What limits the output of an inverter in a supply side connection?

The output of an inverter in a supply-side connection is fundamentally limited by the service entrance conductor ampacity. This refers to the maximum amount of current that the conductors can safely carry without overheating, which is determined by their size and material. In a supply-side connection, the inverter feeds energy directly into the service entrance of the electrical system; hence, the conductors must be capable of handling the total output without exceeding their capacity to ensure safety and compliance with electrical codes.

If the inverter attempts to output more current than what the service entrance conductors can handle, it could lead to overheating and potentially cause insulation damage, fire hazards, or system failures. This limitation is crucial in designing and installing photovoltaic systems since proper sizing and selection of the conductors are necessary to ensure the integrity of the entire electrical system and to maintain safety.

While system voltage, inverter efficiency, and utility grid availability are factors to consider in optimizing solar power production, they do not directly limit the inverter's output in the same way that conductor ampacity does in a supply-side configuration. Understanding these distinctions is key to ensuring a safe and effective solar energy installation.