Island Photovoltaic Power Inverter

What is a solar inverter?

Solar inverters are essential components of PV systems. They convert the direct current (DC) generated by PV modules into alternating current (AC). SMA PV inverters are compatible with the PV modules of leading manufacturers. We also supply the right inverter for every area of application, be it a home, business or industry.

How much AC power should a sunny island inverter have?

In off-grid systems, the nominal AC power of the PV system must not be more than double the nominal AC power of the Sunny Island inverters. The battery capacity per installed kWp of the PV array must be at least 100 Ah. Example: In a PV array with 5 kWp, the battery capacity must be at least 500 Ah.

What is a sunny island inverter?

The new SMA Sunny Island 4548-US and 6048-US inverters are based on the proven off-grid technology in the Sunny Island 5048-US but now feature 20 percent more power output. A maximum efficiency of 96 percent ensures peak production, which results in reduced diesel usage and makes a smaller dimensioning of the PV array possible.

How does an islanding solar inverter work?

Your islanding solar inverter works independently from the power grid. If there's a storm or other event that knocks out the main power grid, your solar power system will continue running and providing power to your home. We mention this because many people mistake going solar with going off-grid, but that's typically not the case.

Can sunny island inverters be off-grid?

In off-grid operation, the Sunny Island inverters must be able to limit their output power, if PV inverters are connected on the AC side. This situation can occur when, for example, the battery of the Sunny Island is fully charged and the PV power available from the PV system exceeds the power requirement of the connected loads.

Can I use PV inverters in off-grid systems?

You can use the following PV inverters in off-grid systems. You can order all the listed PV inverters with preset off-grid parameters from SMA Solar Technology AG. The PV inverters must be equipped with at least the firmware version given in the table, or a higher version.