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ITGlossary · Generators and solar
PV Inverter
A device that converts DC electricity from solar panels into AC electricity for use or grid feed-in.
Technical level:Intermediate
Solar panels produce direct current, while homes and the grid run on alternating current. The PV inverter performs this conversion and, through its MPPT controller, continuously tracks the panels' maximum power point as sunlight and temperature change.
There are three main types: on-grid inverters, which feed energy into the grid and shut down during a power cut for safety reasons; off-grid inverters, for stand-alone systems with batteries; and hybrid inverters, which combine grid, battery and backup supply. The inverter's power rating is chosen in relation to the panel capacity, and the voltage and current limits of the strings must also match.
A common misconception: a plain on-grid system supplies no power during an outage, even when the sun is shining.
Related terms
- Noise (Electrical)Unwanted high-frequency disturbances on the supply voltage, e.g. from motors or power supplies, which UPS systems and line conditioners filter out.
- GeneratorAn engine-driven alternator that produces electricity when the grid fails, often started automatically through an ATS.
- ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch)A device that automatically moves the load from the grid to a generator during an outage and back again when grid power returns.
- Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)A device that automatically maintains a constant voltage level to protect electrical equipment from fluctuations.
- IK Rating (Impact Protection)Scale from IK00 to IK10 under IEC 62262 that shows how much impact energy the enclosure of an electrical device can withstand.
- InverterThe component inside a UPS that converts DC power from batteries back to usable AC power.