The 2023 Solar Inverter Buyer’s Guide reflects a sea change in the market, with manufacturers introducing models that meet the UL 1741 smart inverter standard and UL 3741 PV hazard control test. modules and improve reliability. From hybrid systems connecting a photovoltaic solar array with batteries, to advanced string inverters for utility-scale decentralized arrays, there are many factors to consider.
Before we get to know what’s new from the 15 manufacturers listed, here are some buying tips from product experts.
Service and Support Questions | “An equipment manufacturer is judged not only by the quality of their products, but also by the reliability of their service and support teams. Make sure the system manufacturer you want to work with has modules, inverters, machines, racks. and Balances have the experience to support their projects in the field,” said Anton Patton, director of product management and application development, CPS America.
Complete Solutions | Nhan Pimentel said: “This year we have placed a lot of emphasis on the importance of providing end-to-end solutions for our residential customers, so we are focusing on the education, training and support needed to keep end users running smoothly. .”, Vice President, Home Furnishings, SMA America.
Autonomous, industrial demand | “Solar power systems are becoming increasingly attractive to industrial users and their critical remote power needs.” Future systems will prioritize more secure control and communication functions using a variety of industry protocols to increase reliability Fully integrated (beneficial to the installer) and operational (beneficial to the end user) Pre-configured systems require less pre-installation time and are generally less expensive support. We expect this trend to continue,” said Morningstar director of product management William Mellema.
Long term installation | “Without extensive development and rigorous testing, these products are prone to failure, costing solar installers time, money, and reputation. When installers invest in a PV system, they are investing in the quality of the manufacturer and their commitment to supporting their products. My advice: research and choose a reputable a brand with a good reputation in the solar energy industry. Installers need to find a company they can trust when it comes to solar innovation, warranty, support and overall experience. The company is committed not only to quality products and technology, but also to excellent long-term service and solutions,” said Bob Wsolek, Content Marketing Specialist at Fronius USA.
Battery Planning | “With California’s new regulations, it’s time to take steps to secure battery supplies and consider their impact on the overall workflow. More battery projects will increase typical installation time,” said Josh, president of Renogy X Schlipp.
“A growing trend that we expect to become more prominent this year is combined PV + storage homeowner purchases. In California, the NEM 3.0 net billing tariff introduced on April 14 and the state’s subsequent transition to a self-consumption market will mean Adding energy storage to photovoltaic systems is critical for homeowners looking for a faster return on investment.For traditional PV installers, these trends present an opportunity to significantly increase the profitability of their business.They should look for storage solutions that offer a wide range of storage solutions for everyone needs – self-service, partial redundancy, and full redundancy. They must also consider factors that make battery installation easier and more profitable for their business. For example, faster installation and commissioning Faster batteries will allow them to complete projects faster, which greatly improves their performance,” said Magnus Asbo, Senior Director, Residential Product Management, SolarEdge Technologies.
Avoid delays | “With the solar industry on a steep growth path, supply chains will be vulnerable in 2023. Don’t promise your customers too much,” says Solis’ Terence Parker.
Choosing an optimizer | “Optimizers are becoming an efficient and economical addition to rooftop solar systems. In many cases, they can help homeowners maximize energy production and lower the cost of their electricity bills. Using an optimizer can also simplify the system. fast shutdown is required, as well as the ability to monitor at the module level,” said Chauncey Sun, senior director of product management, TIGO Energy.
2023 news and product updates follow. Click on any product name to expand that section for more information.
what’s new? CPS America has been number one in the three-phase commercial inverter market for seven of the past eight years. In 2023, CPS America will introduce its utility-scale string technology with an integrated suite of 800VAC products including 250/275kW three-phase inverters, 3-in-1 AC combiners and fuses, multiple clusters Mounting rack, AC power line a communication kit (PLC) and a 4.17 MVA medium voltage transformer unit with space for a modular battery inverter up to 2 MW. These CPS 800Vac products are UL listed and available now with lead times of 4 to 6 weeks for inverters and combiners and 22 to 24 weeks for transformer packs. Expect CPS America to see more utility-scale updates throughout the year, including more energy storage solutions and balancing systems.
