SMA is well known in the solar industry for their Sunny Boy string inverter series, which is both reliable and highly efficient. One of their lesser known products is the Sunny Boy microinverter, which is approved for 60 cell modules, and is rated at 250 watts. It is currently unknown whether SMA will be launching more microinverters to match high-watt modules, but they are currently phasing out their 250 watt microinverters. They will be available for a limited time until inventory runs out, and for those interested in microinverter technology they are worth looking into.

The microinverters feature industry leading 96% efficiency and provide simple installation and an innovative communications platform especially designed for residential systems with complex or shaded situations. The Sunny Multi-gate-US allows for fewer components exposed to heat stress under the module and greatly improves communication reliability versus other microinverter systems. Their improved cabling concept further elevates the Sunny Boy 240 from the competition by eliminating the need for a trunk cable.

The efficiency of the Sunny Boy microinverter can be analyzed via the world’s largest PV monitoring database. The technology can be used anywhere in the world with an Internet connection, there owners can access real-time data and enjoy pinpoint control with fast error detection. Advances in module-level monitoring configuration allows installers and homeowners numerous levels of customized data that provides deep insight into the solar systems performance and quick correction at any sign of issue on a modular level.

The Sunny Boy 240-Us offers a new dimension in flexibility. While other microinverters require use of their proprietary cabling system, the Sunny Boy 240-US features a variety of DC plug-in options including MC4 and Tyco. Additionally, AC wiring is a snap thanks to pre-assembled plugs and connection cables. This turnkey approach to microinverter installation is designed to support installers with maximum flexibility, simplicity and superior SMA technology.

Microinverters offer a wide range of applications: Partial Shading, one MPP tracker per module ensures optimal energy production, even with dynamic shading.

Multiple Orientations: Installers can now use roof space on multiple sides of a home to generate power.

Optional Use of Roof Surface: Complex roof configurations can be used to maximize system output without impacting the rest of the system.

Small Systems: Whether on the balcony or in the garden, even the smallest PV system can utilize microinverters while retaining the ability to ad on later.

Regardless of the limited availability of the Sunny Boy microinverter, the company is strong, with 30 plus years in the solar industry and a strong presence that shows that the company will not be phasing out of the industry anytime soon. The microinverters come with a ten-year warranty period, which the company will be around to support long past the end of its warranty period. SMA has also proven that it will continue to produce highly efficient string inverters, with technological updates coming on an almost yearly basis. It is possible that their microinverters will come back in the future, however those who want to take advantage of the technology in the present should get enough to cover their entire system as it isn’t clear when more microinverters may be produced. Homeowners should also ensure that the system configuration is sound prior to making a purchase as the limited time microinverters are non-cancellable and nonrefundable.