A solar inverter or PV inverter is a critical component in a Photovoltaic system. It performs the conversion of the variable DC output of the Photovoltaic (PV) modules into a utility frequency AC current that can be fed into the commercial electrical grid or used by a local, off-grid electrical network. An inverter allows use of ordinary mains-operated appliances on a direct current system. Solar inverters have special functions adapted for use with PV arrays, including maximum power point tracking and anti-islanding protection.

The Enphase Microinverter

Enphase has pioneered a new approach to managing solar power that makes solar systems smarter and more efficient. Traditionally, solar panels are connected together in series circuits fed into a single, central inverter device. This means that one inverter controls tens, hundreds or even thousands of solar panels as if they are one unit operating at the same power level. This approach reduces the overall system efficiency and limits the available information about individual panel health.

Enphase replaces these large central inverters with small micro-electronics that attach to each solar panel. These devices, known as microinverters, allow each panel to operate independently, leading to significant improvements in energy production and adding a new layer of intelligence throughout the system.
 

There are three major advantages to the Enphase Microinverter:

1) Monitoring: The Envoy Communications Gateway monitors the health and performance of each microinverter and solar module, and it sends this information to the system owner and installer via the Internet.     Enlighten web based software is included at no additional cost. This software allows the sytem owner to view detailed performance and analytics information about the solar system and has automated alerts and diagnostics built in. Comes with multiple viewing modes, including mobile. Enlighten software automatically identifies and diagnoses issues. You can log on and watch your solar panels earn money for you !

2) Safety: The Enphase microinverter converts maximum power from each module into standard AC electricity. There is no high voltage DC wiring, no risk of DC arc faults, and it automatically de-energizes when utility power is removed.

3) Shade: All panels are individually controlled, so if one panel is shaded, only that panel is affected, not the entire system.