Solar panels are what usually comes to mind when one thinks of installing a solar system. While solar panels produce energy, there is one more element that defines the efficiency of energy usage: The solar inverter.

In case you are thinking about installing a solar system with battery back-up, you might have heard about the term “hybrid inverter.” Moreover, while comparing available solutions, you'll realise that there are two main types—single phase and three phase hybrid inverters.

Even though the difference might look technical, choosing the appropriate solution will definitely affect the efficiency and performance of your system.

However, the good news is that choosing the proper solar inverter does not need to be hard. First of all, you need to understand your electrical connection, energy consumption and goals.

What Is a Hybrid Solar Inverter?

A hybrid inverter is much more than a regular solar inverter.

It takes the DC power generated by the solar panel array and changes it to usable AC power. Simultaneously, it controls the battery charging process and the discharge of the batteries in order to store the extra energy from the sun for future use.

As opposed to traditional solar inverters, which are capable of transferring only the extra energy to the power grid, hybrid inverters provide more flexibility by integrating all three sources—solar power generation, battery power storage, and power grid.

Understanding Single Phase Hybrid Inverters

Single phase inverters are meant for use in properties that have a single phase connection, as this kind of electrical connection is very common in India.

Single phase inverters distribute electricity using only one alternating current wave, thus making them appropriate for use in properties with low electrical consumption requirements.

Advantages of Single Phase Hybrid Inverters

The reason why the single phase hybrid inverter is widely used is due to its various advantages:

• It is suitable for almost all domestic residences.
• Installation is less costly than a three phase inverter.
• The inverter is easy to maintain.
• It is suitable for connection to home electrical circuits.
• It is suitable for solar roof top installations of small to medium sizes.

The single phase hybrid inverter is sufficient for homeowners who have average electrical usage.

When Is a Single Phase Inverter the Right Choice?

A single phase hybrid inverter is considered appropriate if:

• There is only single-phase electricity supplied to your house.
• You have moderate electricity usage.
• You use regular home appliances.
• You have a small-sized solar power plant on your rooftop.
• You need battery backup for critical loads at home.

This setup works well for most households in India.

Understanding Three Phase Hybrid Inverters

The three phase hybrid inverters are made for properties that have a three phase electrical supply connection.

Unlike other inverters which distribute power in only one phase, these distribute electrical loads into three phases thereby increasing efficiency of power distribution.

Therefore, they are appropriate for properties which need more power requirements.

Advantages of Three Phase Hybrid Inverters

The three phase hybrid inverters offer various benefits such as:

• Better load balancing
• Increased power capacity
• Applicable to bigger solar systems
• Applicable to heavier electrical equipment
• Increased efficiency for business use
• Easy to expand for future energy needs

These types of inverters can be used in industries, commercial buildings, office spaces, hotels, educational institutions, hospitals, and large residences.

When Should You Choose a Three Phase Hybrid Inverter?

Three phase hybrid inverters can be considered the more appropriate option for the following reasons:

• If you have an existing three phase electric power setup on your property.
• You are using heavy machinery/equipment.
• You consume a lot of electricity.
• Your intention is to use a bigger solar rooftop setup.
• You foresee increasing energy needs.

In other words, apart from the present electricity usage, it’s also worth contemplating upon the future growth plans while making the selection of the inverter.

Why Your Electrical Connection Matters

Misconception number one is that you have the freedom to decide which inverter you want to use, whether a single phase or a three-phase inverter.

This is not the case because your choice will actually depend on your existing type of electricity connection.

A single phase inverter will suit your single phase power, while a three-phase inverter will work well for a three phase connection.

Making a wrong choice will lead to compatibility problems as well as costs.

Therefore, it is important to first establish your electrical connection before making a choice of the inverter.

Battery Backup Considerations

Another significant advantage of hybrid inverters is the fact that they can utilise battery storage.

Nonetheless, the demand for backup power differs from one place to another whether at home or business premises.

In the case of a residential building, people may not require anything beyond the basic needs such as lighting, ventilation fans, WiFi router, refrigerator, or even the TV to keep running during power outages.

For business, however, they may need to run computers, manufacturing machinery, security alarms, or refrigerators among others.

Knowing what you would like to power when there is no electricity determines the size of the inverter.

Think Beyond Today's Energy Needs

Solar energy is a long-term investment.

People invest in an inverter according to their present electricity consumption without thinking about future alterations.

You may need to buy an electric car, install new air conditioners, extend your office, or add machines to your factory in the future.

Using an inverter that enables future upgradation can prevent any need for replacements in the future.

Thinking about the energy requirement of the coming days is often cheaper than replacement after some years.

Why Professional System Design Matters

In selecting a good inverter, it is not enough to choose between single phase and three phase inverters alone.

Some other considerations have to be made, such as:

• Daily energy requirement
• Solar system size
• Storage capacity of the battery
• Rooftop area available
• Electrical system already existing
• Future system expansion
• Utilities' rules and regulations

A well-planned solar energy system takes into account all these considerations instead of concentrating on one aspect alone.

That is the reason why proper site evaluation is critical for a good solar energy installation.

How Rayax Energy Helps You Choose the Right Inverter

In Rayax Energy, every solar system project starts off by first determining the true energy requirements of the customer rather than giving a blanket solution.

It does not matter whether it is a residential roof top project, an office or an industrial plant, the team first assesses the electricity consumption needs, electrical connections, need for battery systems and other energy requirements for the future to choose the right hybrid inverter.

Conclusion

Both single phase and three phase hybrid inverters are important components of contemporary solar systems.

The best choice for any average home that does not have too high energy requirements is a single phase hybrid inverter. If your home or commercial or industrial facility consumes a lot of energy, then a three phase hybrid inverter is much better suited to your needs.

Instead of thinking about which inverter is better, it is necessary to think about which inverter is needed for your facility.

It depends on your type of electrical supply, energy consumption, need for a backup system and your future plans.

If you choose the right hybrid inverter along with proper solar panels, batteries and installation, your inverter will become the core of your solar energy system.