System Size (Total DC Wattage of Solar Panels) The first step in inverter sizing is to determine the total DC wattage of all the solar panels in your system. This information is typically provided by the manufacturer and can be found on the panel’s datasheet. Expected Energy Consumption
You can size it between 1.15 and 1.5 times larger. The rule of thumb is to size your inverter 1.25 bigger than your solar array. In some cases, you may need to use multiple inverters to meet your power needs or increase your system’s voltage. This practice, known as inverter stacking, involves connecting multiple inverters in parallel or series.
Areas with higher irradiance levels may require larger inverters for the same size array due to increased power production. The process of inverter sizing involves understanding the relationship between DC (Direct Current) from the solar panels and AC (Alternating Current) required for powering appliances. The Inverter Sizing Formula is –
The process of inverter sizing involves understanding the relationship between DC (Direct Current) from the solar panels and AC (Alternating Current) required for powering appliances. The Inverter Sizing Formula is – AC Inverter Capacity (kW) = DC Input Power (kW) / Inverter Efficiency (%)
The first step in inverter sizing is to determine the total DC wattage of all the solar panels in your system. This information is typically provided by the manufacturer and can be found on the panel’s datasheet. Expected Energy Consumption Consider your household’s daily and peak energy consumption to ensure that the inverter can handle the load.
For example, a 5 kW solar array typically requires a 5 kW inverter. However, factors like derating, future expansion plans, and the array-to-inverter ratio influence the optimal inverter size. Most installations slightly oversize the inverter, with a ratio between 1.1-1.25 times the array capacity, to account for these considerations.