Inverters

This unit is the heart of the operation, the box that houses the DC/AC inverter module and associated electronic controls.  There is an AC feed-in port and at least one AC-out port.  These are the functions common with all inverter types. The operation of the various inverters is explained in the solar systems section. 

Solar string inverters have no facility for connecting batteries nor for battery charging. They usually have two MPPT solar panel inputs and a grid 230V input. The AC output into the household c/breaker board is derived from a combination of the two sources. This is the most efficient system for daylight supply, I.e for charging an EV and/or daytime home industry. In the case of a grid failure there is no hposehold supply as the inverter is disabled to prevent 'islanding'. 

Hybrids might be described as the all-in-one package, housing MPPT input(s), battery input ports and AC in and output ports.  There is usually a second AC output port which supplies a reduced energy feed for critical load purporses.  

Inverter/chargers are principally used in an off-grid situation but may be configured for an on-grid situation as well, as decribed in My System. These basically consist of a mains transfer swithch, mains charger and DC/AC inverter module.  They are typically comparable with either lead-acid or lithoium battery banks.  They do not have MPPT input ports and the panels are fed into solar charge controllers which charge the batteries directly.