Solar Inverters

Solar inverters convert DC from your array (or battery bank) into AC for household loads and, when allowed, for grid export. Shoppers land here to choose between hybrid, microinverter, grid-tie, and off-grid platforms — then pair the inverter with solar panels, batteries, and wiring.

In stock now: the Solis 16kW Hybrid Inverter (split-phase, 48V battery architecture with built-in MPPT) and Enphase IQ8-series microinverters (IQ8HC, IQ8+, IQ8M, IQ8AC, and IQ8P-3P). Additional string, off-grid, and hybrid models are being refreshed — call 877-878-4060 for a specific brand or size.

Hybrid vs microinverter vs grid-tie vs off-grid

  • Hybrid inverters — grid interconnection plus battery charging and backup in one platform. Best when you want storage, time-of-use shifting, or whole-home / critical-load backup (example: Solis 16kW).
  • Microinverters — panel-level AC conversion (Enphase IQ8). Strong when roofs have shade or multiple orientations; storage usually needs a separate Enphase Ensemble / System Controller path.
  • Grid-tie inverters — export solar to the utility without integrated battery backup. String inverters and some hybrid units appear here when used primarily for grid-tied PV.
  • Off-grid inverters — battery-based AC for cabins and remote sites with little or no sell-back. Standalone charge controllers often pair with these designs.

Mobile / marine inverters and classic inverter-chargers are part of the broader inverter family; call us if you need RV, boat, or pure off-grid inverter/charger sizing while those leaves restock.

What to buy with the inverter

  • Solar panels — module wattage, Voc, and string count must fit the inverter’s MPPT or microinverter input window.
  • Solar batteries — 48V lithium (and other chemistries) for hybrid and off-grid battery architectures.
  • Cable & wiring — PV MC4 home-runs, battery interconnects, and Enphase Q trunks matched to the platform.
  • Solar panel mounts — roof or ground racking where the array and AC/DC home-runs land.
  • Monitoring & control — Envoy / gateways, system controllers, and CTs for production and consumption data.
  • Charge controllers — standalone MPPT/PWM when the design DC-couples an array to a battery bank (many hybrids already include MPPT).

Shop related gear

FAQ

Do I need a hybrid or a microinverter system?

Choose hybrid when battery backup and utility interaction are primary goals in one inverter. Choose microinverters when panel-level optimization, shade, or complex roof planes matter most — then add Enphase storage hardware if you need backup. Many homes can use either path; call 877-878-4060 with your roof layout and backup goals.

Does a hybrid inverter replace a charge controller?

Often yes for the main array — many hybrids include built-in MPPT. You may still add a separate charge controller for an extra array, DC coupling, or generator/AC-coupled designs. Share array Voc and battery chemistry when you call.

Which Enphase IQ8 should I buy?

Match continuous/peak AC output and module cell count (60 vs 72) to the IQ8 part (IQ8HC, IQ8+, IQ8M, IQ8AC, or three-phase IQ8P-3P). Pair micros with the correct Q trunk cable and an Envoy gateway. Call 877-878-4060 with your module model if you want a quick match.

Why are so many inverter models archived?

We are refreshing inverter inventory after brand and platform changes. Online ACTIVE stock today centers on the Solis hybrid and Enphase IQ8 micros; for OutBack, Schneider, Fronius, or other string/off-grid units, call 877-878-4060 and we will check availability.

What else do I need besides the inverter?

Most builds also need panels, mounts, DC/AC disconnects, correctly sized wiring, and — for hybrids or off-grid — a battery bank. Microinverter systems need Q cables and usually an Envoy. Start from this hub or a kit page, then call for a bill of materials.

Can altE help size the inverter?

Yes. Share peak AC loads (or a load list), whether you need backup, battery voltage preference, and array size. Call 877-878-4060 — DIY and pro installers since 1999.

Questions about solar inverters, hybrid backup, or Enphase micros? Call an altE specialist at 877-878-4060 — DIY and pro installers since 1999.

Solar inverters convert DC from panels or batteries into AC for your home, and they are a central part of grid-tie, hybrid, microinverter, and off-grid systems.

Need help choosing an inverter?

Solar Inverters

No products found
Use fewer filters or remove all

More Info on Solar Inverters

Sizing an Off-Grid Solar Inverter

Choosing the right off grid inverter for your off-grid solar system depends on accurately calculating your electrical loads and usage patterns. The size of the inverter you need is based on your 'peak load' requirements - all the AC loads that could be turned on simultaneously.

For example, if you will be using the 1500 watt microwave, while also running 100 watts of lighting and running a refrigerator that will draw 500 watts of power, you will need an inverter that can handle at least 2100 watts (1500 + 100 + 500). Once you have identified a minimum wattage, you will select a style that has the same nominal voltage as your battery bank (12, 24, or 48 VDC).

Sizing a Grid-Tie Solar Inverter

Grid-tie inverters connect directly to the utility grid and do not require batteries. A battery-less system is much less complex (and less costly) than a system with batteries. The main drawback is that a grid-tie solar system without batteries cannot supply power to the home in the event of a power outage. For the safety of the people working on the utility lines, grid-tie inverters will shut down until power has been restored. If frequent power outages are not an issue, then a utility grid-tie system can be an excellent, cost effective option.

To qualify for most state rebate programs, you must be connected to the utility grid. We recommend you visit dsireusa.org/ for the most up to date list of solar and renewable energy incentives in your local area.

Sizing a grid-tie inverter can be a bit more complex than sizing one intended to be used with batteries. Each inverter manufacturer offers a string sizing tool that will display the acceptable configurations for your PV array, based on the quantity and wattage of your solar panels. These string sizing tools also account for variations due to high and low temperature extremes.

String Inverters, DC Optimizers & Micro Inverters


A quick comparison and overview of three types of grid tie inverters: a String Inverter by Fronius, a String Inverters with DC Optimizers by SolarEdge and a Micro Inverter by Enphase.

Grid-Tie Solar Inverters with Battery Backup

Hybrid inverters are designed to hook directly to the utility grid AND allow a battery bank to provide backup power in case of a power outage. These are typically at least 2500 watts and can operate with 24 or 48 volt DC battery banks. Some inverters are now being made to work with Tesla's Powerwall battery.

Inverters for Every Application

Browse our wide selection of off-grid and grid-tie solar inverters. We also offer marine/mobile, micro, and hybrid versions, capable of working in both off-grid and grid-tie applications. Questions about these, or perhaps string sizing for inverters? Call an altE solar system expert today at 877-878-4060!