Updated on 17 February 2026
A solar inverter changes direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC). The inverter is an important component of the system because solar panels are designed to convert sunlight into DC power. Still, your home requires AC to power all your lighting and appliances. The solar inverter converts the DC electricity produced by the solar panels into 240V AC electricity, which can then be used by the property/household, exported to the grid, or stored in a solar battery storage system.
On this page
Are you looking to save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint? Solar energy is the perfect solution! Energy Matters can help you get up to 3 FREE solar quotes from pre-qualified and vetted solar firms in your area.
Energy Matters has been a leader in the renewable energy industry since 2005 and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence. With Energy Matters, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible deal on solar energy. We only work with reputable solar firms with a proven track record of delivering high-quality solar systems.
- The sun shines on the solar power panel, generating Direct Current (DC) electricity.
- The DC electricity is fed into a solar inverter that converts it to 240V 50Hz AC electricity.
- The 240V AC electricity is used to power appliances in your home.
- Surplus electricity is fed back into the main grid.
Home battery and hybrid systems are also becoming more popular, but batteries are still developing, and most solar installations still need a dedicated solar inverter.
The major benefit of a more extensive solar PV system is that it will be simple to add a solar battery, utilise your solar inverter’s capability to its fullest extent, and generate more power during the day so that you won’t be as dependent on grid electricity. You can start making the most of your solar PV system by installing a solar battery.
Check our page for our recommended solar battery products.
Many solar inverters also include a Wi-Fi monitor that provides real-time data on generated solar power. It’s even better when you have a powerful solar panel that can measure the energy used to produce electricity.
What is an inverter used for?
Every solar power system must have solar inverters. They carry out two essential tasks:
Conversion from DC to AC
All solar panels generate Direct Current (DC), which must be converted into alternating current (AC), the type of electricity your home can use by a solar inverter.
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)
The amount of sunlight and the temperature of solar panels both affect how well they work throughout the day. It implies that the voltage and current a solar panel may produce can also vary. The solar inverter dynamically selects the mix of the two to maximise electricity output, using a process known as Maximum Power Point (MPP) tracking.
Criteria used to select the best solar inverters
Choosing a solar inverter can be accomplished by examining the following criteria.
- Efficiency, quality & reliability
- Service & support
- Monitoring
- Warranty
- Features
- Cost
- Size option
Solar Inverter Technologies
String Inverters
The most common type of solar inverter used in residential solar panel systems is the string inverter because each installation typically calls for one. Several solar panel strings connect to a single inverter. Then, for domestic usage, it transforms DC into AC.
Micro inverters
Each solar panel needs a small inverter called a microinverter to maximise its power at the module level. Even with partial shading, each solar panel still generates more electricity. Each panel’s voltage output is optimised using a microinverter to maximise output. Because each micro-inverter is connected to the others, the system continues to convert DC to AC even if one micro-inverter fails.
Central inverters
Although they are larger and can sustain more than one string instead of just one, they are closely similar to string inverters.
Unlike string inverters, the strings are connected in series, with the DC power flowing to the central inverter box, where it is converted to AC. These primarily serve business rather than domestic purposes. These are typical of commercial facilities and utility-scale solar farms.
Battery based inverter
A battery bank is necessary for battery inverters to operate. It converts the battery bank’s DC power into AC power. They can deliver power even during a power outage, like hybrid inverters. Battery inverters can interfere with phone, radio, and television reception because of their buzzing noise. Installing sine waves will help you reduce interference.
Power optimiser
Power optimisers can be installed in systems with strings of panels and a string inverter, even though they are not inverters. Like microinverters, they ensure that the output of the remaining solar panels in the string won’t be affected if one panel is shaded, dirty, or fails in some other way.
Check our page to learn more about solar inverters and understand their role and importance.
Solar PV systems and required inverters
Grid-tied inverters are intended for grid-tied solar systems, the most common system type. When necessary, they import utility electricity from the grid and maintain a two-way flow with it, exporting solar energy to the grid.
Hybrid inverters are used with hybrid solar systems, also known as multi-mode inverters, battery-ready inverters, or solar-plus-storage systems. They can charge and draw electricity from a battery setup and function like a grid-tied inverter.
Off-grid inverters are utilised in off-grid solar systems, also known as entirely independent solar power systems, to provide backup power during grid outages.
An off-grid inverter cannot be linked to the grid and must have a battery backup to operate.
