On-grid and off-grid inverters. Advantages, usage and costs.

An inverter is a device that converts direct current and alternating current, while changing the voltage value.  In view of the use in some countries of 110 VAC, these types of inverters are available. Whether your solar system is parallel to the grid (on-grid) or separate from the grid (off-grid), a single inverter is important. Despite the existence of refrigerators, televisions and other household appliances operating on direct current, they are not essential.

What types of inverters are available?

Inverter devices are generally two types: modified sine and full sine. Solar inverter (solar inverters) is also divided into networked (on-grid) and autonomous (off-grid). In grid (on-grid) systems, the direct current generated by the solar panel must have the 220V (or 380V) network. So, the inverters in the network are full sine waves. So, making it suitable for use in our household appliances.

Grid inverters (on-grid).

In on-grid systems, solar panels are connected directly to the regulator and inverter, without batteries, converting the electricity generated in the form of direct current and alternating current. So, the generated energy is transferred to the grid through a two-way meter. This is a solar inverter for the home.

Autonomous Inverters (off-grid).

Autonomous (off-grid) inverters are a type of inverterd for personal use. That is, to use all the energy produced at the point of production. Grid-enabled smart inverters are also available on the market to prevent power outages during the winter months when the sun is less visible. However, these inverters are different from grid inverters. There can be no question of selling energy to the grid. Off-grid solar power systems for homes are so popular.

Applications of inverters.

Inverters are widely used in solar power systems, for using AC in motion, especially in caravans, boats, vehicles,  called UPS systems or solar inverters for home. Battery-powered and AC-powered are quite popular in many areas.

Types of inverters and selection of inverters in solar energy systems.

When choosing the most suitable inverter for a solar power system, the design of the entire system must be taken into account, as well as the maximum and peak power values ​​that should be used instantly.

Inverter total and instantaneous power options.

The amount of instantaneous power consumption when choosing an inverter is also determined by adding the power values ​​​​of the devices that will work at the same time. When calculating this, it is important to note that motorized devices require twice as much power as normal current during initial operation. To meet the so-called peak power, the vast majority of inverters on the market are to withstand twice the instantaneous power rating. However, if the instantaneous power consumption adds up to or exceeds the inverter power, your device may malfunction over time.

Saving up to 20% of the required power is a logical choice for long-term use of the inverter. For example, you calculated the total power of household appliances in your home as 800 watts. They may include devices that create a peak power situation. And let’s determine your current need at peak levels, for example, 1100 watts. In this case, the inverter with 2000W peak power and 2000W peak power can fully meet your needs.