Since direct currents are generated by solar cells, an inverter is needed to convert the DC electricity generated by the cells to the AC electricity needed for use in appliances. Your solar system’s efficiency depends not only on how powerful your solar panels are but also on your solar power inverter. Let’s talk about how inverters work in solar cells to better understand why they are necessary.
What Are Solar Cells
An electrical component used in solar panels called a monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar cell transforms light energy into electrical energy. The photovoltaic effect is the process by which light energy can be converted into electrical energy.
In its most basic form, a solar cell is a p-n junction diode with electrical properties that change with exposure to sunshine. Photovoltaic (PV) cells, or solar cells, use the photovoltaic effect to generate direct current (DC) electricity. A solar module is created when these cells come together.
Semiconductors, of which silicon is a notable example, are used to create photovoltaic cells. A portion of the light that hits the semiconductor material is absorbed by it, and that light’s energy is then transferred to the cell.
The energy introduced then causes electrons to be knocked loose, allowing them to move around freely.
Read more: How Do Solar Panels Transport Energy?
Why Do Solar Cells Produce Direct Currents
Direct currents are generated by solar panels in a manner similar to how regular batteries work. Direct current tends to be more consistent than alternating current, and solar cells can produce it without any additional electronics required to manage the electricity.
When sunlight strikes the surface of a solar cell, it causes the electrons to flow, resulting in the generation of a current. Then, these electrons will start to move in one direction.
An A DC is produced by unrestricted single-direction flow. As a result, a solar cell can only generate DC electricity. The use of an inverter to further convert the DC form to AC is then justified by this.
In some circumstances, DC electricity may still be needed. A smartphone is a good illustration of this. Think about the USB cable that was included with your smartphone.
It comes with a small adaptor that plugs into a typical wall outlet and a cable that connects to the phone’s port. This converter transforms AC to a lower voltage that can be used because a smartphone charger only needs 5V (volts).
What Is An Inverter And How Does It Work
One of the most important parts of a solar energy system is the inverter. It is a device that converts solar-generated direct current (DC) energy into alternating current (AC) energy, which is used by the electrical grid.
Several home appliances are powered by DC electricity. The majority of household appliances, however, may be powered by alternating current, or AC.
Why do solar cells require an inverter? The power sources in our homes are AC, which operates at the standard 50Hz or 60Hz Hz frequencies. In this situation, the direction of the electricity alternates 50 and 60 times per second, respectively.
The vast majority of our household appliances run on this kind of power. An inverter’s main job is to change straight-ahead current (DC) into alternating current (AC).
You must convert the solar cell’s output to AC if you intend to use solar energy to power your home. In this particular circumstance, the ability of an inverter is also valuable.
A solar panel home kit or a portable solar panel can be purchased with some of the most popular solar inverters, including Solaredge and Enphase.
Why Do Solar Cells Need Inverters
In today’s world, alternating DC and AC power is necessary. While sensitive devices require a more direct source of electricity than the grid can provide, the grid can operate on AC power.
The sun’s energy is transformed into DC energy by solar cells. When small solar cells are connected, the DC power capacity rises and the solar panels’ output capacity is released.
To power the AC appliances in our homes, solar cells and inverters are used. A series of solar panels produces a lot of DC electricity, which is then sent to an inverter. Once converted from DC to AC, it exits the inverter. Inverters for solar panels are necessary, which is also explained by this.
The use of solar cells offers a reverse power approach. They already meet the needs of products like 12V batteries, so they will probably continue to do so. From a single cell to a large solar panel, converter programs can be both helpful and ineffective when looking for AC power.
Types Of Solar Inverters
String (central) Inverters
The oldest and most popular kind of inverter is currently in use. Like Christmas lights, a string of solar panels is connected to a single inverter. String inverters are the least expensive choice and have been available on the market for decades.
You can easily monitor, repair, or replace this type of inverter because it is centrally located on the side of the house. In order to maintain the performance of your system, it’s crucial to consider where you will put your solar inverter.
It should be in a location that is resistant to moisture, out of direct sunlight, and with adequate air ventilation.
Power Optimizers + Inverter
Power optimizers convert DC to AC with a string inverter, which is found on the back of each solar panel. In other words, if one solar panel is slightly shaded, it won’t affect the output of the entire string of panels.
They can condition the DC electricity generated by each individual solar power. Because each solar panel can be monitored separately, power optimizers also have the ability to monitor systems and individual panels.
As a result, problems with solar output can be quickly identified.
Microinverters
Directly from the back of each solar panel, microinverters can transform DC to AC. Since each microinverter handles the panel conversion, this type of solar power inverter for homes doesn’t require a string inverter.
Only that panel will produce less if shade covers one of your panels; the output of the other panels won’t be affected. Additionally, if you decide to expand your solar system in the future, they make it possible.
Similar to power optimizers, microinverters enable panel-level monitoring for quick problem diagnosis.
Why Are Solar Inverters Important
A solar inverter also provides protection against electrical dangers and aids in preventing overload and short circuit damage. Solar panel inverters will automatically shut off if there is an excessive amount of current flowing through the system until the issue is resolved.
This functionality makes installing a grid-connected solar power system a good way to safeguard your property against electrical fires and other issues.
Benefits Of Using Inverter For Solar Cell
- Charge controllers are already present in modern inverters, preventing battery overcharging and ensuring a constant 12-volt power supply.
- You won’t need to purchase DC electric devices because the solar inverter transforms the 12 volt DC supply from the battery to 240 or 120 volts AC for appliances that run on AC power.
- You can connect your device to the utility grid after converting the power into AC and sell any excess DC power you produce to the grid’s electric companies. But you would require a grid-tie inverter.
- For nighttime or overcast day battery charging, inverters also rectify AC power to 12 volts DC. When solar cells are not producing electricity, if you have an inverter, you can still charge your batteries.
Demerits Of Using Inverter For Solar Cell
The only drawback is their initial cost, which will make you hesitate before buying but, in the long run, they only provide advantages. Check the inverter’s warranty period and expected lifespan before purchasing.
Conclusions
Solar panels can run properly without an inverter. A significant amount of DC electrical energy is generated by solar panels connected in series, and this energy is then delivered to the inverter. It will then be changed from DC to AC by the inverter.