Choosing a suitable solar inverter for your solar array is pivotal.
This essential piece of equipment converts the DC electricity generated by your solar panels into AC power for home use. With a wide range of inverter technologies available, each with unique features and efficiencies, it’s critical to find a solar panel inverter that best fits your specific needs.
In 2024, the Australian market offers a variety of top-tier inverters known for their reliability and performance. So, which is the option for you? What is the best solar inverter in Australia? We’ve broken down the specs for some of the top inverter options you may find from our solar retailers to help you identify the one that may fit your needs.
Once you’re ready to conduct a more thorough comparison of various solar systems available for your address based on performance, features, and value, you can visit our Econnex solar comparison platform. We’ve got the tools to help you compare options from some of the best solar inverter brands in Australia at no extra cost.
Why Should You Care About Your Solar Inverter?
Solar inverters affect the solar panel efficiency and influence your home energy system's overall stability and functionality. The best solar inverters in Australia optimise power production, minimise energy losses, and extend the lifespan of your solar installation.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade an existing system or are new to solar, understanding the capabilities and compatibility of different inverters is crucial for making an informed choice that maximises your solar investment.
Types of Solar Inverters
Understanding the different types of solar inverters available can help you choose the right one for your needs. Selecting the appropriate inverter ensures optimal performance and efficiency for your solar power system, maximising your investment and energy production.
- String Inverters - These are the most common types, connecting a series of solar panels (a string) to a single inverter. They are cost-effective and easy to install, making them suitable for installations with minimal shading. However, their performance can be affected by shading or differing panel orientations within the string.
- Microinverters - Installed on each individual solar panel, microinverters convert DC to AC power at the panel level. They increase energy production in shaded conditions and provide better system monitoring. While they offer improved system redundancy, they have a higher upfront cost and more complex installation.
- Power Optimisers - Used with string inverters, power optimisers are installed at each panel to optimise the DC output before sending it to the inverter. They improve performance under shading and offer better monitoring. Though they are more cost-effective than microinverters, they still rely on a central string inverter.
- Hybrid Inverters - Designed to work with solar panels and battery storage systems, hybrid inverters allow for both grid-tied and off-grid operation. They provide flexibility in energy usage, enabling storage of excess energy and backup power during outages. However, they come with a higher cost and more complex system design.
- Central Inverters - Typically used in commercial and utility-scale installations, central inverters handle multiple strings of solar panels. They are cost-effective for large installations and offer high efficiency, but they are unsuitable for small residential systems and can be affected by shading.
How Solar Inverters Work?
Solar inverters play a crucial role in converting the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity used by household appliances and the grid. Here’s how they work:
- DC to AC Conversion
When exposed to sunlight, solar panels generate DC electricity, which flows into the inverter. The inverter uses electronic circuitry to switch the DC input back and forth rapidly, creating AC power that mimics the grid's AC power.
- Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)
MPPT technology ensures that the solar panels operate at their optimal power output, regardless of varying conditions like shading or temperature. The inverter continuously adjusts the panels' electrical operating point to maximise energy harvest.
- Synchronisation with the Grid
For grid-tied systems, the inverter synchronises its AC power with the grid’s voltage and frequency, allowing excess power to be fed into the grid. Inverters include safety mechanisms like anti-islanding protection to prevent them from feeding power into the grid during an outage.
- Monitoring and Data Communication
Modern solar panel inverters come with monitoring capabilities, allowing real-time tracking of the solar system’s performance. This helps diagnose issues, optimise performance, and ensure efficient system operation.
- Battery Management (for Hybrid Inverters)
In systems with battery storage, hybrid inverters manage the charging and discharging of batteries. They ensure that excess solar energy is stored for later use and can supply power during grid outages, seamlessly switching between solar, battery, and grid power to meet energy needs.
Understanding these functions helps homeowners choose the right inverter, align it with their energy requirements, and optimise their solar investment.
Understanding Household Needs for Solar Inverters
Different households will have varying requirements for energy production from their solar panels and inverters depending on several factors:
- System Size and Power Requirements: The size of the solar panel installation and the household’s energy consumption play crucial roles. Larger homes or those with higher energy demands may benefit from inverters capable of managing higher outputs and efficiencies.
- Roof Configuration and Shading: Homes with complex roof layouts or those experiencing partial shading might find microinverters or inverters with panel-level optimisation more effective, as these can maximise output from each solar panel independently.
- Future Expansion Plans: For households planning to expand their solar system in the future, choosing an inverter for solar power with the capability to scale up is essential. This might include adding more panels or integrating battery storage.
- Grid Independence: Some homeowners may prioritise having a backup power supply to maintain electricity during grid outages. Inverters with built-in battery storage or those capable of islanding from the grid can provide critical power during interruptions.
