Solar Panels convert energy from the sun to DC electricity. Household appliances use AC power, in order for electricity generated from solar panels to be used by common appliances an inverter is required to convert DC power to AC power.
An inverter changes DC voltage from batteries or solar panels, into standard household AC voltage so that it can be used by common tools and appliances.
DC voltage is usable for some lights, pumps and some small appliances. Batteries provide DC power in 12, 24, and 48 volts. Solar inverters convert 12, 24, and 48 volts DC power to AC power; depending on the model of solar inverter. Some solar inverters are 'smart' and can convert either 12, 24, or 48 volt DC power to AC power.
A type of solar inverter called grid tie inverters convert DC power generated from solar panels to AC power and ties in directly to utility grid power. The power produced from grid tie solar inverters can be sold back to the utility company or offset a portion of the power used. These inverters usually require a fairly high input voltage, 48 volts or more. This type of solar inverter does not require batteries to store the power generated from solar panels unless backup power is required in the event power is unavailable from the power grid.
Grid tie with battery backup inverters have some loss in overall efficiency for feeding the grid. How much loss can vary considerably, depending on the inverter and the size and type of batteries. The efficiencies depend on the inverter model.
Inverters or central inverters are connected to a solar array, this is a centrallized approach to converting DC power to AC power. Micro inverters are connected to each solar panel. This allows each solar panel to provide AC power to the solar array.
We can assist with your solar inverter needs with our experienced design crew. Contact us with your project details and we can provide a sound solution for your solar photovoltaic needs.
