Hybrid inverters are a simple and inexpensive way to add storage to the battery, but they have some limitations compared to dedicated off-grid battery inverters, the main of which is the limited power output of overvoltage or peak in the event of a power outage. Basic hybrid solar battery inverters work like a power inverter to the grid. However, it also allows storage capacity in a battery system for self-use. The main disadvantage of a basic hybrid inverter is that it doesn't have a grid isolation device, meaning it can't supply power to your home in the event of a power outage.
Therefore, a basic hybrid inverter is an excellent option only if the grid supply is stable. One of the biggest advantages of a hybrid inverter is that it combines the functionality of two separate equipment into one. This can mean an easier installation process for your solar installer. Depending on the prices of the individual components and the cost of labor, you can save money by installing a hybrid inverter from the start, instead of paying separately for a solar inverter and a specific inverter for batteries.
However, if you don't plan to add battery storage to your system, compare hybrid solutions with traditional grid-connected solar inverters, as they may be less expensive from the start. A solar panel configuration with a conventional inverter requires a separate inverter to transform AC to DC, back and forth. Such systems would normally have a standard solar inverter along with an interactive or multimode battery inverter. A hybrid inverter can help reduce your dependence on the grid, reduce your carbon footprint, enjoy advanced monitoring tools and improve power generation.
A grid-connected hybrid inverter allows for a seamless fusion between your home's solar energy system and the electricity grid. Better yet, a hybrid inverter helps you store energy for future consumption more efficiently, including backup power for use during power outages or peak hours. Adding a hybrid inverter and batteries to your system will cost more upfront than installing a solution that is only connected to the grid. The hybrid inverter does all of this, and it can also use alternating current energy from the grid to charge the solar battery storage if the energy from the solar panels is inadequate or is used to power your home.
If your area experiences frequent power outages and you want to have the option of adding a backup battery in the future, it may be worth having a hybrid inverter. However, if your power grid is reliable and you have access to a net metering, a normal grid-connected system could be sufficient and is likely to be less expensive than a hybrid inverter with battery storage. A battery inverter is responsible for the process of inverting the direct current electricity that is stored in the storage of the solar battery into alternating current electricity that your home can use. So what's the best solution for you? If you're thinking about adding a battery to your solar panel system now or in the future, you may want to consider installing a hybrid inverter.
In general, most hybrid systems comprise separate inverters that work together to constitute a system coupled to alternating current. Since you already have a solar inverter connected to the grid, opting to install a hybrid inverter requires a complete and costly overhaul of your entire solar panel system. A hybrid solar inverter is a low-maintenance system, especially compared to traditional energy sources. If you install a hybrid inverter now with the idea of adding a solar-powered battery later on, your future options may be limited by compatibility issues.
