Inverter

The device that converts DC power from solar panels (or a battery) into 230V AC power compatible with the grid and your home.

An inverter is the brain of a solar PV system. It converts the variable DC power from the panels (typically 200-600V DC) into 230V/50Hz AC, manages the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) to extract the most power across changing irradiance, and provides grid protection (G99/G98) so it disconnects safely during a power cut.

String inverters (one inverter per array) dominate the UK market and are what we install on most Cornwall jobs: SolarEdge, Fox ESS, GivEnergy and Solax are the most common 2026 choices. Hybrid inverters add a battery port, microinverters put one tiny inverter behind every panel, and optimisers sit between panel and string inverter to do MPPT per panel.

Inverter lifespan is typically 10-15 years versus 25-30 for the panels, so budget for one replacement during the life of your system. CCS provides a 12-year inverter warranty as standard on new installs. See our solar installation page.