Solar panels consist of a series of photovoltaic cells that convert energy from the sun into direct current (DC). In order for that electricity to be used in your home, it must be converted to alternating current (AC) using an inverter.
Conventional Solar Inverter
# Traditionally, a single solar inverter is installed to a series of solar panels to convert the direct current generated by the solar array to alternating current. The inverter is either tied into the electrical grid to meet the electricity needs of the home and send excess power to the utility company, or it is connected to battery packs charged directly by the solar panels. The DC from the batteries is then converted to AC so it is usable by standard devices.
Micro-Inverter
# Micro-inverters are installed on each panel or short series of panels, so there are multiple inverters on the solar array. Each micro-inverter converts the direct current of the panel to which it is directly connected.
Benefits
# A solar array is only as good as the output of the weakest panel. A single panel producing less wattage than the other panels in the array significantly decreases the effectiveness of the entire array when tied to a traditional inverter. An ineffective panel connected to a micro-inverter will only affect the output of that single panel, or the small series of panels it is linked to, so the overall output of your panels should improve.
Drawbacks
# The primary drawback is the cost. Micro-inverters have an individual cost that is less than a traditional inverter. However, since many micro-inverters are needed to convert all of the DC to AC of an entire solar array, the overall cost is greater. Inverters, micro or otherwise, also have a shorter lifespan than the solar panels. The cost of replacing each micro-inverter when it fails could also add up to a substantial increase in overall cost.
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