When you’re ‘going solar’, one of the biggest technical choices you’ll make is between a string inverter and microinverters. That decision affects your system’s efficiency, cost, and long-term performance. The better option is entirely unique for each customer, it depends on your roof’s orientation, design, shading, etc.
Monitoring — how you track your system’s production — comes bundled with whichever inverter type you choose. While some customers love ultra-detailed data from panel-level monitoring, for most homeowners, the simpler string-level monitoring is more than enough to ensure their system is performing well.
At SES, we’ve been maintaining solar systems longer than anyone in the region. Our service department supports all systems, whether we installed them or not, offering cleanings, inspections, diagnostics, repairs, replacements, and even remote monitoring. No matter which inverter you choose, we’re here to keep your solar system running at its best.
Option 1: String Inverter (Example: Tesla Solar Inverter)
String inverters manage power from a “string” of connected solar panels. Most string inverters are designed to support several strings of panels. They provide system-level monitoring, a simple, cost-effective way to see how your solar investment is performing overall. The Tesla Solar Inverter, a common example of a high-quality string inverter, offers system-level monitoring.
Advantages:
- More budget-friendly than microinverters.
- Reliable, proven technology.
- Easy to see your system’s total production.
- Fewer system components.
Considerations:
- No individual panel performance data.
- One underperforming panel can slightly reduce the output of its string.
- Tesla string inverters do not support automatic SREC reporting. Monthly readings must be submitted manually.
Best Fit: A great choice for homeowners who want reliable, cost-effective solar performance tracking, have simple roof layouts with minimal shading, and prefer an easy way to monitor their system’s overall production without diving into panel-by-panel details.
Option 2: Microinverters / Panel-Level Monitoring (Example: Enphase)
With microinverters, each panel operates independently and reports its own data. You can see exactly what each panel produces at any moment.
Advantages:
- Pinpoint an underperforming panel instantly.
- One panel’s issue won’t affect others.
- Detailed, panel-by-panel performance tracking for those who love having deeper insights into their system.
Considerations:
- Higher upfront cost.
- More components to maintain.
Best Fit: Homeowners who want the deepest insights into their solar system’s performance, have roof layouts with shading or complexity, and value being able to quickly pinpoint and fix issues at the individual panel level. This option is also well suited for those willing to invest more upfront for enhanced monitoring and long-term optimization.
Choosing the Right Monitoring Option for You
Consider your specific needs and circumstances when deciding between string-level and panel-level monitoring. If you prioritize a cost-effective solution and have a relatively unshaded roof, string inverter monitoring will likely provide the essential information you need to ensure your system is operating correctly.
However, if you desire detailed insights into individual panel performance, have a complex roof layout with potential shading issues, or want the ability to pinpoint and address underperforming panels quickly, then panel-level monitoring is a valuable investment.
Your solar and storage consultant can help you assess your specific situation and recommend the monitoring solution that best aligns with your needs and budget.
