inverters are also used in residential environments, especially when solar installation is of significant size or in presence of three-phase network.
Choice between single-phase and three-phase inverter therefore depends on specific qualities of solar system, including power, network type and end-user needs. Careful selection of inverters contributes not only to maximizing efficiency of system, but also to its durability and long-term performance.
This distinction is important to distinguish between solar inverters for grid-connected systems and inverters for stand-alone solar systems.
1. Solar inverter for grid-connected systems
Inverters play crucial role in grid-connected solar systems, as they perform fundamental function of converting solar energy captured by solar panels into usable electrical energy. This process not only allows direct powering of electrical devices in building or surrounding area, but also offers possibility of pouring any excess energy into national electricity grid, thus contributing to stability and sustainability of overall energy system.
Furthermore, Exchange on Site service, users can obtain financial compensation for energy fed into grid, making solar systems not only an ecological choice but also profitable investment in long term.
There are different types of inverters designed to meet specific needs and qualities of solar systems. Among options available on market, four main categories of grid-connected electric inverters stand out:
- String Inverter: This type of inverter is commonly used in solar systems where solar panels are connected in series to form “string”. String inverter converts energy generated by each string of panels into alternating current (AC) for power supply and possible transfer to grid.
- Centralized Inverter: Unlike string inverter, centralized inverter is designed to manage multiple strings of solar panels, allowing for greater flexibility and optimization of system. This type of inverter can be more efficient in terms of overall system performance
- Microinverter: This is more advanced solution where each solar panel is equipped with its own microinverter, allowing for more precise monitoring and control of each module. Microinverters eliminate problem of reduction in performance of entire system due to any problems in individual panels or strings.
- Hybrid Inverters: This category of inverters is designed for solar systems that are integrated with energy storage systems, such as batteries. Hybrid inverters allow not only to convert solar energy into usable electricity, but also to manage storage and withdrawal of energy from batteries, thus offering complete solution for energy self-consumption and demand management.
Choice of most suitable inverter depends on specific needs of solar system, including size, configuration of solar panels, desired level of monitoring and control, and presence or absence of energy storage systems.
String inverter
String solar inverters are most used and economical on market, requiring maintenance that does not require additional time and costs. These inverters are usually used for those systems that are not affected by shading that would limit optimal use of each string.
For this reason, this type of solar inverter is ideal for geographical areas where solar radiation remains constant every year and no solar panel is affected by shade.
Centralized inverter
Centralized inverters are usually used with large solar systems, due to their simple and direct use. Solar modules are connected to each other in series, thus forming strings of up to 1000V of open circuit voltage. In this case, single inverter is connected to these strings connected in parallel. Among disadvantages of this inverter is impossibility of monitoring performance of each individual solar panel and of using them in case of shading, unlike string inverters.
Microinverters
Microinverters have different function than string or centralized inverters, since each device of this type is installed on individual solar panel. This means that each solar module has the ability to transform energy into alternating current. Unlike string inverters, the energy production generated by photovoltaic panel does not affect rest, not going to negatively affect performance of entire photovoltaic system.
Microinverters represent an advanced solution in field of solar systems, offering series of significant benefits that make them an increasingly popular and convenient choice. Among main benefits of microinverters, we can list:
- Individual Solar Panel Monitoring: Microinverters allow for monitoring and controlling performance of each individual solar panel within system. This level of detail allows for early detection and resolution of any issues or performance degradation at granular level.
- Low Power Dissipation: Compared to other inverter solutions, microinverters tend to feature lower power dissipation, thus helping to maximize overall efficiency of solar system and reduce energy losses.
- Ease of Solar System Expansion: Due to their modular nature, microinverters allow for easy and flexible solar system expansion. New panels and microinverters can be added without having to reconfigure entire system, making system upgrades and expansions simple and cost-effective process.
- Connecting solar modules in parallel: Microinverters allow individual solar modules to be connected in parallel rather than in series, thus eliminating problem of reduction in performance of entire system due to single defective or shaded panel. This approach increases reliability and overall efficiency of the system.
- Long life and durability: Microinverters are designed to offer long operating life and exceptional durability over time. Thanks to their robust construction and advanced technology, they are able to maintain high performance for many years, minimizing need for maintenance and replacement
- Easy to locate faulty modules: In event of fault or malfunction in solar module, microinverters allow you to quickly and accurately locate problem panels. This capability greatly simplifies maintenance and repair operations, reducing downtime and optimizing overall performance of system
What is Disadvantage? Price is higher because there are small inverters built into each solar panel.
Hybrid Inverter
Hybrid solar inverter has same function as conventional string inverter, but in addition to transforming energy from panels for domestic use, it ensures charging/discharging of energy in systems with storage .
