Microinverter Solar Panel Kits

How Microinverter Solar Power Systems Work

Like PV optimizers, microinverters attach to the back of each solar panel to optimize the system’s output and allow for individual panel-level monitoring.

Unlike optimizers, microinverters do not need a centralized string inverter unit to tie the system together.

Instead, the inverting capabilities are handled by the microinverter unit itself. That means that each microinverter + panel pairing is like a mini self-contained solar power system. You no longer have to worry about sizing panel strings to match a string inverter’s power limitations.

The result is that microinverter system design is much more flexible, modular, and expandable than string inverter systems:

• Start small and expand your system later; no retrofitting or re-installation needed
• For oddly-shaped roofs, place panels on different roof facings without needing to string panels together
• Repair or replace individual panels or microinverter units without taking the whole system out of commission

While microinverters are more costly up front, they have a longer warranty period that makes them a better value over the life of the system. String inverters are typically warrantied for 5-15 years and often require replacement in the middle of your system’s lifespan. In contrast, Enphase’s IQ8 series microinverters are warrantied for 25 years to match the length of most solar panel warranties.