Choosing between a series and parallel inverter solar energy system requires understanding the purpose of each connection type. It is not particularly smart to say that one has an advantage over the other because they serve different purposes. Keep reading to see how a series and parallel inverter differ and what specific purposes they serve.
5 Differences Between a Series and Parallel Inverter
Connection Type & Functionality
Parallel inverters are connected side-by-side, each processing the DC power from the solar panels to AC independently of the other. The final power the electrical system receives is the summation of the individual AC power processed by each inverter. For Series Inverters, the connection is from end to end, with one inverter’s output connected to the input of another. Consequently, there is no independent DC-AC conversion by the individual inverters but a sequential one, which involves the next inverter working on the output of the previous.
Waveform of the Output Voltage & Current
For inverters connected in series, the output voltage’s waveform is rectangular while the output current’s wave is sinusoidal. Consequently, the current leads the voltage under this arrangement. Conversely, inverters connected in parallel produce output voltage whose waveform looks approximately sinusoidal while the current is rectangular.
Voltage and Current Sources
Because they are designed to handle low-impedance loads, series inverters always require a constant voltage source. The reverse is the case for parallel inverters that always require a constant current source because of the high impedance loads they carry.
Benefits & Purpose
A series and parallel inverter serve different purposes and have different benefits. In situations where high energy is in demand, parallel inverters are mostly preferred because of their high power output. Besides, parallel inverters also favor redundancy in which if one inverter develops a fault, the system continues to deliver power supply. This is why most solar energy systems come with parallel connections rather than in series; doing so ensures continuous power supply. Series inverters are mostly beneficial when phase synchronization between inverters or exact voltage matching is needed. It is not a commonly adopted connection approach in solar energy systems.
Power Adjustment
Should there be a need to adjust the power of a series inverter, two methods are possible. The frequency of the thyristor or the DC voltage can be changed. However, for parallel inverters, only one method of power adjustment is possible, and that’s changing the DC voltage. It’s however possible to increase the power of parallel inverters, albeit narrowly, by tweaking the leading angle.
Bottom Line
Series and parallel inverters have their functions and benefits, which explains why the two connection approaches exist in the first place. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, which experts can help you figure out. However, whether for private or business needs, Felicity ESS is a dependable source for purchasing the inverters and batteries that you hope to use for a long time. From hybrid inverters to lithium-ion batteries, 1,2, and 3-phase high and low voltage options are available with maximum guarantee of quality and customer service.