- Smart Home Integration: Tech-savvy homeowners might look for a solar panel inverter that offers smart management features. These features allow them to integrate seamlessly with home automation systems and provide real-time monitoring and control via mobile apps.
By considering these factors, homeowners can better align their choice of solar and inverter with their current and future energy needs, ensuring they select a model that enhances their solar system’s performance.
A Selection of the Best Solar Inverters in Australia on Econnex
The Econnex Comparison platform provides a diverse range of some of the best solar inverters in Australia from our panel of retailers, each tailored to meet specific consumer needs and preferences.
Whether you're outfitting a small residential setup or a large commercial project, understanding each inverter's distinct features and benefits can help you make an informed decision.
Here's a selection of some of the best solar inverters in Australia from trusted manufacturers available on Econnex Comparison (this list is not in any particular order and does not represent a comprehensive overview of all inverters available on the Australian market):
1. Jinko JK03
- Efficiency: Approximately 98%.
- Warranty: 5 years.
- Technology: Single-phase, dual MPPT, IP65-rated.
- Input Voltage: Up to 600V
- Output Power: 3 kW
The Jinko JK03 is tailored for smaller residential systems, offering a compact size and reliable performance. It's a cost-effective solution for homeowners looking to maximise their solar investments.
- Advantages: Provides robust performance with two independent MPPTs, optimising energy harvest from solar panels.
- Additional Information: Its IP65 rating ensures that the inverter is protected against dust and water, prolonging its operational life under harsh weather conditions.
2. Solis-(25-40)K-LV
- Efficiency: Up to 98.7%.
- Warranty: 5 years, extendable to 20 years.
- Technology: Four MPPT, anti-resonance technology, IP65-rated.
- Input Voltage: Up to 1000V.
- Output Power: 25 kW to 40 kW.
The Solis-(25-40)K-LV is designed for commercial applications, offering high power output and advanced grid management features that make it ideal for large solar installations.
- Advantages: Its robust IP65 rating ensures durability against environmental elements, making it suitable for outdoor installations.
- Additional Information: This inverter is equipped with anti-resonance technology, allowing for stable operation even in systems with multiple inverters connected in parallel.
3. Growatt MIN 2500-6000TL-XH
- Efficiency: Up to 98.4%.
- Warranty: Standard 10 years, extendable.
- Technology: Dual MPPT, OLED display, integrated AFCI.
- Input Voltage: Up to 600V.
- Output Power: Ranges from 2.5 kW to 6 kW.
The Growatt MIN 2500-6000TL-XH is celebrated for its high efficiency and sleek, compact design, making it particularly suitable for residential applications. Its dual MPPT trackers ensure optimal energy production even under varied shading conditions.
- Advantages: It features an intuitive OLED display and smart monitoring system that enhances user interaction and ease of maintenance.
- Additional Information: This model includes an integrated AFCI to detect and mitigate the risks of electrical fires, ensuring higher safety and system reliability.
4. Fronius Primo
- Efficiency: Up to 98%.
- Warranty: Standard 5 years, extendable up to 20 years.
- Technology: SnapINverter technology, dynamic peak manager, integrated data communication.
- Input Voltage: Maximum DC input voltage of 1000V.
- Output Power: Ranges from 3.0 kW to 8.2 kW, accommodating small to medium-sized homes.
The Fronius Primo is known for its exceptional build quality and user-friendly interface, which includes an integrated energy management relay that enhances energy usage. Its high system voltage capability allows for longer strings, reducing overall system costs.
- Advantages: Renowned for reliability, it offers robust data logging and monitoring that is accessible via the Fronius Solar web portal, helping users track their energy production and system health.
- Additional Information: The Primo is particularly noted for its quiet operation and sleek design, making it a discreet yet powerful addition to any home solar system. The flexibility of its data communication options ensures that it can integrate smoothly with home automation systems, providing a seamless user experience.
Explore Top 10 Solar Panels in Australia
5. SMA Sunny Boy
- Efficiency: Up to 97%.
- Warranty: 5 years, extendable to 20 years.
- Technology: Webconnect, Secure Power Supply, and robust build quality.
- Input Voltage: Up to 600V.
- Output Power: Available models range from 1.5 kW to 6 kW, ideal for various residential applications.
SMA Sunny Boy inverters are noted for their reliability and ease of installation. The Secure Power Supply feature provides limited power during grid outages directly from the panels without needing a battery.
- Advantages: The inverter’s user-friendly interface and the SMA Energy app allow for straightforward monitoring and system control.
- Additional Information: With a focus on sustainability, the SMA Sunny Boy is made using environmentally friendly processes and materials. It also features a broad operating temperature range, ensuring performance under extreme weather conditions.
