In the world of solar energy, manufacturers are consistently unveiling advanced grid-tie solar inverters with enhanced online monitoring and smart home energy management features. This evolution has intensified the competition for the title of the best grid-tie solar inverter. Simultaneously, the growing interest in home batteries highlights the pivotal role that solar inverters play in facilitating solar charging. The global photovoltaic inverter shipments experienced a remarkable surge in 2023, reaching near 390GW. This marked a substantial increase of Approx 60GW from the previous year, reflecting an impressive annual growth rate of approximately 20%. Projections for 2024 indicate sustained growth, with global photovoltaic inverter shipments expected to reach 440GW, affirming the ongoing upward trajectory in inverter shipments.
it becomes crucial to identify the leading inverter companies globally.in This article we provide insights into the top 10 solar inverters in the world in 2024.
The inception of inverters traces back to the late 19th century, with their evolution extending well into the mid-20th century. The 21st century ushered in the era of residential solar systems, catalyzed by the invention of the first solar inverter by scientists at Sandia Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Solar inverters have become indispensable components of solar panel systems, yet the multitude of available brands can be overwhelming. To alleviate this confusion, we present a comprehensive list of the top 10 solar inverters globally, accompanied by insights into the top 10 solar inverter manufacturers worldwide. This comprehensive overview also encompasses the largest solar inverter manufacturers and the most reputable solar inverter brands, offering valuable insights into the current state of the industry.
top 10 solar inverters in the world in 2024.
Table of Contents
1. SolarEdge Home Hub
In recent years, inverters have gained immense popularity not only in Australia and the USA but globally, thanks to their innovative design incorporating DC optimizers. This unique approach allows for individual solar panel-level power optimization and control, revolutionizing the efficiency of solar energy systems.
Enter the SolarEdge Home Hub inverters, compact powerhouses ranging from 3kW to 10kW. What sets them apart is the requirement for an additional DC optimizer for each panel. While this adds to the initial cost, these optimizers play a crucial role, performing tasks akin to a traditional string inverter but with added perks. These include panel-level monitoring and power optimization, ensuring each panel operates at its peak power level.
The SolarEdge DC Optimizers are compact electronic modules seamlessly attached to the back of each solar panel. Their mission: to unlock the maximum power potential of each panel, contributing to the overall efficiency of the solar energy system.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. SolarEdge Home Hub inverters offer increased system capacity with an impressive up to 200% DC oversizing capability. Additionally, they allow the connection of up to three SolarEdge Home Batteries per inverter, providing flexibility and enhanced energy storage options.
When it comes to monitoring, SolarEdge doesn’t disappoint. While the inverters come with ‘optional’ Wi-Fi, when combined with the optimizers, they deliver detailed power output data for each panel individually. This feature is a boon for system monitoring, offering an invaluable tool for fault detection, particularly beneficial for installers ensuring optimal system performance.
What truly sets SolarEdge apart is its commitment to user-friendly monitoring. The MySolarEdge App stands out as one of the best smartphone apps for remote system monitoring. This free cloud-based portal provides comprehensive insights into solar generation and consumption, putting the power of information right at your fingertips.
In a world where solar energy efficiency is paramount, SolarEdge emerges as a leader, seamlessly blending innovation and performance for a brighter and more sustainable future.
2.Fronius GEN24
Fronius GEN24 comes with an integrated basic backup power supply in the form of the PV Point, its advanced counterpart, the Fronius GEN24 Plus, takes it up a notch. This powerhouse can deliver a comprehensive Full Backup power supply through a connected battery storage system.
Reliability is key when it comes to your energy supply, and the Fronius GEN24 understands that. The integrated basic backup power supply ensures that connected devices receive backup power of up to 3 kW via the PV Point socket, as long as the sun is shining. It’s not just a feature; it’s a commitment to keeping your energy flowing.
With both the PV Point and Full Backup options, the Fronius GEN24 Plus provides versatility in backup power. Whether you need a power supply for loads of up to 3 kW via a single socket or a backup power supply for your entire home, including heavy-duty appliances like heat pumps, the GEN24 Plus has you covered.
When it comes to peace of mind, Fronius has you covered with a base warranty of five years. But here’s the kicker – register your inverter online, and you unlock an additional five-year extended warranty, totaling a full 10-year coverage.