Hybrid solar inverters, there are also so-called smart inverters on market: devices capable of charging solar batteries with energy from electrical grid when price is low, to then use it in cases where photovoltaic system is unable to satisfy home’s electrical needs.
This type of technology is designed to obtain maximum self-sufficiency of solar system and allow maximum possible energy saving. However, it has very high price.
2. Solar inverter for stand-alone systems
Stand-alone solar systems are systems that are not connected to external electrical grid and require presence of battery to store solar energy produced by solar modules. In this context, inverter is responsible for directly extracting energy from battery and converting it into alternating current, thus making it usable at home.
This type of solar inverter is commonly used in areas with limited or no accessibility to external electrical connection, such as mountain huts or on means of transport such as campers or boats .
Off-grid inverters operate similarly to hybrid inverters used in grid-tied solar systems. However, distinguishing feature of these devices is their ability to create their own power grid, eliminating dependence on an external connection.
2.2kW Inverter Price in Pakistan
In Pakistan, where power price up and load shedding are common challenges, inverters have become essential for ensuring reliable and uninterrupted power supply. 2.2kW inverter is popular choice for homes and businesses due to its ability to handle wide range of appliances and devices. Let’s scrutinize pricing of solar inverters, factors influencing cost, and frequently asked questions about 2.2kW inverters in Pakistan.
Price Range for 2.2kW Inverters
Price of 2.2kW inverter in Pakistan can vary significantly depending on several factors. Here’s general breakdown:
- Basic Models: Entry-level inverters with essential features and lower power output typically range from PKR 40,000 to PKR 60,000.
- Mid-Range Models: Inverters with additional features like pure sine wave output, remote monitoring, and higher efficiency can cost between PKR 70,000 and PKR 100,000.
- High-End Models: Premium inverters with advanced technology, robust construction, and extended warranties may range from PKR 120,000 to PKR 150,000 or more.
Factors Affecting Inverter Price
- Brand: Renowned brands often command higher prices due to their reputation for quality and reliability.
- Features: Inverters with additional features like MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technology, battery management systems, and solar compatibility tend to be more expensive.
- Waveform: Pure sine wave inverters, which provide cleaner power for sensitive electronics, are generally priced higher than modified sine wave inverters.
- Efficiency: Inverters with higher efficiency ratings (measured in percent) are more energy-efficient and may cost slightly more.
- Warranty: Longer warranty periods often correlate with higher prices.
3kW and 6kW solar inverters
3kW and 6kW solar inverters are usually most sought after. Number of solar panels that can be connected to these devices depends greatly on output power of individual solar modules and voltage of entire solar system.
An example? If we were to use 300vW solar modules, we could connect up to 10 panels in series to get system voltage of 300V DC and 20 panels in series to get system voltage of 600V.
It is important to remember that sizing of solar system depends on many factors such as space, orientation of solar panels, shadows, and other technical factors.
In general, we remember that solar inverter is able to convert approximately 1/1.5 times its nominal power and, aware of fact that system is not able to reach its nominal peak power due to absence of ideal laboratory conditions for its achievement, we always choose only to install an inverter with nominal power lower than peak power of system.
We recommend that you consult one of our experts who will be able to illustrate which inverter is best suited to your needs.
Prices of solar inverter
Selection of solar inverters requires careful consideration as it directly affects overall performance and profitability of system. As mentioned, there are several options on market with wide range of prices that reflect number of determining factors.
Inverter kW and Brands | Price PKR |
Inverter 1kW ZCS | 25,000 |
Inverter 1.1kW ZCS | 35,000 |
Inverter 1.6kW ZCS | 45,000 |
Inverter 2.2kW ZCS | 60,000 |
Inverter 3kW Azzurro TLM V3 Zucchetti – double MPPT | 180,000 |
Inverter 4.0kW Azzurro TLM Plus Zucchetti – double MPPT | 250,000 |
Inverter 4.6kW Azzurro TLM Plus Zucchetti – double MPPT | 280,000 |
Inverter 5kW Azzurro TLM V3 Zucchetti – double MPPT | 350,000 |
Inverter 6kW Azzurro TLM V3 Zucchetti – double MPPT | 400,000 |
2.2kW SolarEdge SE2200H inverter | 80,000 |
3kW SolarEdge SE3000H inverter | 400,000 |
4kW SolarEdge SE4000H inverter | 500,000 |
5kW SolarEdge SE5000H inverter | 600,000 |
6kW SolarEdge SE5000H inverter | 700,000 |
Huawei Sun2000L 3kW Hybrid Inverter | 150,000 |
Huawei Sun2000L 3.68kW Hybrid Inverter | 250,000 |
Huawei Sun2000L 4kW Hybrid Inverter | 300,000 |
Huawei Sun2000L 4.6kW Hybrid Inverter | 350,000 |
Huawei Sun2000L 5kW Hybrid Inverter | 400,000 |
Huawei Sun2000L 6kW Hybrid Inverter | 430,000 |
Solar inverter costs can vary greatly, with prices ranging from around PKR 60,000 to PKR 80,000 for microinverters to PKR 1,000,000 for high-power three-phase inverters, such as 50kW.
