Solar inverters are an essential component of any solar power system. They are responsible for converting the direct current (DC) solar panels generate into alternating current (AC). That is used to power homes and businesses.
This article will explore the importance of solar inverters, their types, and the best solar inverters in 2023 for Australia. But before getting into the best solar inverters, let’s learn some basics about these first.
Solar inverters come with a variety of features, such as monitoring capabilities, which allow you to track the performance of your solar energy system in real time. Some inverters also have built-in safety features, such as automatic shut-off during a power outage or other emergency.
Why are Solar Inverters Important?
Solar inverters play a crucial role in the efficiency and reliability of solar power systems. They ensure that the electricity generated by solar panels is converted into a usable form that can be used to power homes and businesses.
Without solar inverters, solar power systems would not be able to function properly.
Types of Solar Inverters
Three main solar inverters are string inverters, micro-inverters, and power optimizers. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of the inverter will depend on the specific needs of the solar power system.
String inverters are the most common type of solar inverter. They are designed to handle the output of multiple solar panels connected in a series or string. String inverters are cost-effective and reliable, but they can be affected by shading or damage to a single panel, reducing the output of the entire string.
Micro-inverters are installed on each solar panel, converting the DC electricity generated by the panel into AC electricity. Micro-inverters are more expensive than string inverters but offer greater efficiency and flexibility. They are also less impacted by shading or damage to a single panel, as each panel operates independently.
Power optimizers are similar to micro-inverters but are installed on each panel and work in conjunction with a string inverter. Power optimizers maximize the output of each panel, even if some panels are shaded or damaged. They are more expensive than string inverters but offer greater efficiency and flexibility.
Choosing the Right Solar Inverter
When choosing a solar inverter, it is important to consider the specific needs of the solar power system. Factors to consider are the system’s size, the number of solar panels, the location of the panels, and the budget. Deciding on a reputable brand with a proven reliability and performance track record is also essential.
Solar inverters are a critical component of any solar power system. They ensure that the electricity generated by solar panels is converted into a usable form that can be used to power homes and businesses. Three main solar inverters are string inverters, micro-inverters, and power optimizers.
The choice of the inverter will depend on the specific needs of the solar power system. When selecting a solar inverter, it is essential to consider the size of the system, the number of solar panels, the location of the panels, and the budget.
Now, without further ado, let’s discuss Australia’s best solar inverters in 2023.
Solis Inverter
Range of Solis Inverters Available in Australia
⟹ Solis-1P(7-8)K-5G Single Phase Series 7-8kW
⟹ Solis-3P(5-20)K-4G Three Phase Series 5-20kW
Performance and Efficiency
Solis inverters have an efficiency of at least 97%, which is within the typical range for residential inverter efficiency (95 to 98 percent).
Solis Inverters are designed for the harsh Australian climate. They are also CEC-approved.
Warranty
All CEC-approved Solis inverters in Australia have a standard 5-year manufacturer’s warranty. Solis offers an additional 5 years of warranty through an online purchase.
However, it is advised to contact your original solar retailer to claim the warranty in case of inverter failure.
Monitoring and Connectivity
Installation and Maintenance
Market Presence
Solis has been successful in Australia over the past 20 years, taking on big solar inverter brands like Fronius, Sungrow, and GoodWe. With CEC approval, Solis inverters have created solutions to energize the planet with renewable power.
While Solis inverters are considered a value-priced option, they have received positive reviews from users and industry professionals.
However, they may have a different track record than some European inverter brands, with more data points to prove their low failure rates and expected lifetime. Solis inverters suit customers on a tight budget.
Solis inverters offer a good balance of performance, efficiency, and affordability for the Australian market. They are suitable for homeowners looking for a cost-effective solar inverter solution.
GoodWe Inverters
Range of GoodWe inverters available in Australia:
⟹ GoodWe DNS Series (3-6kW) for single-phase residential systems
⟹ GoodWe SDT Series (4-10kW) for three-phase residential systems
⟹ GoodWe ET Series (10-20kW) for three-phase commercial systems
Performance and Efficiency
Warranty
Monitoring and Connectivity
Installation and Maintenance
Market Presence
Manufacturing
GoodWe inverters are manufactured in China, which allows the company to offer high-quality products at competitive prices. GoodWe also has an Australian office to provide local support and assistance.
In summary, GoodWe inverters offer a good balance of performance, efficiency, and affordability for the Australian market. They are suitable for homeowners looking for a cost-effective solar inverter solution.
Sungrow Inverters
Range of Sungrow inverters available in Australia:
⟹ Sungrow SG3K-D, SG5K-D, and SG10K-D for single-phase residential systems
⟹ Sungrow SG3KTL-M, SG5KTL-M, and SG10KTL-M for three-phase residential systems
⟹ Sungrow SG50CX, SG110CX, and SG250HX for commercial systems
Performance and Efficiency
Warranty
Monitoring and Connectivity
Sungrow inverters come with a built-in monitoring system called iSolarCloud, which allows users to track their solar system’s performance through a smartphone app or web portal.
This feature makes it easy for homeowners to monitor their system’s performance and troubleshoot any issues.
Installation and Maintenance
Market Presence
Manufacturing
Sungrow inverters are manufactured in China. But Sungrow also has an Australian office to provide local support and assistance.
Sungrow inverters offer a good balance of performance, efficiency, and affordability for the Australian market. They are perfect for homeowners seeking a cost-effective solar solution.
Fronius Inverters
Range of Fronius inverters available in Australia
⟹ Fronius Primo Series (3.0-8.2kW) for single-phase residential systems
⟹ Fronius Symo Series (3.0-20kW) for three-phase residential and commercial systems
⟹ Fronius Eco Series (25-27kW) for commercial systems
Performance and Efficiency
Warranty
Monitoring and Connectivity
Fronius inverters come with a built-in monitoring system called Fronius Solar Web, which allows users to track their solar system’s performance through a smartphone app or web portal.
Their app is very effective and comes with top-notch performance. The app’s efficiency and features can perfectly monitor and maintain the inverter.
Installation and Maintenance
Market Presence
Manufacturing
Fronius inverters are manufactured in Austria, which allows the company to offer high-quality products at competitive prices. Fronius also has an Australian office to provide local support and assistance.
Fronius inverters offer the Australian market high performance, efficiency, and reliability. They suit homeowners looking for a premium solar inverter solution.