The most powerful 1500VDC 3-phase inverter ever released by CPS America, the SCH275KTL includes a selectable 250kW or 275kW (factory default) power rating and 12 MPPT and is available for 36 PV string input fuses or 24 PV string input fuses. modules without fuses. string inputs. In addition to high efficiency and a wide operating voltage range, this inverter truly boasts an industry-leading operating temperature range of up to 42°C (107°F) at full output power. With CPS SCH275KTL inverters, designers can ensure their projects achieve peak performance even at elevated ambient temperatures. CPS SCH275KTL-DO-US-800 is UL 1741-SB listed. Its operating voltage is too high for UL 3741 listing (1500 VDC for ground mount projects and 1000 VDC for rooftop projects).
The new V2 version of the 36 kW (36 kVA) three-phase CPS inverter is designed for installation on roofs and carports. These units are high performance, advanced and reliable inverters designed for North American environments and grids. A high efficiency of 98.8% peak and 97.4% CEC, a wide operating voltage and temperature range, and a NEMA Type 4X enclosure make this inverter platform capable of high performance in many applications. The CPS 36KTL V2 is available with either a standard junction box or a quick-disconnect junction box, each fully integrated and removable, with touch-proof fuses, supervision, and AC/DC disconnects. When used with APS RSD-S-PLC/RSD-D products, the built-in PLC transmitter in the disconnect box provides a PVRSS-certified disconnect at the module level. The CPS FlexOM Gateway supports monitoring, management, and remote product updates.
CPS SCA36KTL-DO-US-480-V2 is currently certified to UL 1741-SB and is expected to be certified to UL 3741 by Q2 2023, along with IronRidge, Sollega, Panelclaw and Unirac.
The 25kW-208V three-phase CPS inverters are designed and optimized for use on rooftops and carports with an operating voltage of 208VAC. CPS 25kW products are supplied with a fully integrated and separate quick disconnect junction box with fuses, monitors and AC/DC disconnects. When used with TIGO, APS and NEP products, the built-in PLC transmitter in the quick disconnect box provides PVRSS certified fast module level shutdown. CPS Flex Gateway supports monitoring, management and remote product updates.
what’s new? APsystems introduces the QT2, a three-phase micro inverter for C&I applications. Each QT2 can connect up to 4 PV modules, is fast disconnected and complies with UL 1741 SA. Why use micro-inverters in commercial solar power? As outlined in Solar Builder’s recent article “Using Micro-Inverters in Commercial and Industrial Solar Power”, QT2 offers a built-in quick shutdown feature, and when combined with higher power PV modules, it outperforms string inverters in a variety of conditions. fewer potential points of failure, plug-and-play three-phase wiring and benefits: microinverters are now more cost-effective than ever before.
1. DS3 is the most powerful double micro inverter in the world. The three models cover most panel types, sizes and capacities. 2. Less equipment and low cost. Competing systems require 3 times more inverters and 60% more rooftop PV to achieve the same power. 3. Faster installation than traditional micro inverters, plug and play. 4. Built-in 2.4GHz Zigbee wireless creates a mesh network for high-speed data transmission. 5. Fully compliant with NEC 690.12 and UL 1741 SA (CA Rule 21).
QT2 is a three-phase micro inverter for C&I applications. Each QT2 can connect up to 4 PV modules, is quick disconnect, and is UL 1741 SA (CA Rule 21) compliant and available in 1728W (208V) and 1800W (480V) output models. Why use micro-inverters in commercial solar power? As outlined in Solar Builder’s recent article “Using Micro-Inverters in Commercial and Industrial Solar Power”, QT2 offers a built-in quick shutdown feature, and when combined with higher power PV modules, it outperforms string inverters in a variety of conditions. fewer potential points of failure, plug-and-play three-phase wiring and benefits: microinverters are now more cost-effective than ever before. Solar installers can now offer their C&I customers all the benefits of MLPE in an easy-to-install, ready-to-run 3-phase micro inverter kit. UL 1741-SB will be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2023.
what’s new? Hoymiles USA officially opened on February 28 as a sales and support hub for all of North America. Hoymiles is now able to offer US customers faster response times for customer and support requests, faster delivery times and localized support. Hemai’s production capacity is expected to reach 5 million units in 2023, and the deployment of local warehouses and production bases in other key markets will also be accelerated. Customers around the world can look forward to even shorter lead times in the future.
