Two major factors determining photovoltaic inverter conversion efficiency

The conversion efficiency of a photovoltaic inverter refers to the efficiency of the inverter in converting the electricity generated by the solar panel into electricity. The inverter plays the role of converting the direct current generated by the solar panel into alternating current and transmitting this alternating current to the power company's grid. The higher the conversion efficiency of the inverter, the more electricity can be used for home use and sale.

There are two major factors that determine the inverter efficiency. First, when converting DC current into AC sine waves, it is necessary to use a circuit using power semiconductors to switch the DC current (turn it on and off for a very short time). At this time, the power semiconductors will generate heat, resulting in losses. By improving the design of the switching circuit, this loss can be minimized. Another factor is to improve efficiency by relying on the control experience of the inverter. The output current and voltage of the solar panel will change all the time with the sunshine and temperature. The inverter can optimally control the current and voltage to achieve the maximum power (power point). The shorter the optimal power point is found, the higher the conversion efficiency will be.

The control characteristics of the inverter vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, and the conversion efficiency is also different. Some inverters have high conversion efficiency at maximum power output, but low conversion efficiency at low power output; others maintain average conversion efficiency from low power output to high power output. Therefore, when selecting an inverter, it is necessary to consider the compatibility with the output characteristics of the solar panel to be installed.