Exploring New Solar Technology

Although the idea of micro-inverters has been around for many years, the expense was prohibitive, with limited reliability and efficiency.
Inverters have two main functions - converting DC power into grid quality AC power and monitoring Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) on the solar array.
Enphase micro-inverters are a key factor in improving the performance of solar systems.
No longer is there concern about where to place a large inverter.
Micro-inverters bolt directly to the solar system racking of the solar panel, resulting in maximum output.
Another plus in reducing installation costs is that wiring time is significantly reduced, and there is no need for DC switching points.
Roofing area can be maximized, and modules of various sizes and outputs can be used, with increased flexibility in relation to obstructions, shading, and dust or debris.
With traditional inverters, if one module becomes dusty, shaded or covered with debris, the entire system's performance is degraded.
In a traditional system, the failure of a centralized inverter shuts down production completely.
If one of the inverters fail in a micro-inverter system, the total system output is minimal and replacement is not critical,so it can be done at the convenience of the installer.
No special equipment or tools are required to replace a micro-inverter.
The micro-inverters within the solar array perform independently and have been found to increase the energy harvest from 5 to 25%.
Enphase's Burst Mode technology also allows for better production in low-light conditions.
Individuals who have a small solar array can easily add to their system with varied sizes of panels with their choice of output.
Each module functions independently, so modules no longer have to be matched.
Solar modules can be installed on any available roof surface without the restrictions that string design requires.
The flexibility is endless with the micro-inverter's availability for consumers and commercial applications alike.
This system does not have a single point of failure that a string design system has, where performance is reduced across the entire system.
This unique stand-alone inverter will continue to work if a module goes down or has a drop in output, and diagnosis is more easily identified and remedied as a result.
Each panel can be connected in parallel with the system, instead of in a series.
Designing and installation becomes much simpler using this method, with savings of up to 15 percent.
Detecting power decreases in individual modules for any variety of reasons is also easier since performance is monitored on a per-panel basis.
Overall, system costs are lower with increased power production efficiency.
The use of Enphase micro-inverters is expected to be the wave of the future in solar energy production.