Australia is an ideal country for solar power, but what is the best way to harness the sun’s energy? The right solar system can help you save on energy bills, so we give you the lowdown on how to compare solar microinverters vs string inverters and the best solar PV (Photovoltaic) setup for your home.
What Are Microinverter Systems?
Microinverters are small devices installed on individual solar panels for converting the DC power (direct current) electricity generated into AC electricity (alternating current). This setup allows each individual panel to operate independently, optimising efficiency and performance for the entire system even if some panels are shaded.
Microinverter Advantages:
Maximised Energy Production: Optimised solar panel performance for increased overall energy production and maximum solar savings.
Shade Tolerance: If one panel is shaded, partially shaded, or malfunctioning, the other panels continue to perform optimally, minimising energy loss.
Better Monitoring: Microinverters allow for panel-level monitoring, making it easier to identify problems and troubleshoot issues.
System Scalability: Microinverter systems are easy to add to or upgrade, making future expansion of your solar system simpler.
Longer Lifespan: Microinverters are known for their long-term durability and reliability. They often come with longer warranties.
What Are String Inverter Systems?
String inverter solar systems connect multiple solar panels to a central inverter in a series with wires (called strings). They also convert DC power to AC power used in Aussie homes. This type of inverter is often installed on rooftops and is a popular choice for many residential and commercial systems.
String Inverter Advantages:
Cost-Effective: Single string inverters are generally less expensive to install than microinverters, making them a budget-friendly option for Australian households.
Easy Installation: There are fewer components and wiring, making string inverters typically easier to install.
Trusted Technology: String inverters have been the go-to solar inverter system for years Australia-wide.
Low Maintenance: With fewer moving parts and simpler design, string inverters can require less maintenance over time.
Localised Monitoring: Many string inverters come with monitoring systems that allow you to easily track the solar system performance.
Solar Panel System Design Flexibility
The choice between string inverters and microinverters can greatly affect installation options and future scalability.
- Installation Suitability – String inverters are great for straightforward layouts on roofs with consistent sunlight exposure. String systems generally have lower upfront costs.
- Shading Mitigation – Microinverters can accommodate shading issues better, enabling installations in partially shaded areas without a significant loss of power output.
- Panel Orientation – Microinverters excel in various panel orientations, allowing each panel to perform optimally.
- Modularity – The modular design of microinverters allows for customised system layouts that take advantage of unique architectural features.
- System Expansion – Microinverters make it easier to add more panels, while string inverters may require more planning for upgrades.
Upgrading to Solar Power
The energy market is deregulated in New South Wales, Victoria, South-East Queensland, and other Australian regions. This allows electricity retailers the flexibility to offer great rates and special deals, including solar installation and feed-in tariffs sold back to the grid. Most homeowners have options for choosing their preferred electricity retailer. But how to know which is best for you?
That question is easily answered by using the GoSwitch energy price comparison service. The GoSwitch search tool finds the latest deals in real time from leading energy retailers and solar providers such as Enphase and Fronius. Simply enter your postcode into the GoSwitch search engine to get started. GoSwitch takes the guesswork out of price comparison so energy customers can switch to a better deal with confidence.
What Type of Energy Plan Features can GoSwitch Compare?
There are dozens of ways you can save money on power bills, and GoSwitch can explore them all. Here are just a few ways you can personalise your household or small business energy plan.
Electricity Plans – Single rate tariffs; peak and off-peak tariffs; controlled load tariffs; Greenpower. Look for no lock-in contracts, competitive usage rates, and direct debit discounts.
Natural Gas Plans – Daily supply charges and energy usage charges can apply. Natural gas can complement electricity for hot water systems, precision cooking, and fast heating.
Solar Energy Plans – Solar feed-in-tariffs are competitive, and many solar industry providers and electricity retailers combine installation as part of the deal. Combine solar, batteries, and a smart meter for maximum system cost savings.
Switch electricity retailers with GoSwitch
GoSwitch compares electricity, gas, and solar deals from trusted energy providers. The GoSwitch price comparison search engine allows you to compare prices and switch energy retailers hassle-free from the comfort of home. The search tool does the math for you, allowing you to find the most suitable energy plan for you and your family. Here’s how it’s done:
- Get started – Create a home or small business energy usage profile using your postcode.
- Compare energy deals – Use the GoSwitch energy price comparison search engine.
- Set up and save – Your GoSwitch energy expert can assist every step of the way.
It’s never been easier to compare energy plans to get the best available deal for your home and family. Inverter technology is advancing, and great deals abound, so if you want a new energy plan or are ready to upgrade your old plan, make the switch with GoSwitch. We are Australia’s trusted energy retailer price comparison service for all the right reasons, and the GoSwitch service is 100% free.
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