Inverters & MLPE
The brains of the system
The Importance of the Inverter
The inverter is the most crucial component of a solar system because it converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity which is usable by household appliances or can be fed into the grid. This remarkable device:
converts the DC to AC at remarkable efficiencies of up to 98%.
generates the greatest output by tracking the maximum power point (MPT) of the panels.
ensures system safety by managing voltage and current.
monitors performance for maintenance and optimisation.
lets you see via an app how your system is performing in real-time.
Major Brands
We offer a full range of high-quality ‘string’ inverters from 1.5kW to 110kW capacity sourced from leading brands. They are designed to maximise energy production, enhance system reliability, and offer long-term durability with great warranties.
Fronius and Goodwe String Inverters: these inverters are renowned for their efficiency and reliability, and are highly suitable for installations where there is no shade and the panels will only face 1 or 2 directions.
Enphase Micro Inverters: ‘micros’ offer advanced technology known as Module-Level Power Electronics (MLPE), which optimises the performance of each individual solar panel, resulting in higher energy yields.
SolarEdge Power Optimisers: optimisers also utilise MLPE technology to maximise energy production and improve the overall performance of your system.
Scroll down to read more on why MLPE technology may be suitable for you.
The String Inverter
Austrian company founded in 1945 and has been making the highest quality string inverters for over 30 years. Renowned for ultra-reliable products with strong performance meaning more savings.
Recommended for roofs with only 2 or 3 large aspects and no shade issues.
10 year product warranty
Optimised Quality
We consider SolarEdge to be the best value MLPE solution as it has a sharper price point compared to Enphase but offers practically identical benefits and performance.
The Energy Hub version works seamlessly with the SolarEdge 10kW home battery and EV charging options. Just a great product!
12 year warranty on inverter
25 year warranty on optimisers
Best Value Inverter
Goodwe is a mid-tier inverter manufacturer punching above their weight. With massive investment in R&D, Goodwe is the perfect compromise on value, quality and performance.
We do not install bad products because we are the ones who have to fix them, so Goodwe gets our tick of approval!
10 year warranty
Micro Magic
An American manufacturer established in 2006, Enphase has become the leading brand for Micro Inverters worldwide.
if you’re after a clean installation with no inverter or obvious switches on your wall, this is the product for you. All the benefits of MLPE technology but very discrete.
Their Enlighten monitoring app is nice too!
15 year warranty
Should you go with Module-Level Power Electronics (MLPE)?
MLPE technology offers advanced monitoring and optimisation capabilities at the individual solar panel level. This technology is practically essential in scenarios where there is shading or multiple panel orientations which will impact system performance.
With traditional string inverters, a single underperforming panel will bring down the performance of the rest of the panels on the same string and, because you won’t have individual panel monitoring, you may not even be aware of the issue.
With MLPE, every panel is operating individually and it matters far less if a panel is underperforming due to shade, debris or a fault, as the rest of the system will be operating normally. The underperforming panel will also be red-flagged on our monitoring software.
Another plus is that in the event of an electrical issue or fire in your home, the panels will safely shut down on the roof right at the micro inverter or optimiser (mounted under the panel) whereas the power will still be traveling down the wall with a string inverter, presenting a hazard to occupants and emergency workers.
MLPE technology is likely to be the best option for you but it’s best to discuss your situation with a CBR consultant.