Micro-inverters in small scale PV systems: A review and future directions

This paper presents a review of micro inverters and the electrical limitations associated with inverter-per-panel DC-AC power conversion in small photovoltaic (PV) systems. Typical PV system topologies are compared to highlight key differences between traditional central inverter systems and current micro inverter module arrays. Grid requirements and the micro inverter market are briefly summarised, a selection of micro inverter circuit topologies are explored and power decoupling strategies discussed. Finally, the swarm/parallel operation of micro inverters in residential micro grids is investigated. A conclusion is given summarising the direction of micro inverter development required for the future.