Microinverters electrically isolate each panel, so even a small amount of shading, debris or snow lines on one solar module does not disproportionately reduce the output of an entire array. Each microinverter harvests optimum power by performing maximum power point tracking (MPPT).

Microinverters are often cheaper to install than central inverters and allow homeowners to add new panels down the line without hassle. However, they aren’t the right fit for every homeowner.

Cost

Many people are under the impression that solar micro inverters cost more upfront than a traditional string inverter system. However, the extra cost can be offset by savings on electricity costs and reduced maintenance requirements.

Unlike a central inverter that has a limit on its power output, each microinverter can produce high-quality AC energy at the panel level. This is a great advantage for homes with shaded roofs. It also means that one faulty panel will not drag down the performance of the entire solar array.

Moreover, microinverters allow you to easily expand your solar system capacity in increments of one panel. This is especially useful if you decide to add battery storage down the line. It also makes adding a new panel a faster and less complicated process for the installer.

Flexibility

A solar system with micro inverters is much more flexible than a traditional string inverter. This flexibility can be advantageous for homeowners that want to start small and then expand their systems later on, or for those that live in a home with challenging roof orientations or shading issues.

A micro inverter can monitor the performance of each panel individually and will shut down only that one if something goes wrong. It also allows for faster and more flexible defect-tracing, and it can be easier to add or replace panels because there are no limits to the number of panels in a grouping.

Microinverters also help solar systems in areas with partial shading, as they ensure that every panel can perform at its highest capacity without depending on the performance of its neighbours. This can boost energy output by up to 50%.

Performance

Solar power inverters can be used in solar PV systems that are either on grid-tied or off-grid. Using them can improve the performance of your system by increasing the number of panels that generate electricity on an average day. It can also increase the reliability of your system.

The individual panels of your solar panel array can generate more power when paired with microinverters, especially in shading situations. This is because a string inverter can only produce as much power as its lowest-performing panel, so when one panel is shaded by a chimney or tree branches, the entire system will suffer.

With micro inverters, you can track each panel’s performance through a smart application like Enphase Enlighten. This can help you identify possible problems and resolve them as quickly as possible.

Reliability

The inverter is one of the more complex electronic devices in a solar system. If it fails, it can bring down the entire system. However, a microinverter system is more resilient because it has no single point of failure.

In addition, microinverters harvest the power produced by each panel independently. This helps with shading issues and other factors that can cause panels to produce less than their potential.

A microinverter system also offers more detailed monitoring that allows you to see the performance of each panel. With this information, it is easier to identify problems and fix them, compared to a string inverter system where you can only see the performance of a group of panels. This gives you better peace of mind, especially in harsh climates where shade is a common issue.

Maintenance

If a microinverter fails, it can affect the production of electricity from other panels in your system. This makes it important to keep track of their performance and to replace them if necessary. Microinverters have built-in surge protection, which reduces their vulnerability to lightning. However, they are still more vulnerable to damage from power outages.

Solar panel installers will often recommend them for homes with partial shading because they can boost the output of a solar array. They also eliminate the need for high-voltage DC wiring, which increases safety for solar technicians and homeowners.

Another benefit of microinverters is that they allow for individual panel monitoring. This can help you identify issues with your PV system before they become major problems. If you see a “Production Issue” status on your Enphase app, it may be time for an inspection.