5 best solar inverters in Australia
|
Brand & Model |
Type |
Best For |
Key Feature |
|
Fronius GEN24 Plus |
Hybrid |
General Residential |
Active Cooling & Serviceability |
|
Enphase IQ9 |
Microinverter |
Shaded Roofs |
Individual Panel Optimisation |
|
SolarEdge Hub |
Optimised String |
Smart Homes |
Integrated EV & Storage |
|
Sungrow SH-RS |
Hybrid |
Value for Money |
10ms Blackout Switchover |
|
GoodWe ESA Series |
All-in-One |
Space Saving |
Modular Battery Integration |
What are the best solar inverters in Australia?
| Model | Warranty | Key Features | Estimated Price Range AU$ | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Fronius | Primo GEN24 Plus | ~10 yr standard (5+5 yrs parts via SolarWeb registration) | Hybrid-ready, integrated backup power modes, dual MPPTs, smart energy management (SnapINverter & app), strong cooling design for heat resilience. | ~$1,700–$3,800 (install + inverter) |
| 2. Enphase | IQ9 Microinverters | Up to 25 yrs (industry-leading microinverter warranty) | Panel-level conversion maximises yield in shaded/complex roofs, supports modular expansion, provides a safe, DC-free design, and enables detailed panel-by-panel monitoring. | ~$200–$300 per unit (~$3,000–$5,000 system including gateway & install) |
| 3. SolarEdge | SE5000H HD Wave | 12-year warranty (25 years for optimisers) | A single-phase inverter that works with power optimisers to maximise the output of each solar panel. It has a very high efficiency of 99.2%; has a compact and lightweight design and advanced safety features. | ~$1,800–$2,800 installed |
| 4. Sungrow | SH-RS Series | ~10 yrs standard | Hybrid inverter for solar + battery, dual MPPT, backup capability (<10 ms), iSolarCloud real-time monitoring, efficient energy management. | ~ $1,900–$2,500 (for 5–6 kW hybrid) |
| 5. GoodWe | ESA-Athena Series | ~10 yrs standard (10 yr safety warranty typical) | All-in-one inverter + battery system, stackable storage up to ~9.6 kWh, aerosol fire suppression safety, off-grid output, smart monitoring, compact design. | ~$2,000–$4,000+ depending on stack & install |
| NOTES: Warranty: Inverters and microinverters each offer manufacturer warranties; some can be extended via registration or installer plans. Pricing: Indicative Australian retail pricing includes equipment and supply; installation may add up to 30–50% extra. Actual prices vary by installer and system specifics. |
||||
Fronius solar inverters in the Australian market
Günter Fronius established Fronius in Austria in 1945. In 1992, the company became a top inverter maker thanks to a novel snap-in installation method. The Fronius inverter has an active cooling system, numerous MPPTs for increased efficiency, and an integrated solar DC isolator that does not require an additional isolator box. The Fronius inverter offers Wi-Fi-enabled system monitoring.
Monitoring solar energy use is possible thanks to the smart meter.
Enphase solar inverters
The best-known brand for solar microinverters is Enphase. The business began operations in the United States in 2006, was the first to widely commercialise the microinverter, and continues to be the industry leader in output. Instead of a full array of solar panels, microinverters convert, regulate, and monitor solar energy on a per-panel basis.
SolarEdge inverter
SolarEdge is the third-largest inverter producer in the world. The intelligent inverter system from Solar Edge uses DC optimisers to monitor each panel and increase power output.
Sungrow inverters
Sungrow inverters are among the most affordable solar inverters currently available. Customers can select sizes ranging from 2 kW to 8 kW, affecting the solar inverter’s overall cost. Although Sungrow has alternative warranties that can extend the coverage for an additional fee, the Sungrow SG Premium comes with a 5-year warranty as standard.
GoodWe inverter
GoodWe Power Supply Technology Co. is another name for GoodWe. Ltd. in Australia. GoodWE is a top producer of string and hybrid inverters and a common inverter brand. GoodWE produces single- and three-phase inverters ranging from 0.7 kW to 250 kW.
Seeking the perfect match
With the information above, you’re well-equipped to navigate the world of solar inverters. But remember, your journey doesn’t stop here. Consulting a qualified solar installer is crucial for getting the best solar inverter in Australia for your specific needs and setup. They can assess your property, analyse your energy usage, and recommend the ideal inverter-panel combination to maximise your solar savings and contribute to a brighter, cleaner future for yourself and the planet.
Remember, the “best” solar inverter is subjective and depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consider factors like budget, roof layout, shading concerns, and future battery storage plans before making your choice.
Understanding your solar inverter brands
Learn all there is to know about your inverter once it has been installed. Learn the meanings of the indicator lights and displays often present on them.
It’s a good idea to regularly check in on your solar system, whether you use advanced monitoring software or just a visual inspection of the inverter’s display panel. Early detection of issues will enable you to address them and adjust your electricity use to maximise your solar power. You don’t want to learn the hard way from an electricity bill that your system hasn’t been working properly, and you’ve been using grid power instead of solar power!
Contact us for professional guidance on solar inverters and a price estimate for a home or business’ high-quality solar panel installation.
Energy Matters has been a leader in the renewable energy industry since 2005. We can connect you with our trusted local solar installers, who will provide up to 3 FREE solar quotes for your home and business solar energy system.
