Micro inverter judgment criteria

What is a micro-inverter?

The micro-inverter employs a single inverter for each PV module, thereby providing increased control capability and fault resilience. Micro-inverters are typically deployed for systems where each PV module is rated up to 500W.

What are the disadvantages of a microinverter?

The primary disadvantages of a microinverter include a higher initial equipment cost per peak watt than the equivalent power of a central inverter since each inverter needs to be installed adjacent to a panel (usually on a roof). This also makes them harder to maintain and more costly to remove and replace.

Does partial shading affect the power output of a micro-inverter system?

Therefore, if there is partial shading on one of the modules, it will not negatively impact the surrounding unshaded modules power output. Therefore, under partial shading conditions, the micro-inverter system will be more efficient when compared to the centralised or string inverter systems.

How reliable is a microinverter?

While a microinverter is functionally a scaled-down string inverter, its reliability requirements are somewhat different due to its installation location. A microinverter must work outdoors with limited airflow in the heat of a rooftop, in a hot climate, and survive rain, ice, snow, thunderstorms and the salty air near an ocean.