String Inverter

A string inverter, also called a central inverter, converts DC electricity from multiple solar panels wired together in a “string” into AC electricity at one central location, usually mounted on a wall near your electrical panel.

String inverters are the most established and cost-effective inverter technology for residential solar. In a string configuration, panels are connected in series — like lights on a string — so the DC output of all panels flows to a single inverter. This design is simple and reliable, with fewer components than microinverter setups. However, string inverters have a drawback: if one panel in the string is shaded or underperforming, it can reduce the output of the entire string. For this reason, string inverters work best on roofs with consistent sun exposure and minimal shading. Many homeowners pair string inverters with power optimizers to get panel-level performance while keeping costs lower than a full microinverter system.