Monitoring your energy system becomes a breeze with Fronius. All inverters come standard with Wi-Fi monitoring through the Fronius Solarweb. For a more comprehensive approach, consider adding the Fronius Smart meter to your setup. This not only allows you to monitor energy generation and consumption but transforms your inverter into a complete home energy monitoring system.Fronius Solarweb app puts all this data at your fingertips, displaying solar generation, consumption, and estimated savings.
3. Sungrow SG Series
Established in 1997 under the guidance of a university professor, Sungrow has evolved into one of the globe’s premier suppliers of solar inverters and stands as a leading Chinese inverter manufacturer. Particularly renowned for its residential SG range, Sungrow has garnered widespread acclaim owing to its competitive pricing, stellar reliability, and a well-earned reputation for outstanding service and quality. Notably, the Sydney-based office in Australia has played a pivotal role in enhancing Sungrow’s standing by providing exemplary support.
The previous SG series inverters and the SH5K-30 hybrid have consistently earned high praise, offering exceptional value for money and backed by an extended 10-year warranty. Taking innovation a step further, the new SG-RS series string inverters, sharing the same advanced inverter architecture as the SH-RS hybrid, boast a smart PID recovery function. This feature mitigates or eradicates potential induced degradation (PID) in solar panels, coupled with an IV curve scan that aids in identifying any faults in the solar panel system. The ADA version goes above and beyond with 3 x MPPTs, allowing it to effectively utilize three independent strings of panels, perfect for intricate rooftops or areas with partial shading.
A standout feature across Sungrow inverters is the inclusion of Wi-Fi monitoring as a standard feature on all models. Leveraging the iSolarCloud, a cloud-based monitoring portal, Sungrow provides an excellent user experience with added functionalities like solar forecasting and remote firmware upgrades. Complementing this, the free smartphone app, with its simplicity and efficacy, further enhances the monitoring and management of solar energy systems.
In the dynamic landscape of solar technology, Sungrow emerges not just as a supplier but as a reliable partner, committed to advancing solar solutions with unwavering quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
4. SMA Sunny Boy
SMA Solar Technologies, a distinguished German manufacturer, once held the title of the best string inverter manufacturer until the Fronius snap-in series claimed the spotlight in 2016. However, SMA made a noteworthy comeback with the introduction of the Sunny Boy AV series, regaining market share after relocating all manufacturing operations back to Germany in 2019. Renowned for their reliability, SMA inverters are often considered among the highest-quality options available in the market. The company’s commitment to excellence is further emphasized by its local service and support, with the added advantage of an optional 10 to 20-year extended warranty for consumers seeking extended peace of mind.
The AV inverter series from SMA, like many modern inverters, opts for a display-less design, relying solely on Wi-Fi communication for setup and monitoring. This trend is seen as a strategic move, as traditional outdoor displays can face durability challenges over time. While the display-less approach aims to minimize faults and warranty issues in the long run, it’s contingent on the reliability and stability of Wi-Fi communication.
SMA offers a complimentary online monitoring package known as the Sunny Portal, and most SMA inverters now come equipped with Wi-Fi web connect capability as a standard feature. For comprehensive consumption and solar monitoring, the Sunny Home Manager 2.0 energy meter is available, albeit at a relatively higher cost. Addressing past concerns, SMA has introduced the new SMA Energy App, designed to overcome previous issues associated with the older mobile app, particularly on the Android platform. The revamped SMA 360° App further streamlines the setup and commissioning process for installers, contributing to an improved user experience.
In a competitive landscape where innovation meets reliability, SMA Solar Technologies stands as a testament to German engineering prowess, continually refining its offerings to meet evolving industry standards.
5. Huawei LUNA2000
In 2018, Huawei, a major player in the global communications industry, made a significant entry into the residential solar market, unveiling a compact and feature-packed solar inverter. Boasting immense success in the commercial and utility-scale inverter sectors on a global scale, Huawei has solidified its position as one of the world’s largest solar inverter manufacturers. With billions invested in research and development over the past decade, Huawei has become synonymous with innovation and cutting-edge technology in the solar energy landscape.
The SUN2000L1 inverters from Huawei go beyond conventional functions, doubling as hybrid inverters. They seamlessly integrate with the SUN2000-450W-P2 optimizers and the Huawei LUNA2000 battery. Drawing parallels with the SolarEdge inverter, which employs optimizers for individual panel optimization similar to microinverters, Huawei’s inverters stand out by offering flexibility, functioning effectively with or without optimizers. The compatibility extends to the Huawei high-voltage modular LUNA2000 battery system, though an additional backup box becomes necessary for backup power during blackouts.