This wide range of prices is influenced by several key factors:
- Power: Power rating of inverter is one of main factors that influence price. More powerful inverters, capable of handling higher loads, tend to cost more than those with lower power.
- Quality: The build quality and reputation of the manufacturer can have significant impact on the price. Inverters from well-known brands with a proven track record on the market may cost more than those from lesser-known or lower-quality brands.
- Inverter Type: There are different types of inverters, including single-phase, three-phase, hybrid, and microinverters. Each type has specific features and capabilities that can affect price. For example, hybrid inverters, which combine solar and energy storage capabilities, can be more expensive than traditional inverters.
To give more specific example, let’s consider 4kW inverter. Price of this type of inverter generally ranges from about 250,000 to 370,000 PKR, including tax and margin costs. If you opt for hybrid inverter with same power, price can range between 250,000 and 400,000 PKR depending on brand and product specifications.
How to choose solar inverter correctly
Now that we have seen many features it is also appropriate to understand how to choose solar inverter.
When it comes to choosing most suitable inverter for your solar system, it is important to consider several factors in order to make the most informed and advantageous decision. Once you have acquired all the information relating to solar system and the home, it is natural to ask yourself how to proceed with selection of inverter.
Since inverter represents significant investment, constituting at least 10% of overall cost of solar system, it is essential to identify the best option based on your specific needs. Crucial first step is to have clear understanding of the power of system, since choice of solar inverter will mainly depend on this factor.
Selecting ideal inverter is not simply limited to power of system. It is equally important to consider other technical aspects, such as energy efficiency of inverter, its reliability over time, remote monitoring and control capabilities, as well as compatibility with solar system and local regulations.
It is advisable to carefully evaluate options available on market, comparing features, performance and prices of different inverter models. Consulting an industry professional or an expert solar installer can be invaluable for personalized advice and support in selecting inverter that best suits your needs and budget.
Investing time in researching and evaluating available options can result in significant long-term benefits, ensuring optimal operation of your solar system and maximizing your return on investment over time.
Best Inverters for Solar Panel
There are many models and brands of solar inverters on current market, and faced with these options it is necessary to identify which can be best inverters for solars.
One aspect that will need to be taken into consideration to identify best inverters for solar systems is the guarantee.
Below we list those that we offer at Pk Solar Power and their guarantees:
- SolarEdge inverter with 10 years warranty
- Zucchetti inverters with 10- year warranty
- Huawei inverters with 10 year warranty
- Enphase Microinverters with 25- Year Warranty
Photovoltaic inverter for storage systems
Did you know that solar inverter also plays crucial role in managing storage system?
Solar storage batteries allow you to store unused energy produced by the system and make it available during periods in which the system cannot meet the home’s energy consumption, such as at night or during cloudy or bad weather days. Solar inverter for storage is known as hybrid inverter, because it manages charging and discharging process of batteries depending on circumstances.
Another variant is smart inverter, which not only manages charging and discharging of batteries, but can also recharge them using both energy produced by solar system and electricity drawn from external grid when solar production is not sufficient.
This combination of solar and inverter with storage allows to maximize self-consumption and energy savings, thus reducing dependence on energy from external grid. This approach offers significant benefits in terms of cost optimization and reduction of environmental impact. It is essential to carefully evaluate investment, considering cost of solar system and its components, including inverter, based on both economic and environmental benefits that can be obtained.
Frequently Asked Questions
Role of solar inverter is to convert direct current and alternating current, thus allowing home devices to use solar energy produced by solar system.
Installation costs can vary depending on factors like the complexity of installation, location, and electrician’s rates. It’s advisable to obtain quotes from multiple professionals.
Yes, you can find used inverters at lower cost. However, carefully inspect conditions and consider potential for reduced lifespan or performance issues.
Reading solar inverter production meters is very simple. Just press meter button and values ​​of energy produced by system in various time slots will appear.
Lifespan of solar inverter depends on factors like usage, maintenance, and quality of the components. With proper care, well-built inverter can last for several years.
Online prices can sometimes be more competitive due to reduced overhead costs. However, it’s essential to consider factors like shipping, installation, and after-sales support when comparing prices.