What is a hybrid solar inverter?

Like regular string solar inverters, hybrid inverters convert solar DC power from strings of solar panels to AC (alternating current) power used to power your home. However, unlike solar inverters, excess solar energy is used to charge a connected battery system or exported to the electricity grid.

Do I need a hybrid inverter for my solar system?

In the old days, off-grid batteries were DC coupled. In domestic settings, more recent batteries are AC coupled, particularly when retrofitted to existing solar systems with AC inverters. This means you don’t need a hybrid inverter to attach a battery to your system. In fact, our top recommended battery - Tesla Powerwall 2 - is AC coupled.

What are the best hybrid inverters?

Sungrow SH-RS series are our favourite hybrid inverters due to their numerous features, wide variety of sizes, high backup power rating, simple design and affordability. The SH-RS series is available from 3.0kW to 10kW and features 200% solar oversizing, a digital display, instantaneous backup power, and high efficiency.

How many conversions does a hybrid inverter have?

Then when you come to use that energy, it has to be converted again (DC-AC), adding even more loss into the system. So in total, a DC coupled system has one conversion, while an AC coupled system has three. Is a hybrid inverter right for you?

Are hybrid inverters compatible with high voltage batteries?

Many hybrid inverters are made to be compatible with high voltage batteries, but you can also get hybrid inverters integrated directly into a battery. There are a few benefits to using a hybrid inverter with DC coupled batteries:

How does a hybrid inverter work?

A hybrid inverter fulfils this purpose, while also sending DC power to a battery to conserve it for later use, and from the battery when required. Many hybrid inverters are made to be compatible with high voltage batteries, but you can also get hybrid inverters integrated directly into a battery.