Solar inverters and photovoltaic accessories in Madrid: installation and configuration
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The inverter is the central electronic component of any photovoltaic system: it converts the direct current (DC) produced by the panels into alternating current (AC, 230 V / 50 Hz) for use in the domestic installation or for feeding into the distribution grid. The correct selection of the inverter determines the overall performance of the system, as conversion losses (typical efficiency of 97-99% in current models) and the ability to manage partial shading have a direct impact on annual production.
The three main types are: the string inverter, the most common, connects all the panels in series or in several strings and converts the energy centrally; it is the most economical and reliable option, but a shadow on a single panel reduces the production of the entire string. The microinverters (e.g., Enphase IQ8) are installed on each panel individually, so partial shading or different orientations of various panels do not affect the rest; they are ideal for roofs with obstacles or multiple orientations, although their initial cost is higher. The hybrid inverter Integrates the grid inverter and battery charger into a single unit, simultaneously managing the panels, batteries, and the grid; it is the foundation of domestic energy storage systems (LFP lithium batteries like BYD Battery-Box or Pylontech).
The main accessories we install along with the inverter:
- DC optimisers (SolarEdge P370, Tigo TS4): they are installed on each panel to maximize individual output without the need for a microinverter; they are the intermediate solution between a pure string inverter and microinverters.
- DC and AC overvoltage protection (type 2 surge protectors in DC, residual current circuit breaker and MCB on the AC side): mandatory according to the REBT and the distributor company's regulations.
- WiFi production monitor: all current inverters (Fronius, SMA, Huawei, Growatt, Enphase) include WiFi or Ethernet communication to monitor real-time production from a mobile device and export historical data.
- Mounting structure: aluminium system with rails and clamps for pitched tile or fibre cement roof, coplanar structure for metal roof, or ballast system (weighted, without perforations) for flat walkable roof.
- Double insulated DC wiring (section 4-6 mm², class II, UV-resistant) and MC4 certified connectors to ensure electrical safety of the DC circuit.
- DC and AC isolator switches for safe maintenance of the system without the need to intervene in the main panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size inverter do I need for 6 panels of 400 Wp?
6 panels of 400 Wp add up to 2,400 Wp (2.4 kWp) of peak DC power. The usual practice is to select an inverter with a nominal AC power between 80% and 110% of the generator's DC power (DC/AC ratio). For 2.4 kWp, a single-phase inverter of 2.0-2.5 kW is appropriate. Common models: Fronius Primo 2.0-1, SMA Sunny Boy 2.5, Huawei SUN2000-2KTL. If you plan to expand to 8-10 panels in the future, opt directly for a 3.0-3.6 kW inverter to avoid having to change it.
Can I add batteries to my existing inverter?
It depends on the model. If your current inverter is a standard grid inverter (string inverter without battery management), it cannot be directly connected to batteries: you would need to replace it with a hybrid inverter or add a standalone battery inverter (such as the SMA Sunny Island or the Victron MultiPlus). If the inverter is already hybrid (e.g., Huawei SUN2000-5KTL-M1, GoodWe ES, Solis S5-EH1P), it supports the connection of compatible lithium batteries without the need to change the equipment. We will review your existing installation and provide you with the most economical solution.
What is the difference between a hybrid inverter and a normal inverter?
A standard grid inverter converts the DC energy from the panels to AC and feeds it into the installation or the grid; when there is no sun, the supply comes entirely from the grid. A hybrid inverter also incorporates a battery charger-discharger: when solar production exceeds consumption, it charges the batteries instead of feeding the surplus into the grid; when there is no sun or production is insufficient, it discharges the batteries before drawing from the grid. Some hybrid models also include a backup (island) function: they maintain supply in critical circuits during grid outages, as long as the batteries are charged.