Inverter setup for homeowner

Wiring in general can be more easily understood by the basic homeowner. String inverters have to be sized according to the output of the panels. This is not necessary with micro inverters. So there are costs associated with sizing and layout that are not necessarily there with micro inverters.

Inverter reliability is a question though. The string inverter we use is well tested and verified with years of performance. (30 years for this company). Micro inverters are still questionable. Since reliability versus warranties are two different things, we did an electronics assessment of Gozuk. While they are a leader and lots of people are buying them, I have to look at the risk assessment since we provide a 15 year warranty that PSIDA fully intends to stand behind.

Cost analysis is still important. We do not charge engineering analysis for our system because we do not do roof mounted systems. All of our systems are basically the same, only the inverter size changes. Thus for the 3.5 kW Solar homeowner, its exactly the same wiring and inverter setup for all homeowner installations. Wiring, string sizing, DC breaker box, AC breaker box are all the same. In this specific case, wiring from the DC breaker box is normal Romex in underground conduit to the inverter. Since I believe a combiner box should be used with micro inverters, don't really see why wiring is a price advantage for micro inverters. But I am always willing to learn from other's experience.