CENTRALIZED CONVERSION
Central inverter (string)
All panels are connected in series, also called strings. Direct current is sent to one inverter that converts the entire array to alternating current.
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PRACTICAL GUIDE · SOLAR
Microinverters or central inverter: which should you choose?
Your choice of inverter directly affects solar production, reliability and system flexibility.
There are two main approaches: microinverters, one per panel, and the central inverter, also called a string inverter.
Here is a clear comparison.
01
How each solution works
PANEL-LEVEL CONVERSION
Microinverters
Each panel has its own small inverter. Conversion happens directly beneath each panel, one panel at a time.
02
Clear comparison
| Criterion | Microinverters | Central inverter |
|---|---|---|
| Shade management | Excellent: each panel operates independently | Low to moderate: one shaded panel can limit the string |
| Monitoring | Panel by panel | System-wide monitoring |
| Reliability | A failure affects only one panel | A failure can stop the entire system |
| Typical warranty | 20 to 25 years | 10 to 12 years |
| Initial cost | Higher | Lower |
| Scalability | Very easy to add panels | Limited by inverter capacity |
| Safety | No high-voltage DC on the roof | High-voltage DC is present |
Exact warranties and specifications vary by manufacturer and model.
03–04
When to choose each approach
MICROINVERTERS
Best suited when:
- The roof has partial shading from trees, a chimney or an antenna
- The roof has multiple orientations
- You want precise panel-level monitoring
- You want to expand the system easily
- You prioritize long-term reliability
CENTRAL INVERTER
Can be suitable when:
- The roof is simple, well oriented and unshaded
- You want to minimize initial cost
- The system is large and uniform
- You plan for eventual inverter replacement
CHOICE GUIDELINES
There is no universal solution.
Real-world context always takes priority over brand preference.
- Simple unshaded roof: a central inverter is often sufficient
- Complex, shaded or multi-orientation roof: microinverters are generally more relevant
MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE
Are you deciding between the two approaches?
Describe your roof and project to compare the two approaches in the real context.