DC Power Supply Photovoltaic Inverter

How do I choose a solar inverter?

When designing a solar installation, and selecting the inverter, we must consider how much DC power will be produced by the solar array and how much AC power the inverter is able to output (its power rating).

How does a solar power inverter work?

As you likely know, solar cells produce direct current (DC) electricity, which is then converted to alternating current (AC) electricity by a solar power inverter. Converting energy from DC to AC allows you to deliver it to the grid or use it to power buildings, both of which operate with AC electricity.

What is a solar string inverter?

Solar string inverters are used to convert the DC power output from a string of solar panels to a usable AC power. String inverters are commonly used in residential and commercial installations. Recent improvements in semiconductor technology is allowing for string inverters with high power density (from 10s of kW to 100s of kW).

How does an inverter convert DC to AC?

Fundamentally, an inverter accomplishes the DC-to-AC conversion by switching the direction of a DC input back and forth very rapidly. As a result, a DC input becomes an AC output. In addition, filters and other electronics can be used to produce a voltage that varies as a clean, repeating sine wave that can be injected into the power grid.

What are the different types of solar inverters?

There are several types of inverters that might be installed as part of a solar system. In a large-scale utility plant or mid-scale community solar project, every solar panel might be attached to a single central inverter. String inverters connect a set of panels—a string—to one inverter.

How to pair a solar inverter with a PV plant?

In order to couple a solar inverter with a PV plant, it’s important to check that a few parameters match among them. Once the photovoltaic string is designed, it’s possible to calculate the maximum open-circuit voltage (Voc,MAX) on the DC side (according to the IEC standard).