Photovoltaic inverters

Photovoltaic inverters

A key component of the photovoltaic system is the inverter, a device responsible for converting direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) used in domestic electrical installations with standard parameters (230/400 V 50Hz). The inverter also performs the function of monitoring system operations and collecting data on the energy generated, using Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology.

The MPPT technology makes it possible to maximize the amount of energy produced by constantly tracking and adapting to the changing maximum power point of the panels, which changes depending on solar conditions. This increases the energy production efficiency in the photovoltaic system.

Photovoltaic inverters are also classified according to the number of phases into single-phase, which are used in systems with lower power, and three-phase, which are used in systems with higher power. In addition, we divide the inverters into transformer ones, which are equipped with a built-in transformer that ensures galvanic isolation between the DC and AC voltages, which is useful when earthing of one of the system poles is required, and transformerless ones, which are lighter and more efficient but require the use of additional protection measures.

We also differentiate between inverters in terms of their ability to connect to the grid. Grid-connected inverters, which allow surplus generated energy to be fed into the public grid, are key elements of on-grid installations. On the other hand, stand-alone inverters, which do not allow such a connection, are used in autonomous off-grid systems that enable complete independence from external power sources.