The Purpose Of Solar Inverters

1. A solar panel system consists of many components, each with its unique function. Of course, each of the individual components is important in its own right, but even though some are optional, some are critical for the overall functionality of the system. Solar inverters are one of the most important components of any solar panel system, and they also work the hardest. Solar inverters are one of the main components that are responsible for the operational aspect of the system as a whole and they carry a lot of this weight all by themselves. As solar panel arrays have become more complex and as technology has become more advanced regarding the interaction of the solar panel system to the traditional power grid, solar inverters have also grown and evolved. There are four critical functions that a solar inverter needs to perform. The first and most basic function of any solar inverter is to convert the current that comes from the solar panels into the usable current for the home or business that it is serving. The power that comes from solar panels is known as direct current, or DC, and any modern home or business will be using alternating current, or AC, power for lights, appliances, and the like. That is why a solar inverter needs to be able to convert direct current into alternating current so that the power can be put to use in the home or business that the panel services. Additionally, should a home or business not be using all the power generated from the panels, the converted alternating current can also then be pushed back into the utility grid. The second function that a solar inverter needs to perform is maximising the power output. A solar inverter will be able to perform this function by constantly tracking the voltage of the solar panel system to identify the maximum power at which it can operate. Therefore, if the panels are under shade for a portion of the day, or something else is causing a drop in productivity, the inverter will be able to identify when and where the peaks and valleys occur and therefore identify issues before the system starts to drop in overall energy production. This is also useful when modules start to degrade, as solar inverters can easily pick up on this as well. Technology is constantly advancing and that is why solar inverters, just like solar panel systems in their entirety, are becoming “smart”. Smart inverters can communicate with the utility grid in a two-way manner, which means that they can help the array support the grid. Smart inverters can also help protect the system as a whole by adjusting the system to deal with small differences and disturbances such as voltage changes. The smart inverter can help the system go into standby during a voltage change and will even be able to switch off the system to prevent damage should the voltage change not subside. The standby mode can protect the system and the grid as the voltage fluctuations won’t impact the grid and the system won’t be hurt by completely switching on and completely switching off constantly when it may not be necessary.

2. Finally, solar inverters can also ensure the safety of the entire solar array when in operation. Electric arcs are some of the most damaging events that can happen in a solar array, and an inverter will be able to switch off the system entirely should an electric arc occur, thus saving the system from complete devastation and preventing parts from becoming permanently damaged. A solar inverter is one of the most important components in a solar array and, if possible, any home or business with a solar panel system should look into investing in a smart inverter. About Us: Springers Solar prides themselves on their quality solar installations for residential and commercial use. Springers Solar provides quality components with proven performance, backed by industry-leading warranties, and dedicated after-sales support. Thousands of satisfied customers over more than 19 years of operation make them one of the most established and experienced solar companies in the country. They have received multiple awards for design and installation, are a certified Tesla Installer, an LG Platinum Solar installer, and a Fronius service partner. Springers Solar offers an industry-leading 10-year workmanship warranty which is a testament to our qualified staff and offers you outstanding value and peace of mind. For more information on Springers Solar and their residential and commercial installation solutions, please visit https://www.springers.com.au/.