Yes, solar inverters can harness the free-of-cost solar energy to support those long power cuts – Now you use the sunshine to charge the inverter.
We all can agree to this – power cut is annoying. Oddly enough, the power always disappears when we are in the middle of something important. People from both urban and rural areas are facing power cuts for at least 2 to 3 hours per day.
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Now, there are several solutions to meet power cut issues. Some are easy to follow and are cheap, while some are costlier. But, one solution that I would recommend everyone is – to use a solar inverter. I bring this because solar energy is clean, pollution-free and is freely available. So let us see what is a solar inverter, and what are the types available in the market?
The solar panels installed on the rooftop of our home convert sun’s rays into DC voltage. This voltage can’t be used to run most devices in our home. Fixtures like light bulbs, fridges, grinders, and geysers need AC voltage. So, we must convert the DC voltage into AC voltage before using it. And, this is where a solar inverter will be at your help.
a. String inverter
b. Central inverters
c. Microinverters
d. Hybrid inverters
e. Battery inverters
Types of solar inverter
String inverters
Widely used, these inverters best suits for housing purpose. Every inverter is connected with strings. And every chain of string line comprises of many solar panels. For example, if there are 15 solar panels installed on the roof, then we may have three strings of 5 solar panels.
The strings carry the DC voltage output produced by the solar panels to the solar inverter. Here, the conversion takes place. But, the inverters hardly perform in case of weak sunlight.
Central inverters
The design of these inverters is just like the string inverters. But, here the strings are joined together. The combined DC voltage will be transported to the inverter to convert. The inverters look like giant metal boxes and support up to 500kW output. But, such inverters can be used for mass production only.
Microinverters
Although these inverters are small in size, they generate more power. They also work smoothly under shaded conditions. This is the reason for it’s growing popularity in the market today. But, here is one major drawback. For each solar panel, you need an inverter. For example, if you have 25 solar panels then you need 25 inverters, which needs lots of money.
Hybrid inverters
Hybrid inverters can take input from both solar panels and the battery. So, they are called as multi-mode inverters. The drawback here is that; the battery needs charging before using. Also, there are only a few options in the market when it comes to buying hybrid inverters.
Battery inverters
These inverters use rechargeable batteries to operate. These batteries get their charge by using solar power. But, they need grid power in case of cloudy atmosphere. The inverter also assists in moving extra power to the grid, which can be used in case of any need.
Advantages of solar inverter
- Reduce power bills
- Are less costly than other generators
- Easy to install
- Need less attention
Disadvantages of solar inverter
- Set up cost is high
- Need massive space for installation
- Need strong sunlight to produce energy
- Needs a battery to work in the night hours
Top solar inverter brands in India
Luminous sells a wide range of solar inverters. These inverters are ideal for running loads up to 10KVA. They help you reduce your power bills to a great extent. Microtek is one of the largest retailers of solar inverters in India. These inverters make the most of the solar energy and offer output up to 80%. The Flin solar inverters are supported by most advanced technology. Easy to install, these inverters can also work under low sunlight.
Here is all about solar inverter, its types, advantages and disadvantages. We hope that you install one for your home and put an end to power cut issues. By using solar energy, you also take a step towards the green revolution. So, think Green and Go Green!!!