Solar Inverters Explained: String, Micro, Hybrid and Off-Grid

Solar panels make direct current (DC); your home and the grid use alternating current (AC). The inverter converts one to the other, and it also manages how much power the panels deliver, monitors the system and, in many designs, controls a battery. Choosing the right type matters as much as choosing the panels.

String inverters

Panels are wired in series into one or more strings that feed a single central inverter.

• Pros: lowest cost per watt, simple, easy to service in one place
• Cons: a shaded or faulty panel can drag down the whole string
• Best for: unshaded roofs facing one or two directions

Many string inverters have two or more inputs (MPPT trackers), so panels facing east and west can work as separate strings.

Microinverters and optimisers

A microinverter sits behind each panel and converts its power to AC on the roof. A power optimiser also sits behind each panel but sends adjusted DC to a central inverter.

• Pros: each panel works on its own, so shade affects only that panel; panel-level monitoring
• Cons: higher cost and more parts on the roof
• Best for: complex roofs, partial shade, or systems you plan to grow

Hybrid inverters

A hybrid inverter connects panels, a battery and the grid in one box. It decides when to use solar, charge or discharge the battery and buy from or sell to the grid.

• Pros: one device for solar plus storage, often adds backup power
• Cons: battery compatibility is limited to approved models
• Best for: new systems where a battery is planned now or later

Off-grid inverters

Off-grid systems run without a grid connection and rely on batteries. The inverter must handle surges from motors and pumps and often works with a generator.

• Best for: remote homes, farms, telecom sites and cabins

How to choose

Also check the warranty (10 years or more is common for good brands), efficiency, monitoring app and local grid approval. Not sure what fits your site? Ask our partners for an independent recommendation.