Defined term
String inverter
A string inverter converts direct-current electricity from one or more series-connected groups of photovoltaic modules into alternating-current electricity.
Also known as central string inverter
technology · Concept code GS-CONCEPT-025 · Last verified August 20, 2026
Definition and boundaries
Definition
A string inverter converts direct-current electricity from one or more series-connected groups of photovoltaic modules into alternating-current electricity.
Definition claim verification: Verified August 20, 2026
In plain language
When a proposal mentions String inverter, identify the exact equipment, configuration, and included work instead of assuming the label describes the whole system.
What it is not
It is not a microinverter attached to and converting power for one module at a time.
Decision context
Why it matters
String layout, voltage range, shading behavior, service location, capacity ratio, monitoring, and replacement access belong in the system design comparison.
Decision-context claim verification: Verified August 20, 2026
Information boundary
This page provides general educational context, not a site design, production guarantee, utility determination, contract interpretation, legal opinion, tax conclusion, or individualized financial advice. Verify property, equipment, utility, jurisdiction, program, and agreement details before acting.
Concept relationships
Broader concepts
- Solar inverterPublished conceptString inverter is a more specific concept under Solar inverter
Component of
- Residential photovoltaic systemPublished conceptString inverter can be a component of Residential photovoltaic system
Affects
- Annual solar productionPublished conceptString inverter can affect how Annual solar production is evaluated
Primary sources
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory: PVWatts Version 5 Manual
Revision NREL/TP-6A20-62641 · Source event as of September 1, 2014 · Ontology accessed August 20, 2026 · Ontology verified August 20, 2026
- U.S. Department of Energy: Solar Integration: Inverters and Grid Services Basics
Revision Modified 2025-03-31 · Source event as of March 31, 2025 · Ontology accessed August 20, 2026 · Ontology verified August 20, 2026
What to do next
- Open the related GeoStellar guideNext step
- Return to the Solar Energy WikiNext step
- Estimate a residential solar systemNext step