Grid-Tie Solar Inverters Buyer’s Guide

Micro Inverters

Micro grid-tie inverters are small, weatherproof DC-AC inverters. They’re suitable for solar systems in shaded areas and allow for future system expansion.

A microinverter is installed behind each solar panel, allowing for future expansion and continuous power if one of the units breaks down.

Micro inverter solar panel systems are the most popular choice among residential solar installations. This is because micro inverters are efficient, reasonably priced, easy to install and provide a smooth, hassle-free experience—even for novice solar installers. In addition, unlike string inverters, grid-tie micro inverter systems have no single point of failure.

Hybrid Inverters

One device, dual functions. Hybrid inverters, also known as battery-based inverters, combine the technology of a grid-tie inverter with a battery inverter. Like other grid-tie inverters, hybrid inverters convert DC electricity into AC electricity for both your solar panels and battery storage. That means a separate battery inverter isn’t necessary.

If you’re thinking about adding battery backup to your system, choose a hybrid inverter for maximum design flexibility, increased monitoring capabilities and lower maintenance overall. And enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’ll have backup power if the grid goes down, when paired with a battery.

Hybrid inverters currently cost more upfront than traditional grid-tie inverters. But ultimately, you can save more money in the long run compared to buying a non-hybrid inverter and a battery backup inverter separately.

String Inverters

String inverters have the lowest price point, but they also have more design challenges compared to other inverter types. Expansion (like adding more solar panels and batteries to an existing system) can be more difficult and expensive. String inverters for locations with limited shading to maximize performance. Although string inverter technology is traditional, they are still considered reliable because of their tried and true history in the solar power industry.

String inverters include one central inverter unit, with the solar panels “strung” together to connect back to the inverter. Most solar arrays will have one or two string inverter units. A string inverter mounts on a wall near the main service panel or the racking of a ground mount solar energy system.

String inverters cannot be used for roof-mounted systems unless paired with a panel-level rapid shutdown device.

Important note: String inverters have a single point of failure. If a string inverter goes out, your entire solar system goes down with it.