Inverters and system compatibility

Common inverter types

• String inverter: one inverter for a string of panels. Usually the simplest design; shading on part of a string can reduce the output of the whole string.
• Micro-inverters: a small inverter on each panel. Each panel works independently, which reduces the effect of partial shading and gives panel-level monitoring, with more electronics on the roof.
• String inverter with optimisers: panel-level devices that reduce the effect of shading while keeping one central inverter.
• Hybrid inverter: connects both panels and a battery on the DC side, and manages charging and discharging. Some can supply backup circuits when designed for it.
• Battery inverter: a separate inverter for a battery that connects on the AC side, used in AC-coupled systems.

AC-coupled and DC-coupled batteries

Adding a battery to existing solar

• Note the solar inverter's make, model, age and remaining warranty, and the panel and inverter ratings.
• Ask whether the proposed battery is AC- or DC-coupled, and why that suits your equipment.
• Check that the battery and any new inverter are on the Clean Energy Council approved product lists, and that the installer is accredited.
• Ask whether the change needs a new network connection approval and whether an export limit applies.
• If you receive a feed-in credit under an older arrangement, check with your retailer whether changing the system affects it.
• If backup matters, ask which circuits will be backed up and what extra equipment that needs.

Compatibility and monitoring

Frequently asked questions

Learn about each option

Related topics

• Battery sizingWhat drives battery size, why bigger isn't always better, and why shifting usage comes first.
• Electricity tariffs and feed-in creditsFlat, time-of-use and demand tariffs, feed-in credits, and reading your bill.
• Summer and winter: seasonal use and generationWhy solar peaks in summer while heating peaks in winter, and what that means for your system.