What Is a Hybrid Solar Inverter?

Renewable energy is making significant strides in Aotearoa. If you look at the numbers, you'll see that solar power is emerging as a particularly promising green energy option.

The Solar Scene in New Zealand

Currently, renewable sources contribute about 87% to New Zealand's total energy generation, with solar power making up roughly 1% of this figure as of 2022. This figure might seem insignificant, but solar is still on a positive growth trajectory. As a matter of fact, grid-connected solar increased from 2.1 MW to 23.7 MW after the operationalisation of the Kaitaia solar farm in the third quarter of 2023. [1] [2] [3]

With solar making such a difference in the energy scene, now would be a great time to explore how you can make the most of the power at hand. Hybrid solar inverters offer an attractive choice here.

What Is a Hybrid Solar Inverter?

In simple terms, this is a device that combines the functions of a solar inverter and a battery inverter. This means it can convert the DC electricity generated by your solar panels into AC electricity for your home while also managing battery storage.

Think of a sunny day in Auckland, and your rooftop solar panels are soaking up plenty of sunlight. Your hybrid solar inverter is hard at work converting the direct current (DC) electricity these panels generate into alternating current (AC) electricity that powers everything in your home.

Now, let's say the sun starts to set just as you're starting to cook dinner. Instead of buying expensive electricity from the grid, your hybrid solar inverter switches to the energy it stored in the battery during the day. This way, you continue cooking and enjoying your evening without a hitch using clean energy you stored earlier.

This inverter differs from the traditional one in a sense that the latter only converts solar energy for immediate use. It doesn't have the capability to store energy. This means any excess solar power is sent back to the grid, often at a lower rate than what you pay for electricity.

Benefits of a Hybrid Solar Inverter

Now, you might be wondering: why go hybrid? Well, there are several benefits.

• Hybrid solar inverters let you store surplus solar energy in batteries. This means you can use your own solar power even without sunshine, reducing your reliance on the grid.
• Using stored energy during peak times can significantly lower your electricity bills. You avoid paying higher rates during these periods by utilising your stored solar energy.
• In the event of a power outage, a hybrid solar inverter can keep your essential appliances running. This can ensure your home remains functional during unexpected blackouts.
• Hybrid solar inverters manage energy flow more efficiently among solar panels, batteries, and the grid. This optimises your system's performance, getting the most out of your solar investment.
• By maximising the use of solar power, these inverters won't need you to rely that much on fossil-fuelled grid power. This contributes to lower carbon emissions and a cleaner environment.
• You can decide when to use stored energy or sell it back to the grid. This flexibility allows you to manage your energy as you see fit, adapting to changes in usage or production.
• Although the initial setup cost might be higher, the long-term savings on energy bills and potential earnings from selling excess power can be substantial. Over time, a hybrid solar inverter can pay for itself and continue to provide economic benefits.

These are some of the perks you can reap when you go for a hybrid solar inverter.

Applications of Hybrid Solar Inverters

Hybrid solar inverters are jacks of many trades. Here’s how you can put them into use:

• They're able to store solar energy during peak hours, helping cut down on electricity bills by. Plus, they provide a sense of energy independence, as you're not wholly reliant on the grid.
• Businesses can benefit greatly from hybrid solar inverters by reducing operational costs associated with energy use. They also contribute to a company’s green credentials, which is great for both the environment and brand image.
• In places where grid power is often unreliable, hybrid solar inverters offer a consistent power supply. They store excess power during the day, which you can use at night or during outages.
• Power outages are no biggie for a hybrid solar inverter as it can automatically switch to battery power, keeping critical systems like heating, refrigeration, and lights operational. This makes them a perfect ally if you're in areas prone to power cuts or natural disasters.

These are just a few places where hybrid solar inverters can make a huge difference.

Closing Thoughts

Hybrid solar inverters are a smart investment for anyone looking to get serious about solar energy. To get started on that energy-efficient journey, visit us at World Solar and grab the best deals on solar panels for sale in NZ. This is one huge step towards a more sustainable future for your home or business.

Sources

1. "Energy Profile - New Zealand", Source: https://www.irena.org/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Statistics/Statistical_Profiles/Oceania/New-Zealand_Oceania_RE_SP.pdf?rev=91b4f88894064f43a99b9c784fb5e37c

2. "Solar energy in New Zealand", Source: https://www.eeca.govt.nz/insights/energys-role-in-climate-change/renewable-energy/solar/

3. "Increased renewable generation capacity for December quarter", Source: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/building-and-energy/energy-and-natural-resources/energy-statistics-and-modelling/energy-publications-and-technical-papers/new-zealand-energy-quarterly/previous-energy-quarterly-editions/new-zealand-energy-quarterly-december-2023/december-2023-summary