Enphase Energy

• Microinverter Benefits
• Individual Panel Level Monitoring
• Limitless Voltage
• Equipment Warranty
• Compatible Energy Storage Solutions

Microinverter Benefits

Most of the inverter products on the market fall into two categories: string inverters and hybrid inverters. Enphase Energy inverter products are a system type all on its own — the microinverter. There are a number of benefits associated with utilizing a microinverter over other equipment types. 

Traditional inverters are connected to an array of solar panels. From there, the inverters are responsible for converting the direct current (DC) power that is collected from the sun and turning it into usable energy known as the alternating current (AC) power. Microinverters still perform this function, but they are smaller units that are connected to each solar panel in the system. 

That means that if a panel or a microinverter fails or is not functioning properly, the system will continue to produce and store electricity through the functioning solar panels. With traditional inverters, when one panel or inverter goes dark, the entire array stops producing power.

Individual Panel Level Monitoring

Since microinverters are individually connected to solar panels in a system, there is the ability to enhance monitoring performance. With traditional inverters, monitoring is available but on a more whole view approach. Homeowners can see how the entire system is working as a whole, but not individual equipment and connected parts.

With Enphase microinverters, homeowners will be able to individual monitoring panels which allows for immediate detection of malfunctioning solar modules. This keeps the system performing at its designated level saving more money in the long run.

Limitless Voltage

With string inverters and systems, there are voltage limits. Panels cannot outproduce what the inverter is capable of turning energy into alternating current. Fortunately for Enphase Energy buyers, this is not a concern.

Enphase microinverters are not restricted by voltage capabilities, so clients do not need to concern themselves with the number of panels installed in the array. This makes life extremely straightforward for installers potentially saving on installation costs. Additionally, with no voltage limits, Enpahse microinverters work with essentially any brand of solar panel. That is something many inverters cannot replicate. 

Equipment Warranty

Most inverter manufacturers will back products through an equipment or performance warranty for a maximum of ten years. Considering the costs and the intricacies of the Enphase microinverter, the company has worked to bolster coverage and provide clients with additional peace of mind.

Enphase microinverters are backed by a 25-year equipment warranty, which is easily one of the best and most comprehensive in the industry. Most buyers will be hard pressed to find a warranty with better coverage. 

Compatible Energy Storage Solutions

Homeowners looking to be more energy independent and considering the benefits of solar energy storage may also want to consider Enphase. Enphase offers a number of energy storage solutions that are compatible with its microinverters. Not all inverter manufacturers also supply storage solutions, but Enphase Energy has the bandwidth and technology to provide just that. 

• Upfront Costs

Upfront Costs

The only real downside of Enphase Energy microinverters is the initial cost it takes to purchase the units and have them installed. Depending on how many microinverter units will be needed for system connection, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $145 to $242 per unit. Depending on how large the system and home are, this could add anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 to the overall solar system cost.

This additional cost is substantial compared to string and hybrid inverters that will only add an additional $1,500 to $3,000 to the overall cost on average. There are performance benefits to utilizing a microinverter, but it does come at a price.