As a core equipment of solar power system, inverter is in charge of converting the DC power from solar panels and batteries into AC power for load.
So, how many solar panels can be connected to a solar inverter? This number depends on the specifications of the inverter and solar panels, such as the total power, voltage, and current of the PV strings and the inverter’s maximum PV input power, MPPT voltage range, and maximum input current.
Key Factors to Consider(Inverter Side)
Maximum PV Input Power
Every inverter has a defined maximum PV input power rating. This requires that the maximum power of the solar panels connected in series cannot exceed it.
Different inverters have different specifications. Below is a Deye inverter example for your reference:
Example: Deye 8kW hybrid inverter with an 8,800W maximum PV input paired with UE 590W bifacial solar panels
Calculation: 8800W / 590W= 14 panels, so 14 pieces is the optimal quantity.
Inverters require the PV string voltage to fall within their MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) range. Solar panels in series increase voltage, while parallel connections keep voltage constant.
Example: Deye 8kW hybrid inverter(2 MPPTs, each supporting 2 strings), MPPT range: 150V- 425V; solar panel Vmp: 42.79V)
MPPT 1: A string of 5 panels in series, 2 strings; MPPT 2: A string of 4 panels in series, one string.
MPPT voltage: 5 * 42.79V=213.95V (within range)
On the contrary, if the inverter you choose has only one MPPT and can only connect one PV string, the total voltage 14 * 42.79V =599V (out of range)
Maximum Input Current
- Parallel PV strings increase total current. The sum of all string currents must not surpass the inverter’s maximum input current ( 40A for the Deye 8kW).
Example (solar panel Isc: 13.79A):
- Two 5-panel strings in parallel on one MPPT: 13.79A * 2= 27.58A < 40A (safe)
Conclusion
The optimal number of inverter connection to solar panels hinges on three critical specs: maximum PV input power, MPPT voltage range, and maximum input current. Overlooking even one—like exceeding the voltage limit or overloading current—can influence system performance or cause damage.
Only accurate specification matching can achieve "maximum power generation and minimized failures"
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