There are many different solar inverters available for solar energy and energy storage systems. For photovoltaic solar panels, the efficiency of the inverter for the conversion of electrical energy is indispensable, which is very common in the photovoltaic field. There are four common inverters:

  (1) String solar inverter

    This review focuses on common "string" solar inverters, which are the most popular type of solar inverter. These inverters are connected to a string of solar panels connected in series. String inverters are the most commonly used inverter type in the UK, Europe, Australia and Asia, and are growing in popularity in the US where microinverters are very popular.

  (2) Hybrid inverter

    Hybrid inverters sometimes referred to as battery-ready inverters, are similar to string solar inverters, but can be connected directly to a battery storage system, allowing for greater self-sufficiency using solar energy. Most hybrid inverters also provide a basic level of backup power in the event of a power outage but are generally not suitable for continuous off-grid use. Although more expensive, as hybrid inverter technology advances and batteries become cheaper and more attractive, hybrid inverters are more cost-competitive with solar inverters.

  (3) Off-grid inverter

    Off-grid or stand-alone power systems often require more powerful battery inverters and built-in chargers, which can be set up as AC or DC coupled solar systems. Modern, flexible off-grid inverter chargers, also known as multi-mode inverters, can also be used to create advanced hybrid grid-tied systems. Small and DIY off-grid systems use simple MPPT solar charge controllers, also known as solar regulators. These are not inverters, but DC solar battery chargers connected between the solar panel and the battery to regulate the battery charging process and ensure the battery is charged properly.

  (4) Microinverter

    Microinverters are very small solar inverters that connect directly to a single solar panel. Since each microinverter and panel operates independently, they are an excellent choice for complex roof layouts and shaded locations. Micros are very popular in North America and they are becoming more popular around the world due to the multiple advantages they offer over string solar inverters.