String inverter
A single central inverter that converts the combined DC output of a series-wired panel string to AC — the lowest-cost inverter option for unshaded roofs.
A string inverter wires multiple panels together in a series 'string' and converts their pooled DC output to AC at one box, usually mounted near the main panel. It's the cheapest and simplest inverter setup.
The downside is that the whole string performs at the level of its weakest panel, so shade or debris on one module reduces all of them — unless DC optimizers are added. On simple, unshaded roofs a string inverter is hard to beat on cost; complex roofs often favor microinverters.
Put it to work
See also