Solar inverter with electrical isolation

Do solar power converters need isolation?

In a solar power converter, high-voltage and low-voltage circuits co-exist. Isolations are required between the high-voltage and low-voltage circuits for both functional and safety purposes. Fundamental isolation concepts and terminology are presented in references [3-4]. Digital isolators can be used to address the isolation requirements.

What is an isolation transformer in a solar inverter?

Isolation transformers play a crucial role in solar inverters. The main function of the solar inverter is to convert the direct current generated by the solar panels into alternating current for home and business use. The isolation transformer is a special transformer that electrically isolates the input circuit and the output circuit.

How does a solar inverter work?

A solar photovoltaic (PV) inverter converts electrical power from a solar panel and deploys it to the utility grid efficiently. DC power from the solar panels, which act like a dc current source, is converted to ac and fed onto the utility’s grid in the correct phase relationship—with up to 98% efficiency.

What isolation options are available for solar power conversion applications?

In response to these needs, Texas Instruments offers several isolation offerings for solar power conversion applications. These include isolated IGBT gate drivers, digital isolators, isolated delta-sigma ADCs and amplifiers, and isolated communication links such as isolated RS-485 and isolated CAN.