What is a solar inverter?

Photovoltaic solar panels are the most visible part of the solar energy system but connected to the panels is another critical component: the solar inverter. Solar inverters are responsible for converting DC current into grid-ready AC current quickly, efficiently and with minimal energy loss.

What is a semiconductor in a solar inverter?

Semiconductors are the backbone of solar inverters, playing a crucial role in the conversion and management of electrical energy within PV systems. Key semiconductor components like IGBTs, MOSFETs, diodes and bipolar transistors are integral to the inverter's operation.

What are the latest trends in silicon photovoltaic cell development?

The latest trends in silicon photovoltaic cell development are methods involving the generation of additional levels of energy in the semiconductor’s band structure. The most advanced studies of manufacturing technology and efficiency improvements are now concentrated on third-generation solar cells.

What is the difference between SIC and silicon inverters?

During the conversion process, some energy is lost as heat. State-of-the-art silicon inverters operate at 98% efficiency, whereas SiC inverters can operate at about 99% over wide-ranging power levels and can produce optimal quality frequency. While the 1% increase in efficiency might seem small, it represents a 50% reduction in energy loss.

Why should I use Wolfspeed silicon carbide in my solar inverter?

Solar inverters are responsible for converting DC current into grid-ready AC current quickly, efficiently and with minimal energy loss. Using Wolfspeed Silicon Carbide in your inverter can significantly improve efficiency and drastically increase switching frequency resulting in smaller, lighter, lower cost systems.

How do solar inverters work?

These topologies allow solar inverters to cater to a wide range of applications, from small residential setups to large-scale solar farms. To maximize the efficiency of the solar power system, inverters use Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms, ensuring that the solar panels operate at their peak power output.