Hoymiles 1-in-1 micro inverters can be connected to a single panel and used in a variety of applications, making them one of the most flexible solar power solutions. The Hoymiles Micro Inverter has a maximum DC voltage of 60V and is a quick disconnect photovoltaic device that complies with NEC-2017 and NEC-2020 Article 690.12 and CEC-2021 Section 64-218. It is UL 1741 certified.
Hoymiles 2-in-1 Micro Inverter connects up to 2 panels at the same time and maximizes installed PV power. The Hoymiles Micro Inverter has a maximum DC voltage of 60V and is a quick disconnect photovoltaic device that complies with NEC-2017 and NEC-2020 Article 690.12 and CEC-2021 Section 64-218. This model is equipped with a reactive power controller to comply with IEEE 1547, UL 1741 and CA Rule21.
The Hoymiles 4-in-1 Micro Inverter is one of the most economical solar solutions at the modular level as it can support up to 4 panels at the same time and maximize installed PV generation. The Hoymiles Micro Inverter has a maximum DC voltage of 60V and is a quick disconnect photovoltaic device that complies with NEC-2017 and NEC-2020 Article 690.12 and CEC-2021 Section 64-218. Both models listed are equipped with a reactive power regulator to comply with IEEE 1547, UL 1741 and CA Rule 21.
The new HMS-500 series is suitable for high power solar panels and is among the best among 1-in-1 micro inverters. Each microinverter can be connected to a panel and used in a variety of applications, making it one of the most flexible solar solutions available. The Hoymiles Micro Inverter has a maximum DC voltage of 65V and is a quick disconnect photovoltaic device that complies with NEC-2017 and NEC-2020 Article 690.12 and CEC-2021 Section 64-218. It is UL 1741 certified. The new Sub-1G wireless solution makes communication with the Hemai DTU gateway more stable.
The HMS-1000 series is suitable for high power solar panels and is among the best among 2-in-1 micro inverters. Up to 2 panels with independent MPPTs and monitoring functions can be connected to each microinverter to maximize plant capacity. The Hoymiles Micro Inverter has a maximum DC voltage of 65V and is a quick disconnect photovoltaic device that complies with NEC-2017 and NEC-2020 Article 690.12 and CEC-2021 Section 64-218. The new Sub-1G wireless solution makes communication with the Hemai DTU gateway more stable. It is UL 1741 certified.
Hoymiles 4-in-1 HMS-2000C Micro Inverter supports up to 4 panels at the same time, which saves installers a lot of money. All listed models are connected to an intelligent monitoring system to track the performance of individual modules over time and ensure superior power production. The new Sub-1G wireless solution provides more stable communication in various environmental conditions. It is UL 1741 certified.
As part of the Hemai PV quick shutdown solution, HRSD-1C/2C can be connected to one and two modules respectively. It complies with NEC 2017, NEC 2020, UL 1741 and SunSpec fast disconnect requirements for PV system safety. When a Hoymiles sensor is installed and a “permit to operate” signal is received, the HRSD begins normal operation of the PV system. In an emergency, simply disconnect the AC power from the inverter or use an external starter and the PV system will go into module-level quick shutdown mode.
The Hemai DTU-Pro gateway is a data communication unit that uses a 2.4G wireless solution (DTU-Pro-S uses Sub-1G wireless) to collect PV microtransducer information and data and send it to S-Miles Cloud and Hemai. monitoring system with various communication options such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, GPRS or 4G. With the DTU-Pro, users can easily read component-level data and alarms, and remotely operate and maintain PV systems in the S-Miles cloud anytime, anywhere. The Pro’s maximum distance is 200 meters. Pro-S has a maximum distance of 400 meters.
what’s new? Enphase Energy continues to build a complete portfolio of products for the all-electric home, recently demonstrating its bi-directional electric vehicle charger that supports both car-to-home (V2H) and car-to-grid (V2G) functions. The product will be integrated into Enphase’s home power system using the power of IQ8 grid-forming micro-inverters and Ensemble’s energy management technology.
