The Best Solar Inverters of 2023

Solar inverter efficiency determines how well an inverter can convert the DC electricity generated by solar panels to AC electricity so that the energy can be used in our homes and by the National Grid. The more efficient the inverter, the more green energy you will get to use, which means more savings!

In comparison to Solar Panels, Solar inverters are very efficient. The efficiency of an inverter usually sits around 95-98%, depending on the brand and model.  No inverter is 100% efficient, as energy is always lost during the conversion from AC to DC. Currently, Solaredge offers the record for the most efficient solar inverter, with an efficiency of 99.2%. Allowing for greater energy production and a quick ROI.

Different brands of solar inverters offer a different range of products. From three-phase to single phase, and hybrid inverter solutions, solar inverters come in different shapes and sizes, with some brands offering greater flexibility, scalability and oversizing.

The majority of leading inverter brands now have (Emergency Power Supply) EPS capabilities. This allows the consumer to have power in the event of a power cut. Different brands of hybrid inverters support different size loads during back up mode, some systems are capable of offering full home backup whereas on some inverters only a number of Amps can be supported. 

Safety is probably the most important factor to consider when choosing an inverter. Ensuring that a solar panel system is safe starts by installing high-quality components. As solar panels generate energy in Direct current (DC), this automatically brings an element of danger to the premise. The DC cables running from each solar panel to the inverter can carry up to an enormous 600V, and up to 1,000 volts in commercial solar systems. The worst-case scenario for any Solar PV system is for a fire to occur. It’s for this reason that safety within inverters is so important.

A List of Key Safety Features of a Solar Inverter which do vary:

SAFE DC

The main problem with string inverters is that the DC will continue to flow to the inverter as long as the sun is shining. Even when the inverter is switched off. This means if you come in contact with a DC cable, you can experience a shock or electrocution. 

Inverters such as Solaredge use technology to reduce the voltage of each solar module to touch-safe DC levels during grid failures or inverter shutdowns. This minimises the risk of electrocution for high DC voltage. If you are using a microinverter such as Enphase, which works on the AC side of things, the voltage in the cable circuit is already significantly lower.

RAPID SHUTDOWN

Another key safety function you should look out for in your solar energy system is Rapid Shut Down (RSD). Automatic Shutdown ensures that the inverter automatically turns off, and helps conductors discharge at a safe voltage within 30 seconds. This feature makes it possible for first responders, firefighters, or operators working on power outages to safely work on any connected system. This is already a mandatory feature in America and the European Union and also prevents your battery from draining.

FAULT ARC PROTECTION

If damage is to occur to the cables, or if there are bad connections or a short circuit, which the current continues to flow to, arcing can occur in your system. An inverter with Fault Arc Protection will remove the fire risk from this by automatically shutting off the inverter. 

BUILT-IN TEMPERATURE MONITORING

Thermal sensors within the Power Optimisers, Inverters and Batteries can monitor and detect overheating, to mitigate the risks of overheating, some are even capable of providing cooling.

BUILT-IN SURGE PROTECTION

Built-in Surge Protection safeguards electronics against power fluctuations.

MODULE-LEVEL MONITORING

Module-Level Monitoring allows users and installers to monitor individual panel performances. Any irregularities are flagged up with a notification, and this makes it easier to pinpoint faults in a system, preventing potential safety risks.

Batteries can charge and discharge at different rates of time, depending on the capabilities of their connected inverter. The charge rate is the time it takes to charge or discharge in Amps. Most common UK and EU households will use low-voltage batteries with a discharge/charge rate of 3kW. However, we are finding a greater demand for High Voltage solar batteries, with a higher charger and discharge rate. This is because a higher charge/discharge rate means that your solar PV system can manage higher base loads and surges, and with electric vehicles in the home becoming the new normal, many homeowners are future-proofing their homes for higher demand. As we know, everything has a plug these days.

Monitoring platforms, make it possible for users to view and monitor their solar generation and energy usage. This data provides invaluable information to each customer, including how much energy is being stored in their battery, or exported to the Grid at any given time. These monitoring platforms are usually accessible via an app on your phone or web browser.

They also allow you to implement functions such as setting time periods where you wish to charge or discharge your battery, which is perfect for users on Agile or Economy 7 tariffs. For some homeowners, this is an essential addition to their system. However, for some homeowners, they prefer having an interface on the inverter itself.

If you are new to solar monitoring, make sure to visit our #TechwithTemi playlist on Youtube, to view some of our monitoring guides for beginners. This will give you an opportunity to look at the usability of some of the monitoring apps! 

Your inverter is likely to be the first major component in your PV system you will need to replace. As the typical lifespan of a solar inverter is between 12-15 years, ideally you want to pick an inverter brand which provides a similar warranty timeframe. Different brands of inverters offer various warranty periods, some exclusive to certified installers and registered products. Some inverter brands also give you the option to purchase/extend your warranty, which are all factors that should be considered. Spending more money initially could save you down the line!