Guide to Solar Inverters
Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular in India as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional energy sources. One of the most important components of a solar energy system is the solar inverter. In this article, we will discuss the importance of understanding solar inverters in India and provide an overview of the different types of solar inverters available.
Types of Solar Inverters
On-Grid Solar Inverters
On-grid solar inverters are compatible with grid-connected solar systems. They convert DC power to AC power and feed it into the grid. These inverters do not require battery storage as excess energy is fed back into the grid.
Off-Grid Solar Inverters
Off-grid solar inverters are used in standalone solar systems where there is no connection to the grid. They convert DC power to AC power and store excess energy in batteries for later use
Hybrid Solar Inverters
Hybrid solar inverters are versatile and can be used in both grid-tied and off-grid systems. They combine features of on-grid and off-grid inverters, allowing for battery storage and feeding excess energy back into the grid.
Solar Inverters Market Trends in India
Growth Projection
The power inverter market in India attained a value of about USD 4.20 billion in 2021 and is estimated to grow significantly in the coming years. The residential solar inverter market in India is expected to reach a value of USD 2,586.23 million by 2029, at a Compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.73%. The projected CAGR for the residential solar inverter market in India is 7.9% According to a Data Bridge Market Research analysis. The report suggests that the growth of the solar inverter and battery market in India can be attributed to the increasing demand for solar energy in the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, the rising adoption of solar PVs, and the introduction of favorable government initiatives.
Solar power adoption
The solar power capacity in India has grown exponentially from a meager 10 MW solar capacity in 2010 to 40 GW in 2021. The government has implemented various initiatives and policies to promote the adoption of solar energy, including the National Solar Mission, which aims to achieve 100 GW of solar capacity by 2022. The report suggests that the factors driving solar energy growth in India include the rising demand for energy due to population growth, the need for cost-effective solar power producers, and the introduction of new and innovative technologies
Read More: Types of Solar Panels That Exist in India: All You Need to Know
Consumer Preference
Medium-capacity solar inverters with a maximum output of 6 kW are popular among consumers in India due to their cost-effectiveness compared to low- and high-range capacity models.
Top Solar Inverter Manufacturers in India
There are many solar inverter manufacturers in India, but some of the top companies are:
Here is a table that summarizes the top solar inverter manufacturers in India, along with some key information:
| Manufacturer | Type of Inverters | Efficiency | Warranty Period |
| Delta | On-Grid, Off-Grid, Hybrid | Up to 98.8% | 5 years |
| SMA | On-Grid, Off-Grid, Hybrid | Up to 99% | 5-25 years |
| GoodWe | On-Grid, Off-Grid, Hybrid | Up to 98.3% | 5-10 years |
| ABB | On-Grid | Up to 98.5% | 5 years |
| TMEIC | On-Grid, Hybrid | Up to 98.6% | 5 years |
| Fronius | On-Grid, Hybrid | Up to 98.4% | 5-10 years |
| Sofar | On-Grid, Off-Grid, Hybrid | Up to 98.6% | 5-10 years |
| Sungrow | On-Grid, Off-Grid, Hybrid | Up to 99% | 5-10 years |
| Huawei | On-Grid, Hybrid | Up to 98.6% | 5 years |
| Luminous | On-Grid, Off-Grid | Up to 97.2% | 2-5 years |
Delta is the first company to cross the milestone of 1 GW+ rooftop installations in India. SMA is a global leader in solar inverters and has a market share greater than 15% worldwide. GoodWe is known for its high efficiency and has won several awards for its inverters. ABB offers inverters with advanced monitoring and control features. TMEIC is a joint venture between Toshiba and Mitsubishi and has a strong presence in the Indian market. Fronius is known for its high-quality inverters and has a market share of about 10% in India. Sofar is a Chinese company that has established a strong presence in the Indian market. Sungrow is the biggest supplier of solar inverters and has accumulated a significant number of patents since its founding in 1997. Huawei is a multinational corporation that has established a presence in India. Luminous is a well-known manufacturer of inverters and industrial batteries in India.
What are the Price Range and Factors Influencing Pricing
The price range for solar inverters in India varies based on technology and capacity. On average, the price range for solar inverters in India is INR 6 – INR 20 per watt. However, prices can range from INR 4 – INR 25 per watt depending on the inverter type, capacity, and brand. Factors influencing prices include inverter technology, efficiency, warranty period, and brand quality
The table below shows the price range for different types of solar inverters in India:
| Inverter Type | Price Range (INR per watt) |
| On-Grid | INR 6 – INR 12 |
| Off-Grid | INR 10 – INR 20 |
| Hybrid | INR 8 – INR 18 |
On-grid solar inverters are generally less expensive than off-grid and hybrid inverters due to their simplicity and compatibility with grid-connected systems. Off-grid and hybrid inverters require additional components such as batteries and charge controllers, which can increase their price
It is important to note that while cost is a significant factor in selecting a solar inverter, it is not the only factor to consider. The efficiency, reliability, and warranty period of the inverter should also be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the solar power system
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Solar Inverter
When selecting a solar inverter, there are several factors to consider. These include:
Power output: The power output of the inverter should be sufficient to meet the needs of your home or business.
Efficiency: The efficiency of the inverter will determine how much energy is lost during the conversion process.
Compatibility with other components: The inverter should be compatible with other components of your solar energy system, such as your solar panels and battery storage system.
Sizing: The inverter should be sized for maximum peak load and typical continuous load
Do Solar Inverters Get Stolen?
Solar inverter theft is a growing concern in India. Thieves target solar inverters because they contain valuable metals such as copper and aluminum. To prevent theft, it is important to install your solar inverter in a secure location and use anti-theft devices such as locks and alarms, and install security cameras.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding solar inverters is crucial for anyone interested in using solar energy in India. By selecting the right type of inverter and considering factors such as power output, efficiency, compatibility, and sizing, you can ensure that your solar energy system operates at maximum efficiency. Additionally, taking steps to prevent theft can help protect your investment and ensure that your solar energy system continues to provide clean, sustainable energy for years to come. We encourage readers to consider solar energy as a viable option for their homes or businesses. With its low environmental impact and potential for energy independence, solar energy has the potential to transform India’s energy landscape for the better. To learn more about solar energy and its benefits for India’s future, we recommend consulting with a reputable solar energy provider or doing further research on your own.
Read More:- Top 7 Solar Inverter in India 2023