The IQ8 Micro Inverter is UL Listed as a PV quick disconnect device and has passed a cumulative on test of over 1 million hours. The IQ8 also opens up new backup power options and sales channels for customers and installers. In addition to providing daylight backup for the first time, typical size and storage ratio restrictions no longer apply to the IQ8. Installers can add batteries of various sizes to a customer’s home and expand their system over time as needed.
what’s new? Northern Electric Power introduces a new product portfolio to the US market. These are two micro inverters designed for high power panels that are gaining popularity all over the world: the BDM 1000 Dual, a 2-1 micro inverter for two panels, and the BDM 2000 Quadruple, for a 4-1 micro inverter for four panels.
The BDM series features flexible design, improved maintenance and easier positioning. Fill gaps and gaps in existing content to create customer-focused value. A key attribute is its metal housing, which avoids the more common failures associated with power electronics at the plastic module level on hot roofs.
NEP’s unique bi-directional data transfer solution gives installers the confidence that Snap-off is working as it should. This is useful for characterizing array performance during security, compliance, AHJ approval, and commissioning. In addition, NEP includes a “service mode” for IV tracking to simplify measurements during commissioning and throughout the life of the project. An optional NEP data gateway is available for remote PV panel diagnostics and performance data.
what’s new? With the new SureSines there is now a “Morning Star of Inverters”. They are based on a premium toroidal low frequency transformer providing improved sine wave stability and superior power quality. In keeping with Morningstar engineering principles, SureSine’s advanced thermal design eliminates the use of cooling fans for increased reliability and efficiency. SureSines offers complete communications options including USB, Ethernet, EIA-485, CANBUS and Bluetooth for wireless communications, as well as Android and iOS wireless utilities for configuration and monitoring from remote devices. Read more below.
As opposed to the “me too” mindset, SureSines are designed for the “critical” industrial applications that are so important to Morningstar customers. Six models ranging from 150W to 2500W, including 120V North American versions and 230V international versions. Model supports 12/24/48V battery combination. This series covers off-grid industrial systems for various applications such as rural development, suppliers telecommunications and wireless services, oil and gas. They feature excellent thermal performance and a fanless design for greater reliability – for example, the 300W model doesn’t go down to 45°C and delivers 200W at 60°C. System level integration and communication with Morningstar charge controllers. Multiple AC wired remote terminal options on select models. Listed in UL 1741 and complies with IEC-62109-1, IEC 62109-2 and CE/UKCA.
what’s new? Fronius is full of energy and enthusiasm for 2023 as its Symo Advanced inverters have received UL 3741 certification from several industry leaders in shelving. This expands the installation options for serial inverters when fast shutdown is required. One of the highlights of this year is the updated online tools for designing, monitoring and troubleshooting photovoltaic systems at Fronius Solar.web, Solar.creator and Solar.SOS. Fronius is gearing up for some interesting developments. The company has expanded and increased production and hopes to introduce future inverter product lines.
Power classes from 3.8 kW to 15.0 kW make Fronius Primo the ideal compact single-phase inverter for residential applications. This stylish inverter features a SnapINverter swivel mounting system for easy, safe and convenient installation. Even on complex rooftops with shading systems, Primo inverters provide maximum safety, reliability and the highest energy yield, giving you the best possible return on your solar investment.
The Fronius Symo Advanced inverter range is available in six models from 10kW to 24kW, ideal for commercial and industrial applications. Symo Advanced’s light weight combines high power density with flexibility to ensure your PV project is set up as quickly as possible. Few common power conversion electronics enhance serviceability from anywhere in the installation. You only need a small number of system components to achieve full system granularity. Fronius Symo Advanced includes 2 power point monitors and dynamic peak load management (shading mitigation solution) to ensure your PV system is running at peak performance and efficiency.
