Q: What is the difference between micro-inverter, string inverter and central inverters?
A micro-inverter converts power at the solar panel from DC electricity to 240V AC electricity and is attached to each panel in a solar system.
A string inverter is connected to a series or “string” of solar panels and converts the power from Direct Current (DC) in to Alternate Current (AC) electricity , for the solar system as a whole.A string inverter will usually be located a short distance away from the array in a sheltered location between the solar array and the switchboard. This is the most common type of inverter used in residential and small/ medium commercial systems in NZ.
A central inverter is a high capacity inverter designed for use with large commercial or utility (power station) sized solar systems. It is like large string inverter designed to handle more power and offer efficiencies/ economies of scale.