Keeping pace with technological advancements, Huawei introduces the latest FusionSolar app and online monitoring portal, surpassing its predecessor, the FusionHome app. This updated interface presents users with an easily readable display and incorporates numerous advanced monitoring and data-logging features. The FusionSolar app not only serves as a monitoring tool but also facilitates inverter setup and direct connection via a local Wi-Fi network, providing users with seamless control and monitoring capabilities.
As Huawei continues to shape the solar energy landscape with its state-of-the-art solutions, it reaffirms its commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology, reliability, and user-friendly interfaces, setting new standards in the residential solar market.
6. GoodWe DNS-G3 Series
Founded in 2010, GoodWe has emerged as a prominent Chinese inverter manufacturer, renowned for its extensive range of cost-effective solar and hybrid inverters. The older DNS series gained acclaim for its affordability, featuring a commendable MPPT voltage range and an LCD display that received positive feedback from installers. In 2023, GoodWe took it a step further with the release of the DNS-G3 series, built on the same reliable platform but now boasting a significantly higher input current rating, an expanded MPPT operating window, and an impressively low 50V startup voltage.
Noteworthy is the collaboration between GoodWe and the global electronics giant GE, resulting in a range of high-performance solar inverters based on the 5 to 10kW GoodWe MS series inverter platform. These innovative inverters incorporate up to four independent MPPTs, showcasing the commitment to cutting-edge technology. Additionally, a unique 3 to 5kW inverter featuring a high-resolution OLED display is part of this collaborative venture.
GoodWe has also made significant strides in the realm of energy storage, offering a diverse array of AC and DC-coupled hybrid inverters. The ES series hybrid inverter stands out as a flagship product, earning recognition within the industry. Many manufacturers integrate this robust hybrid platform into various battery energy storage systems (ESS), highlighting its versatility and effectiveness.
Wi-Fi monitoring comes standard with all GoodWe inverters, enhancing user convenience and providing real-time insights. The warranty on the DNS series is an impressive ten years, with options for extension up to 25 years, showcasing GoodWe’s commitment to product durability. The GoodWe SEMS system monitoring portal, while offering detailed insights into PV and energy storage systems, may pose a slight challenge in terms of navigation.
7. General Electric GEP series
In 2021, General Electric (GE) made a noteworthy entrance into the residential solar inverter market through a collaborative effort with established manufacturer Goodwe. Leveraging GE’s extensive experience in utility-scale renewable power systems and Goodwe’s expertise in solar inverters, this partnership introduced a range of innovative features to the market. Notable among these is the high-resolution color display featured on the unique GEP 3.6-5kW inverter, setting it apart. The GEH model, another standout, incorporates up to four Maximum Power Point Trackers (MPPTs), catering to larger and more complex rooftops.
The collaboration resulted in inverters equipped with features such as inbuilt export control, a high MPPT input current rating to accommodate the larger and more powerful panels prevalent in today’s market. With several years in the industry, GE inverters have garnered positive feedback, maintaining quality on par with leading manufacturers. Interestingly, certain models in the GE range boast a 200% solar oversizing rating, a feature likely shared with equivalent Goodwe models.
For the US market, GE’s range includes inverters with rapid shutdown features compatible with Tigo and APS module-level add-on devices. Hybrid inverter options are also available, mirroring Goodwe’s range on which they are based. Although precise differences between some GE and Goodwe models may be challenging to discern from specifications and datasheets, the ongoing updates to Goodwe’s inverter range suggest potential variations in the future GE releases.
Notably, GE utilizes the same SEMS system monitoring portal developed by Goodwe. The SEMS platform stands out for its simplicity and user-friendly interface, providing effective monitoring for both PV and energy storage systems. For those who prefer a visual display for monitoring, the high-resolution color display on the 3.6 to 5kW models is hailed as one of the best available, enhancing the user experience. As the collaboration between GE and Goodwe continues to evolve, it remains an exciting space to watch for further innovations in the residential solar inverter market.
