Solar Inverters

/ Enabling Efficient Solar Energy Use from Raw Energy to In-Home AC Power

Harnessing solar energy wouldn’t be possible for everyday households without the hardworking solar inverter. These devices convert the direct current (DC) produced by solar panels to the alternating current (AC) needed to power homes and the grid. 

Solar inverters play a significant role in converting from DC to AC efficiently. But they also act as a bridge between the sun’s raw power and the sophisticated networks we rely on every day. 

Beyond simple conversion, there’s the responsibility to enhance the efficiency of solar panels. No matter what the weather or clock is doing, the solar inverter maintains smooth operation. 

Along with the complete solar energy system, solar inverters facilitate an easy transition to renewable power sources. According to the World Economic Forum, solar power is growing rapidly and could completely displace fossil fuels in the global economy before 2050. Solar inverters will play a huge role in transitioning to a more sustainable future.

/ Application Considerations

When developing solar inverters, there are several considerations engineers should take into account to ensure safe, reliable operation. These design considerations include:

Efficiency and Precision

• Optimized power conversion - selecting the right semiconductor technology for the job minimizes power loss in converting DC to AC and ensures maximum solar energy utilization 
• Smart MPPT technology - maximum power point tracking technology enables real-time load optimization for peak solar panel efficiency under varying conditions

Thermal Management

• Heat dissipation - components with proper heatsink design and advanced cooling systems safeguard performance and longevity by managing heat generation 

Power Quality Assurance

• Harmonic distortion control - ensuring delivery of clean AC power enhances safety and performance for appliances and the grid
• Voltage and frequency stability - advanced inverters utilize reactive power to stabilize the grid and monitor frequency to adjust output to ensure a consistent power supply

Reliability and Safety

• Robust design - all components used should be able to withstand harsh conditions, extreme temps, and high switching frequencies  
• Integrated protection - ESD devices and other safeguards against overvoltages and overcurrents should be included in the inverter design  

Safety Standards Compliance

• Electrical isolation - PV solar inverters require isolation due to high voltages on the AC grid for user protection against electric shocks and may be subject to national and international safety requirements, such as the National Electrical Code’s International Solar Energy Provisions, or a range of IEC standards associated with PV systems
• Ground fault protection - per National Electrical Code Article 690.41.1, the ground fault detection system must be capable of detecting and interrupting a ground-fault current while generating an error code and shutting down the inverter for safety 
• Global safety standards - complying with international standards like IEC 62109-1 and UL 1741 ensures the inverter's safety and performance
  

User-Centric Features

• Ease of installation - simplified physical design ensures quick and hassle-free installation 
• Intuitive interfaces - user-friendly controls enable straightforward monitoring and making fast adjustments as needed without downtime while reviewing the device’s manual