Inverter or microinverter: what choice should you make for your photovoltaic panels?

13 Mar, 2025
Solar Training

Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity, which cannot be used directly in a household. This is where a solar panel inverter comes in—an essential device that converts solar energy into alternating current (AC) compatible with electrical appliances and the public grid.

But how do you choose the right solar inverter? Should you go for a micro-inverter or a string inverter? What is the price of a solar inverter? This complete guide helps you make the best choice.

What is a solar panel inverter and what is its purpose?

A solar panel inverter plays a key role in a solar installation. It performs several functions:

Power conversion: It converts the direct current produced by the panels into alternating current, usable by household appliances.
Production optimization: Some advanced models improve the efficiency of solar panels.
System protection: A good solar inverter safeguards the installation against power surges and outages.

There are two main types of solar inverters: centralized inverters and micro-inverters.

Solar panel inverter: What is the difference between a centralized inverter and a micro-inverter?

Both the centralized inverter and the solar micro-inverter serve the same function, but their operation and installation differ.

Centralized solar panel inverter

The centralized inverter, also known as a string inverter, is connected to multiple solar panels in series. It converts the electricity produced by all connected panels at once.

✅ Advantages:

More affordable than a solar micro-inverter system.
Easy to install and maintain.
Suitable for large solar installations.

❌ Disadvantages:

Less efficient in shaded conditions: If one panel is shaded, the entire system is affected.
Shorter lifespan: A centralized solar inverter typically lasts 10 to 15 years.

Micro-inverter for solar panels

Unlike a centralized inverter, a solar micro-inverter is installed directly beneath each solar panel, optimizing the performance of each panel individually.

✅ Advantages:

Maximizes power output even in partial shading.
Longer lifespan: up to 25 years.
Increased safety due to lower voltage.

❌ Disadvantages:

Higher cost compared to a traditional inverter.
More complex installation: requires one micro-inverter per panel.

Which solar panel inverter should you choose for your installation?

The choice between a solar inverter and a micro-inverter depends on several factors:

→ Roof size: A centralized inverter is recommended for large solar installations.

→ Shading conditions: If objects like chimneys or trees create shaded areas, micro-inverters provide better efficiency.

→ Budget: A solar inverter is generally less expensive than multiple micro-inverters, but the latter offers long-term returns.

→ Durability: A solar micro-inverter has a longer lifespan, reducing maintenance costs.

Solar panel inverter: What is the price?

The price of a solar panel inverter varies depending on its power and technology:

→ Centralized solar inverter: €800 to €2,500.

→ Solar micro-inverter: €150 to €250 per panel.

Good to know: For self-consumption, a solar inverter can be paired with a solar battery to maximize energy usage.

Solar panel inverter: How to optimize energy production?

To get the best performance from your solar panel inverter, follow these tips:

→ Choose a micro-inverter if your roof has shaded areas.

→ Properly orient and tilt your panels to capture maximum sunlight.

→ Monitor production with a connected app.

→ Regularly maintain your panels and inverter to ensure optimal performance.

Solar panel inverter: Pros and cons summary

Criteria	Centralized solar inverter	Solar micro-inverter
Cost	?? (cheaper upfront)	??? (more expensive, but profitable long-term)
Performance	Depends on overall sunlight exposure	Individual panel optimization
Safety	Higher voltage	Lower voltage
Lifespan	10-15 years	20-25 years
Adaptability	Less flexible in shaded conditions	Ideal for complex installations