What distinguishes a battery inverter from a PV inverter?
Both battery and PV (photovoltaic) inverters are types of inverters used in renewable energy systems, however they have distinct functions and characteristics:
Solar or Photovoltaic Inverter:
1.Purpose: The purpose of a photovoltaic (PV) inverter is to transform solar-generated direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be supplied into the electrical grid and used to power houses.
2.Input: Solar-generated DC electricity is fed into PV inverters. They convert the output voltage of the solar panel to an AC voltage that is compatible with the grid.
3.Grid-Connected Systems: Grid-tied solar power systems, where surplus electricity can be fed back into the system, are commonly equipped with PV inverters.
4.Operation: To guarantee that solar power is effectively incorporated into the facility's or household's electrical supply, PV inverters work in tandem with the grid.
5.Lack of Energy Storage: Energy storage is not a feature of PV inverters. They are intended to function in systems in which extra electricity is not stored for later use but rather fed straight into the grid.
Battery Inverter (Inverter/Charger for Energy Storage):
1.Purpose: An energy storage system's batteries are charged and discharged under the control of a battery inverter, often known as an inverter/charger. Its main purpose is to transform DC electricity from batteries into AC electricity for use in buildings or residences. It can also change AC power into DC so that batteries can be charged.
2.Input: Connected to batteries, such as lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries, battery inverters function with energy storage systems.
3.Off-Grid and Hybrid Systems: When there is no connection to the utility grid, off-grid systems frequently use battery inverters. In hybrid systems that integrate solar panels, batteries, and the grid, they are also utilized.
4.Energy Storage: When grid or solar power is absent or when demand for electricity is strong, battery inverters can store extra energy in batteries for later use.
5.Backup Power: while a system has a battery inverter, the batteries can maintain a steady flow of electricity even while the grid is down.
In conclusion, the key distinction between battery and PV inverters is found in the former's major uses and functions. PV inverters are designed to convert solar-generated DC electricity into grid-compatible AC power, and they are specifically made for grid-tied solar systems. All off-grid and hybrid battery storage systems require battery inverters since they are made to handle energy storage systems, including the conversion of energy between DC batteries and AC loads.