I have been quietly predicting that something would come along in the realm of solar power technology that would be a real game changer and I think the microinverters from Enphase Energy might be that something. Conventional solar arrays have one DC to AC power inverter. The advantages of having a small inverter that is attached to each panel may not be obvious, but they are numerous and they are significant.
The advantage that will really appeal to the DIY installer is that converting your solar power to AC right at the panel allows you to use more widely available and less expensive off-the-shelf components. The price for specialized DC components like this disconnect can cause a bit of sticker shock.
Scalability is also more practical and economical. The conventional power inverter is the second most expensive part of a system after the panels themselves (if you build your own solar panels, it could be your biggest expense). A single large inverter can only handle a set amount of current, so a big expansion of your solar array could mean upgrading to a bigger and more expensive inverter. The innovation of mico inverters simplifies scalability.
This advance also promises increased efficiency. People are still connecting solar panels together the way they did back in the 60s. The biggest drawback to the conventional system is that an inefficiency in one panel has a big effect on the overall efficiency of the system as a whole. These mini inverters maximize the efficiency of each panel. The increase in efficiency is estimated at a range of 5-25%.
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It is amazing to me just how many people are unaware of the energy challenges that we face. Its truly troubling that so many of us either think that there is an unlimited supply of good clean energy, or just do not think about it at all. For others, solar alternatives, as well as many new technologies represent a bright light at the end of a very dark tunnel. I admire anyone, who in either a big or small way, takes their valuable time to educate everyone about their individual opportunities and responsibilities when it comes to our future, and our childrens future. When we look back twenty years from now, it will almost be unbelievable that we were even engaged in this debate. Our energy future is a forgone conclusion, and we all have a role to play in advancing us toward it.