Choosing the right solar panels… can be quite a challenge. And then, while diving deep into the world of solar panels, you find out you also need an inverter. But what is an inverter, and what kind of inverter do you need? An important aspect is the amount of power generated by the panels and the amount that can be processed by the inverter. The amount of power you need depends on the number of panels, the amount of sun, and your available budget. Invert power should be determined based on solar panel power.
But why are you recommended to choose an inverted that is underpowered compared to the output of your solar panels? Here is a step-by-step explanation.
What is an inverter?
An inverter is an electronic device connected to your solar panels. An inverter is needed to transform generated solar power into a type of current that can be used around the home. The name inverter says it all: it inverts generated direct current into useable alternating current.
Solar panel power
The amount of power you want from your solar panels depends on the amount of solar power you want to generate, and the solar panels you are able or willing to accommodate. The average solar panel can generate 370 Wp. As the sun does not come out in full force every day, you cannot depend on your panels to generate their full potential kWh. To find out the kWh per panel, you should multiply the amount of Wp by 0.85.
For a solar panel with 370 Wp, this comes to 315 kWh annually. The average household uses around 3500 kWh every year, which needs around 12 solar panels to generate. If you do not have room or money for 12 solar panels, then the smart option is to explore solar panels with more power.
Choosing the right inverter
Once you establish the power of the solar panels, you can start looking for the appropriate inverter. When choosing an inverter, type is key. Do you choose the classic string inverter or a micro inverter? Using a string inverter means all solar panels influence each other. One shaded panel negatively impacts the remaining panels. A micro inverter lets you optimize each panel individually, making the most of your solar panels.
Then, look at inverter power. To optimize the yield from your solar panels, choose an inverter that has between 10% less and 10% more power than the power of your solar panels at Watt peak. This assures you of maximum inverter yield and lifespan. A power ratio of 110% (10% more) does not result in a greater yield than a power ratio of 90% (10% less). As a result, an underpowered inverter is a popular choice: the investment is smaller, but the yield is the same.
Then, look for the right inverter among the various brands. Do you choose a Sungrow inverter or a Growatt inverter? Make sure you get informed!
