Factors Affecting the Service Life of PV Inverters – Advantages of Energy Storage Systems in Cooperation with Growatt
1.Performance and Lifespan of Electronic Components
Solar inverters are the core equipment in photovoltaic (PV) power systems, and their performance and lifespan directly impact system stability and energy generation efficiency. Due to limitations from internal electronic components, the lifespan of inverters usually does not align with the full lifecycle of a PV plant, which means the inverter typically needs to be replaced at least once during the system’s lifespan. As a partner providing storage systems in collaboration with Growatt, we use high-quality Growatt inverters and storage products, ensuring the system operates efficiently and stably while also optimizing the selection of components to extend the inverter’s lifespan.
The lifespan of a solar inverter is determined by the quality and durability of its internal electronic components. Key components include power devices (such as IGBTs and MOSFETs), capacitors, inductors, diodes, resistors, and sensors. The lifespan variation between different components directly affects the overall performance of the inverter. Resistors, surface-mount capacitors, and ceramic capacitors typically have a lifespan of over 20 years. Inductors and transformers are designed to last longer and can theoretically operate stably as long as the working temperature does not exceed the limit. Low-power diodes and transistors usually last over 100,000 hours. However, electrolytic capacitors are a weak link in inverters, as they are highly sensitive to environmental temperature. In high-temperature conditions, the lifespan of electrolytic capacitors will significantly shorten, which could even lead to inverter failure. Temperature fluctuations in different environments have a pronounced effect on electrolytic capacitors. As a partner of Growatt, we specifically select their high-performance electrolytic capacitors and quality components to ensure the inverter runs efficiently over the long term, thereby maximizing its lifespan.
2.Impact of Installation Environment on Lifespan
The installation environment of solar inverters plays a crucial role in determining their lifespan, particularly temperature and humidity. High temperatures accelerate the aging of electronic components. During operation, inverters generate heat, and if the installation environment is excessively hot, the internal temperature of the inverter rises, reducing its performance. Especially in environments with direct sunlight or poor air circulation, the inverter’s temperature may become too high, triggering frequent overheat protection mechanisms and affecting operational stability. To prevent overheating, it is best to install the inverter in shaded areas or under the modules, which can avoid direct sunlight and ensure good heat dissipation. In collaboration with Growatt, we choose compatible installation environments and high-quality heat dissipation designs to ensure that inverters maintain optimal performance under different climatic conditions, thereby minimizing the impact of temperature fluctuations on their lifespan
Humid environments can damage the circuit boards and components of the inverter, leading to short circuits, corrosion, and other issues. Particularly in coastal areas or areas with frequent rainfall, moisture accelerates the aging of inverters. To enhance inverter reliability in humid environments, anti-moisture protection measures can be added, such as applying anti-moisture coatings or using more sealed enclosures. In our collaboration with Growatt, we emphasize equipment design for moisture protection to counter the challenges posed by humid environments.
3.Impact of Grid Quality on Inverter Lifespan
The quality of the grid has a direct impact on the operation of inverters. Voltage fluctuations, harmonic interference, and frequency variations in the grid can all increase the load on inverters and shorten their lifespan. Voltage instability, especially excessive high or low voltage fluctuations, forces inverters to make frequent adjustments and protection actions. This frequent switching increases the load on the equipment, thereby shortening its lifespan. Prolonged voltage fluctuations can also damage the internal power components of the inverter. Harmonic interference in the grid leads to reduced efficiency of the inverter. To adapt to the grid waveform, inverters continuously adjust their output, placing a greater burden on internal components and accelerating equipment aging. This issue is particularly severe in industrial areas or environments with large power-consuming devices. To reduce the impact of harmonics, higher-quality inverters can be used, or filters can be installed at the grid entry point to mitigate harmonic interference. As a partner of Growatt, we use their inverters, which are highly adaptable to grid quality, ensuring stable long-term operation and reducing the impact of voltage fluctuations and harmonic pollution on inverter lifespan.
4.Role of Regular Maintenance in Extending Lifespan
The maintenance and management of inverters directly influence their lifespan. Regular inspections, cleaning, and maintenance can identify potential issues early and prevent failures caused by neglect. Dust accumulation on both the internal and external parts of the inverter can affect its heat dissipation, leading to overheating. Regular cleaning of dust, dirt, and other contaminants ensures optimal heat dissipation, extending the inverter’s lifespan. Particularly, cleaning the heat sinks and fan areas is critical. Corrosive substances in the environment can damage the inverter’s enclosure and internal components. This is especially problematic in coastal areas, where salt fog has a strong corrosive effect on the inverter. Therefore, regularly checking the integrity of the inverter’s enclosure and replacing any corroded components can significantly extend the lifespan of the equipment. In addition to routine cleaning, performing regular performance checks, including monitoring the inverter’s operational status, temperature, and output power, can help identify potential faults. For instance, if abnormal high temperatures or a decrease in output power is detected, this could indicate aging components such as capacitors or power modules. Timely replacement of these parts prevents further damage to the equipment.
5.Conclusion
The factors affecting the lifespan of inverters are diverse and complex, but by implementing appropriate environmental design, regular maintenance, and proper management, their lifespan can be significantly extended. As a deeply collaborative storage system provider with Growatt, we select their high-performance inverters, combining them with an optimized installation environment, enhanced grid adaptability, and high-standard maintenance protocols to provide customers with stable and efficient photovoltaic storage solutions.By adopting Growatt’s advanced technologies and products, we not only improve the lifespan of solar inverters but also ensure the long-term stable operation of PV power systems, enhancing the overall economic benefits of the system.