6. Sungrow SGK-D
- Efficiency: Up to 98.4%
- Warranty: 5-10 years
- Technology: Wide input voltage range, IP65 environmental protection, remote monitoring.
- Input Voltage: Up to 1000V.
- Output Power: Offering models from 2 kW to over 100 kW, making them suitable for a broad range of applications from small residential to large commercial systems.
Sungrow inverters stand out for their reliability and the adaptability of their products across different markets and applications. Their enhanced IP65 environmental protection ensures durability against all weather conditions.
- Advantages: Competitive pricing combined with high efficiency and reliability makes Sungrow a popular choice.
- Additional Information: The Sungrow SGK-D series features an advanced cooling system that enhances efficiency and longevity, particularly in Australia’s hot climate.
7. FOXESS A Series
- Efficiency: Up to 98.3%
- Warranty: 5 years, extendable to 10 years
- Technology: Single-phase, dual MPPT, with optional WiFi/ GPRS connectivity
- Input Voltage: Up to 600V
- Output Power: Ranges from 3 kW to 5 kW
The FOXESS A Series is designed for residential use and is known for its high efficiency and modern integration capabilities. It allows for easy connection to home networks and smart energy systems.
- Advantages: Optional WiFi and GPRS modules enhance connectivity and enable comprehensive energy monitoring and management.
- Additional Information: Its sleek interface and robust monitoring capabilities make it easy for homeowners to maximise their solar benefits.
Check List of Solar Panel Manufacturers
8. GE GEP 3.0-5.5kW Single Phase Inverter
- Efficiency: Up to 98%.
- Warranty: 5 years.
- Technology: Dual MPPT, IP65 rated, reactive power control.
- Input Voltage: Up to 600V.
- Output Power: 3 kW to 5.5 kW.
GE’s GEP 3.0-5.5kW inverter is suitable for medium-sized residential installations, offering reliable power conversion and advanced features to enhance system efficiency.
- Advantages: Reactive power control and dual MPPT maximise energy production and improve grid stability.
- Additional Information: The inverter's IP65 rating ensures durability and resilience, essential for maintaining performance in variable outdoor conditions.
9. Redback Smart Hybrid System
- Efficiency: Typically around 97%.
- Warranty: Up to 10 years.
- Technology: Hybrid inverter with built-in battery management system.
- Input Voltage: Up to 600V.
- Output Power: 5 kW.
The Redback Smart Hybrid System is designed to offer a comprehensive solution that manages solar energy production and integrates energy storage. This system is particularly appealing for homeowners who want to enhance their energy independence through battery storage.
- Advantages: The Redback Smart Hybrid System integrates solar energy production and storage in one seamless solution, enabling households to use stored energy during peak pricing times to reduce electricity costs. Its advanced software facilitates smart management, allowing users to monitor and control their energy usage via an intuitive app.
- Additional Information: This system's scalability means homeowners can add more battery capacity as their needs grow, and it includes a UPS feature to ensure power continuity during grid outages. It is versatile and designed to work with various photovoltaic panel types, making it adaptable for different solar installations.
10. GoodWe EM Series
- Efficiency: Up to 97.5%
- Warranty: 5 years, extendable up to 10 years
- Technology: Dual MPPT, off-grid and on-grid capabilities, compatible with high-voltage batteries.
- Input Voltage: Up to 550V
- Output Power: Ranges from 3 kW to 10 kW, perfect for medium-sized residential systems or small commercial setups.
The GoodWe EM Series is recognized for its versatility, supporting both on-grid and off-grid operations seamlessly. It integrates easily with high-voltage battery systems, offering a reliable energy storage and management solution.
- Advantages: Its hybrid functionality allows homeowners to generate and use their own power and store excess energy efficiently.
- Additional Information: The EM Series also features a user-friendly interface and a robust monitoring system that can be accessed via smartphone apps, providing real-time insights and control over energy production and consumption.
Compare Your Solar Options with Econnex
It's crucial to consider the balance between performance, cost, and the specific requirements of your solar power system when determining the best solar inverters in Australia for your needs. Inverters are integral to the efficiency and management of your solar setup, impacting everything from the daily output to the long-term reliability of your energy solution. Choosing an inverter that aligns with your energy needs and environmental conditions ensures maximum performance and return on investment.
For an easy and efficient way to compare a wide range of top-rated solar systems, complete with inverters, visit Econnex Comparison. Our platform offers detailed insights into specifications, warranties, and technological features, making it simpler for you to make an educated decision.
Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your existing system, Econnex provides all the tools and information you need to find the perfect solar solution available form our panel of providers for your home or business. Start comparing today and take a significant step towards optimising your solar energy system with the best technology available.