8. Sunways STS Series
Sunways, formerly known as Sunways AG, is a Germany based compeny, founded in 1993. In 2014, the company underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by Shunfeng International Clean Energy Group, the parent company of Suntech, based in China. Although Sunways may not be widely recognized outside of Europe, it boasts nearly 30 years of experience in research, development, and innovation in manufacturing PV inverters and solar energy storage systems.
The latest generation of Sunways inverters, the STS series ranging from 3 to 6kW, is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation. Packed with features, these inverters include an inbuilt DC isolator, an integrated meter for export limiting (external CT), a clear OLED display, and dual Maximum Power Point Trackers (MPPTs) with a wide operating voltage range. Despite being claimed to be German-engineered, Sunways inverters are highly affordable due to their manufacturing in China.they come with an industry-leading 12-year product warranty, providing users peace of mind. The STS series is also available in a larger, high-power model ranging from 7kW to 11kW. This larger model features a 40A input current limit on the second MPPT, facilitating parallel strings for more extensive solar arrays.
While the Sunways monitoring platform offers typical generation data, it is worth noting that some users find the interface to be on the darker side, and reading certain charts can be challenging. Nevertheless, Sunways continues to make strides in providing affordable and reliable solar solutions, leveraging its extensive experience and the backing of Shunfeng International Clean Energy Group.
9. Fimer UNO
FIMER,is a Italian inverter manufacturer, made significant strides in the solar industry by acquiring ABB’s solar division in 4 year ago. Since then, FIMER has been diligently revamping ABB-style inverters, expanding its product range to include high-quality string solar inverters suitable for residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications.
The takeover and positive reception of the new UNO-TL and UNO-TL-DM-PLUS inverters suggest that FIMER is poised to maintain and strengthen its position in the market. Notable in the UNO series is its capability to accept parallel strings of panels, featuring an impressive 32A MPPT input current rating on one of its two MPPTs. This high rating allows the UNO series to handle three individual strings of panels with different orientations, adding versatility to its applications.
The UNO range stands out with a common plug-and-play interface and Wi-Fi included in all models, emphasizing user-friendly design. In response to the growing demand for energy storage solutions, FIMER introduces the second generation REACT 2 hybrid inverters. These unique modular battery energy storage systems (BESS) can be configured for either AC or DC coupling, providing flexibility to meet diverse energy storage needs.
To enhance monitoring capabilities, FIMER introduces the new FIMER Spa App and Energy Viewer platform, a substantial improvement that offers more detailed information when used with an energy meter. While it provides valuable insights, it’s worth noting that the platform still has limitations, lacking certain technical data such as individual string generation or voltages. This detailed information can be crucial for efficient panel monitoring and troubleshooting. Additionally, for older UNO and TRIO (3-phase) inverters, a Wifi logger card (VSN300) can be installed to enable monitoring, demonstrating FIMER’s commitment to backward compatibility and user convenience.
As FIMER continues to evolve and innovate, it solidifies its position as a key player in the solar inverter market, offering a range of solutions that balance reliability, functionality, and user-friendly design.
10. Delta Home Series
Delta, a global electronics giant with a history dating back to 1971, has earned a positive reputation among solar installers, particularly for their newer Delta Home Series inverters. While the earlier RPI range didn’t make a significant impact, the Delta Home Series is gaining recognition for its improved reliability. Despite being a formidable player, Delta is still working to establish itself against long-standing manufacturers in the solar industry.
The H5A-222 string inverter from Delta stands out as a notable product in the series. Boasting a built-in certified DC isolator and an inbuilt energy meter, it catches attention with an incredibly low PV startup voltage of 35V. This feature translates to a wide operating voltage window, allowing the inverter to kick in early in the morning, even before many other inverters start operating. Impressively, the H5A-222 can operate with just one panel per Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT), though, in practice, two panels would be ideal considering temperature variations. This is a notable advantage, as many competitors typically require three or more panels to initiate power generation. Delta backs their products with a standard 5-year warranty and maintains an Australian office in Melbourne.
For monitoring, Delta utilizes the mydeltasolar app, a cloud-based platform. While initial reports mentioned some unreliability, Delta has made significant improvements to enhance both user experience and the commissioning process for installers setting up inverters. These improvements reflect Delta’s commitment to providing a more seamless and user-friendly monitoring solution.
As Delta continues to refine its offerings and build its presence in the solar inverter market, it remains a promising choice for those seeking reliable entry-level inverters backed by a reputable global electronics company.