Yes: UL 1741 and UL 3741 listed (with PanelClaw and IronRidge shelving systems)
what’s new? Generac is committed to ensuring that its PWRcell solutions meet the needs of installers and homeowners with superior performance, reliability and flexibility. PWRcell inverters work seamlessly with the entire PWRcell product ecosystem, including NEMA 3R battery cabinets and whole-house backup with automatic switches and advanced PWRmanager load management devices. Generac also introduced its first electric vehicle charging system. The 48 amp 11.5kW Generac EV Charger is a Level 2 home charger capable of charging a car battery in just four to six hours.
PWRcell inverters are designed with the needs of the installer in mind. This bi-directional REbus powered inverter offers a simple and highly efficient design for integrating smart batteries with solar energy. Its ability to combine solar power and store DC power simplifies installation, allowing for plug-and-play operation. This single grid-connected and whole-house solar hybrid inverter simplifies solar and battery storage. Ideal for backup power applications as well as self-powered zero-export power cost management, PWRcell inverters are among the most feature-rich inverters in the industry and come with a 10-year limited warranty.
The microinverter technology you are familiar with is coming soon from the leader in home energy. Generac’s dual PWRmicro module delivers up to 720W of continuous power for maximum performance and fast installation at an unbeatable price. Market-leading throughput unlocks the potential of larger solar modules and maximizes system value over the life of the system. Combine single-module PWRmicro with dual-module devices for unrivaled design flexibility. Simplify installation, maximize productivity, and handle complex shading scenarios and challenging rooflines with the Generac Micro Inverter range.
Five key features: 1. Two models available: PM2-720-01 dual module 720W and single module PM1-290-01 290W 2. Minimizes losses due to shading and debris 3. Eliminates single points of failure Modular bus wiring 5. Conforms to NEC quick disconnect standards
what’s new? Off-grid solar provider Renogy has entered the residential solar market with the launch of Renogy X, which offers a complete rooftop system of solar modules, inverters and battery storage solutions. To make project planning more accessible, Renogy X has created system kits that also offer individual components for purchase. Renogy X even simplifies project management, order placement and more. As of April 1, 2023, California installers can place orders for Renogy X.
The compact design facilitates solar energy integration and energy storage. The web portal and mobile app provide end users and installers with access to monitoring energy cost control and fleet management. Various modes are available to control the operation of the entire system solution. LCD touch screen provides excellent product mode selection and data display. Combined with the Renogy X ESS EPS (Emergency Power Supply) will provide power to the main circuits during a power outage. Contains RGM (Revenue Meter) compliant with ANSI C12. It is UL 1741 certified.
what’s new? SMA America has recently refocused and released several new products in 2023. Sunny Tripower X offers a new commercial inverter solution for small to medium projects, while Sunny Boy Smart Energy is a hybrid inverter that offers homeowners flexibility in terms of design, backup and capacity. Beyond the product itself, the focus in 2023 will be on building partnerships through a robust learning platform and delivering an unrivaled customer experience supported by a growing service team.
Sunny Tripower X is the latest product in the commercial solar power generation segment and the new core of SMA Energy Systems’ proven business. As an end-to-end solution, the integrated system manager provides complete energy management from a single platform, while integrating the most advanced technologies in one device. This single source design ensures that SMBs can adapt to future energy management and needs. UL listing notice pending.
Sunny Tripower CORE1 is the only inverter to offer smart IV diagnostics, advanced string monitoring, and SMA Smart Connected. Sunny Tripower CORE1 is the world’s first off-grid PV inverter for commercial rooftop, canopy, ground mounting and retrofitting of old solar projects, which reduces the cost of logistics, materials, labor and maintenance, is the most versatile and cost-effective business solution.
Coming mid-2023, Sunny Boy’s new innovative Smart Energy Hybrid Inverter System will provide instantaneous energy use and storage in a single device with three modular backup options to improve power reliability. With high-speed battery charging capability and ease of installation and operation, this latest product is a powerful and flexible solution that puts homeowners in control of their energy.
what’s new? In January 2023, Schneider Electric announced Schneider Home, a home energy solution that includes solar panels and energy storage, smart distribution panels, electric vehicle chargers, and connected outlets and light switches, all powered by simple app control. Schneider Home. Schneider Home includes a high power hybrid inverter for pure solar installations and solar installations with energy storage.
Post time: Jun-16-2023