Best Solar Inverters UK 2026: Compare Models — comparing the top 14

What to look for in a solar inverter

String, hybrid, or microinverter: A standard string inverter converts the combined DC output of your panels to AC. A hybrid inverter does the same but adds a battery port — useful if you plan to add storage now or later. Microinverters mount on each panel, eliminating shading losses but at roughly 30–40% higher cost.

Sizing the inverter: Inverter capacity is usually 80–100% of your array's peak DC output. UK roofs rarely hit nameplate peak (cloud cover, suboptimal pitch), so a 5kW inverter on a 5.5kWp array (an under-sized inverter ratio of ~0.9) clips negligible energy in practice and saves cost.

Hybrid vs add-on battery: A hybrid inverter is more efficient (DC-coupled — power goes through the inverter once) and slightly cheaper than buying a string inverter plus a separate battery inverter later. If a battery is in your 2-year plan, choose hybrid now.

MPPT count and shading: Each Maximum Power Point Tracker handles one string of panels independently. If your roof has shading or split orientations (east + west), choose an inverter with 2+ MPPTs so each section optimises separately — otherwise the shaded string drags down the whole array.

Warranty and serviceability: Most string inverters offer 10-year warranties; some premium options extend to 12. SolarEdge, Enphase, and SMA have strong UK service networks. Check warranty terms (some include labour, some don't) before specifying.