Micro Inverters vs. String Inverters.

When it comes to installing solar panels, selecting the right solar inverter is crucial for maximising your system's performance. One of the key decisions homeowners face is choosing between micro inverters and string inverters. Both types of solar inverters serve the same purpose—converting the DC (direct current) energy produced by your solar panels into AC (alternating current) electricity—but they work in very different ways. Understanding the differences between these two options can help you make the best choice for your home, energy needs, and budget.

At Kenect Energy, we can help you decide which solar inverter is right for your installation by looking at the advantages and disadvantages of each. 

What Are Micro Inverters?

Micro inverters are small, individual units installed on the back of each solar panel. Each panel is paired with its own micro inverter, allowing for independent optimisation and performance monitoring.

Advantages of Micro Inverters:

1. Optimised Performance for Each Panel
   With a micro inverter on each panel, your system is optimised individually. If one panel is shaded or underperforms, the other panels continue to generate electricity at their full capacity. This is a major advantage over string inverters, where shading or failure of one panel can reduce the entire system’s output.

2. Better Performance in Shaded Areas
   Micro inverters are ideal for homes with partial shading. If trees, buildings, or other obstructions cause shading on some panels, a solar installer will find that the other panels will continue to work efficiently, ensuring the entire system performs optimally.

3. Panel-Level Monitoring
   Micro inverters provide detailed monitoring for each panel. This means you can track the performance of each solar panel individually, making it easier to troubleshoot any issues and optimise energy production.

4. Flexibility for Future Expansion
   If you plan to add more panels to your system later, micro inverters offer more flexibility. Expanding your system with additional panels can be easier with this modular setup compared to string inverters.

Disadvantages of Micro Inverters:

1. Higher Initial Cost
   Micro inverters generally come with a higher upfront cost because each panel requires its own inverter. While they offer advantages, the installation price is typically more expensive than a string inverter system.

2. Complex Installation
   Installing micro inverters requires more time and effort since each panel needs to be connected to its own inverter. This can increase installation costs and the overall complexity of the setup.

What Are String Inverters?

String inverters are the most commonly used type of solar inverter. In this setup, a single inverter is used to convert the DC power from multiple solar panels connected in series (a "string") into AC power.

Advantages of String Inverters:

1. Lower Upfront Costs
   String inverters are less expensive than micro inverters because you only need one inverter for the entire system. This makes the installation process more affordable for many homeowners.

2. Simple Installation
   With only one inverter to install, the process is quicker and easier for your solar installer, which can help reduce installation costs and time.

3. Proven and Reliable Technology
   String inverters have been used for many years and are well-established in the industry. They offer a reliable and straightforward solution for homeowners seeking a traditional solar setup.

Disadvantages of String Inverters:

1. Reduced Performance in Shaded Areas
   A major downside of string inverters is that they perform less efficiently if one panel in the string is shaded or underperforming. In this case, the entire string’s output is affected, reducing the overall efficiency of your solar system.

2. No Panel-Level Monitoring
   Unlike micro inverters, string inverters typically only offer system-level monitoring. This makes it harder to diagnose issues with individual panels, which may lead to delays in identifying problems or underperformance.

3. Limited Flexibility for Expansion
   Expanding a system with string inverters is more complicated. If you add new panels to your system, your solar installer may need to replace the entire inverter to accommodate the extra capacity.

Which Solar Inverter Is Right for You?

Choosing between micro inverters and string inverters depends on several factors, including your roof’s layout, shading issues, budget, and future expansion plans.

• Opt for Micro Inverters if:

• You have a roof with shading issues or obstructions like trees or nearby buildings.

• You want detailed monitoring of each panel's performance.

• You plan to expand your solar system in the future.

• You value performance optimisation on a panel-by-panel basis.

• Go with String Inverters if:

• Your roof is large and unshaded, ensuring minimal performance loss due to shading.

• You’re looking for a more affordable and simpler installation.

• You’re comfortable with system-level monitoring and don’t need individual panel performance data.

• You prefer a well-established, cost-effective solution.