What characterizes a central inverter in a PV system?

A central inverter is characterized by its size and location within a photovoltaic (PV) system. It is typically employed in larger solar installations and is designed to handle extensive amounts of power, often ranging in the megawatt (MW) scale. This high capacity allows it to convert the DC electricity generated by large arrays of PV panels into AC electricity suitable for use in the electrical grid or for direct consumption.

The requirement for a central inverter is particularly relevant in utility-scale projects, where multiple rows or fields of solar panels are connected to a single inverter unit. This centralization simplifies the system architecture and can lead to cost savings due to economies of scale.

In contrast, inverters installed on each PV module are referred to as microinverters, which serve a different purpose and are more commonly found in residential or small commercial systems. Additionally, central inverters do not have built-in energy storage capabilities—they solely convert energy rather than storing it, which is a function of separate battery systems. Lastly, central inverters require the direct connection of multiple PV source circuits to manage the overall power output effectively for the connected solar array. Thus, the central inverter's primary characteristic is its capacity and role in managing large-scale solar power generation, making the reference to the MW range