What is a micro-inverter?

The micro-inverter employs a single inverter for each PV module, thereby providing increased control capability and fault resilience. Micro- inverters are typically deployed for systems where each PV module is rated up to 500W.

Can a micro-inverter convert DC power from a photovoltaic module to AC?

The objective of this work is to design and build a novel topology of a micro-inverter to directly convert DC power from a photovoltaic module to AC power. In the proposed microinverter, a structure with two power stages, which are DC/DC and then DC/AC converters, is used.

How can micro-inverters improve the efficiency of small-scale PV systems?

The primary solution to improve the efficiency of small-scale PV systems is the micro- inverter. Micro-inverters are connected to individual PV modules and are required to be small devices, to reduce the heat expanded onto the module and fit within a confined space.

How do micro-inverters convert solar irradiation into electricity?

Micro-inverters typically employ conventional DC-DC converters or transformer topologies to increase the low PV voltage. The conversion from DC to AC commonly uses a DC-AC inverter. Figure 1 below shows the typical configuration for converting solar irradiation into usable electricity.

What are the advantages of using micro-inverters?

The main advantage of using micro-inverters is the increased MPPT coverage which allows the individual modules to operate independently. Therefore, if there is partial shading on one of the modules, it will not negatively impact the surrounding unshaded modules power output.

What auxiliary power does a Micro solar inverter need?

In a micro solar inverter, we need auxiliary power that can output multiple voltages to A/D sample circuits, drive circuits, MCU controller, and so forth. On the other hand, the auxiliary power must be completely isolated from primary side to secondary side.