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What is an inverter and what does it do?

An inverter is a central component of a solar system. It converts the direct current (DC) from the solar modules or battery into grid-compatible alternating current (AC) for household appliances or grid export. Depending on the type, it also controls module operation, charges and discharges batteries, monitors the grid, records operating data and supports energy management. Grid-tied, battery, hybrid and sine-wave inverters are designed for different applications.

What does a grid-tied solar inverter do?

A grid-tied solar inverter, also known as a string inverter, converts the direct current (DC) generated by the solar modules into alternating current (AC) for use in the home or export to the public grid. For safety reasons, it shuts down when the public grid fails.

What does a battery inverter do?

A battery inverter charges and discharges a solar battery, monitors and manages the system and supplies operating data. It works bidirectionally, meaning that electricity can flow in both directions. Solar modules cannot normally be connected directly to it; solar power enters the system through one or more grid-tied solar inverters or charge controllers. Widely used examples include the SMA Sunny Island and Victron MultiPlus-II.

What is a hybrid inverter?

A hybrid inverter combines a conventional solar inverter with a battery inverter. It converts solar DC into household AC, directs surplus solar energy into a battery and supplies stored energy when solar production is low. Depending on the system, it can also import from or export to the grid. This increases self-consumption, reduces grid dependence and can lower electricity costs. Backup operation depends on the specific inverter and required accessories.

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Important: Compatibility between battery and inverter

The inverter and battery must be fully compatible for reliable and safe operation. Battery and hybrid inverters only communicate with approved battery systems using defined protocols that transmit state of charge, charging power, discharge power and other operating data. Incompatible combinations can cause faults or damage and are generally not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Always check the approved battery list before buying an inverter.

What does an inverter do?

In addition to converting DC into AC, an inverter performs several important tasks. It operates solar modules at their optimum power point or controls battery charging and discharging, monitors the public grid, records operating data and can support energy management. The exact functions depend on whether it is a solar, battery or hybrid inverter.

What types of inverter are available?

The main types are grid-tied solar inverters, bidirectional battery inverters, hybrid or all-in-one inverters and sine-wave inverters. Grid-tied inverters convert module power for household use and grid export. Battery inverters create and manage an AC network from a battery. Hybrid inverters combine solar and battery functions in one unit. Sine-wave inverters supply AC loads from a battery in DC-coupled systems. The suitable type depends on grid connection, battery concept, backup requirements and system size.

Should a solar inverter be oversized with modules beyond its rated output?

Some solar and hybrid inverters permit substantial DC oversizing and may simultaneously charge a battery and supply AC power. This can improve utilisation under weaker irradiation. However, once the battery is full, the inverter’s AC rating remains the limit and surplus production is curtailed. Oversizing must therefore stay within the manufacturer’s limits and be assessed against roof orientation, battery size, clipping losses and component loading.

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