Definition
1. A device used in photovoltaics that converts direct current (DC) generated by a single solar module to alternating current (AC). The output from several microinverters is combined and often fed to the electrical grid.
When series connecting solar panels, the string of panels work as well as the weakest panel in the series string. If you have 12 panels wired in series, and one panel is under-performing for some reason, then the entire series string will be dragged down by the under-performing panel. However, when installing a micro inverter on each panel, this means that each panel in the 12 panel array is maximised and managed independently of its neighbouring panel.
2. A micro-inverter converts the direct current of the PV system directly into the alternating current directly at the PV module. It is advantageous that module changers can react better to rapidly changing irradiation conditions, and that existing PV systems with string inverters can also be supplemented step by step with modules with module inverters.
Abbreviation
Synonyms
microinverter, solar micro-inverter, module-inverter
Superterms
Inverter
Subterms
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_micro-inverter) (1.); http://www.energie-experten.org/erneuerbare-energien/photovoltaik/wechselrichter/modulwechselrichter.html (2.)
Author: Frithjof Kühnert
