Solar panels are a smart investment for those who want to live sustainably and save on energy costs. But did you know that the choice of inverter can have a significant impact on the yield of your solar panels? In this article, we dive into the world of microinverters and discover if they can really increase the yield of your solar panels, and what the potential additional cost is.
The Standard Setup
In a traditional solar panel installation, all the panels are connected in series, in what they call a "string." These panels deliver their direct current power to one central inverter, which converts this direct current into alternating current that feeds the grid. This means that power from one panel flows through the next panel and so on.
While this is a common practice, it has an important drawback: if one panel is partially shaded, it will immediately reduce the power output of the entire string.
Micro-inverters as an Alternative
Microinverters offer an alternative to this problem. In this configuration, each panel has its own inverter that converts DC power into AC power. All microinverters are connected in parallel on the AC side and feed power directly into the grid.
The advantage of microinverters is evident when some panels are regularly shaded. These inverters ensure that the performance of each panel is independent of the others, minimizing shading problems.
However, installers stress that a little bit of shade during the morning or evening will not drastically reduce power output. It is only when solar panels are shaded for long periods of time that the loss of efficiency becomes noticeable, and this is where micro-inverters show their strength.
Situation dependent Choosing
However, the use of microinverters is not without its drawbacks. The total investment cost is higher and there are more devices in the system that could potentially malfunction. So the choice between a central inverter and microinverters depends heavily on your specific situation.
If all your solar panels are always fully in the sun and generating the same amount of energy, a central inverter is the logical choice. It is more efficient and cost-effective in such conditions. But if shading is a recurring problem, then microinverters can be an interesting option to optimize the efficiency of your solar panels.
In addition to shade factors, you also need to consider electricity prices and initial investment costs. Microinverters can be more expensive than a central inverter, so it is important to weigh the costs and benefits carefully before making a decision.
Conclusion
Microinverters can significantly increase the output of your solar panels in certain situations, especially if shading issues are a factor. They allow each panel to perform independently of the others, minimizing the negative effects of shade.
On the other hand, if your solar panels are always full in the sun and investment cost is an important factor, a central inverter may be the better choice.
It is essential to evaluate your own situation and needs and possibly seek advice from professionals before making a final choice. That way, you can ensure that your solar panels perform at their best and your investment will pay off in the long run, regardless of whether you choose microinverters or a central inverter.
