Working Principle and Application of On-Grid Solar Inverters

In solar photovoltaic systems, on-grid solar inverters are one of the indispensable core devices. They can not only convert the direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into the alternating current (AC) we use daily, but can also feed surplus electricity into the grid. So, how do on-grid solar inverters work? What roles do they play in practical applications? This article will provide you with detailed answers.

Working Principle of On-Grid Solar Inverters

On-grid solar inverters primarily convert direct current to alternating current and deliver the energy generated by the solar system to the grid. Their core working principles can be divided into the following steps:

• DC-AC Conversion: On-grid solar inverters convert the direct current from solar panels, wind turbines, or other DC power sources into alternating current for household, commercial, or grid use.

• Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): Inverters use the MPPT algorithm to ensure that solar panels or other DC generators produce maximum power under various lighting and load conditions.

• Grid Synchronization: The inverter can synchronize with the grid, precisely matching the grid's frequency, voltage, and phase, ensuring efficient power transmission and safe use.

• Energy Storage Management: On-grid solar inverters can manage the charging and discharging process of batteries, storing excess energy in the battery and releasing it when needed for household or commercial use or feeding it into the grid.

• Protection Functions: They have various protection functions such as overvoltage protection, undervoltage protection, overload protection, and short circuit protection to ensure safe system operation.

• Island Effect Protection: In the event of an unexpected grid outage, the inverter can detect the disconnection and stop outputting to prevent islanding, ensuring personnel safety.

• Smart Control: Modern on-grid solar inverters are often equipped with intelligent control systems that can monitor and adjust the system in real-time, optimizing energy usage efficiency.

Applications of On-Grid Solar Inverters

On-grid solar inverters are widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, with the following main application scenarios:

• Residential Photovoltaic Systems: Inverters can directly supply the electricity generated by solar panels for household use and feed surplus electricity into the grid. This not only reduces electricity bills but also allows for additional income through electricity sales in some regions.

• Commercial Photovoltaic Systems: Businesses can reduce power costs through solar power generation. Inverters ensure efficient operation of the system with the grid and provide energy storage solutions to address power demand fluctuations.

• Microgrid Systems: In some remote areas or places with unstable grids, microgrid systems often use on-grid solar inverters to coordinate the flow of power between solar generation, storage, and the grid, ensuring local energy self-sufficiency.