As countries worldwide accelerate their push toward “dual-carbon” goals, photovoltaics (PV) are taking center stage in the global energy transition. In 2024 alone, around 530 GW of new PV capacity was added worldwide, with China contributing 277.6 GW — a 28.3% year-on-year increase.

At the heart of every PV system lies the inverter, the device that converts solar power into usable electricity. Inverters are generally divided into two categories: centralized and string. Over the past decade, string inverters have emerged as the mainstream choice, offering flexibility, adaptability, and strong potential to reduce both upfront investment and the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). By 2024, string inverters accounted for roughly 80% of global shipments, far ahead of centralized units at just 20%.

As deployment expands across residential rooftops, commercial and industrial systems, and large-scale ground plants, string inverters are evolving at an unprecedented pace. This article reviews the key technology trends and application developments shaping the market as we move into 2025.

The Core Driver: Lower Costs, Higher Efficiency

The demand for cheaper, more efficient PV systems continues to push string inverter technology forward. Three trends stand out:

1. High Voltage and High Power

Mainstream string inverters have transitioned from 1,100 V to 1,500 V DC input platforms, cutting current, raising conversion efficiency, and reducing costs. The next step is 2,000 V and beyond. Some manufacturers are already rolling out solutions in the 2,000 V / 400 kW+ range, driving down balance-of-system (BOS) costs even further.

Alongside voltage gains, power density is rising. By 2030, large-scale string inverters are expected to reach 365 kW per unit, with power density climbing from around 2.76 kW/kg in 2024 to over 3.5 kW/kg. That means more power output at lower manufacturing cost.

2. High DC/AC Overload Ratios

Pushing DC input power higher than the inverter’s rated AC power — the “overload ratio” — allows systems to maximize annual output and cut LCOE. Mainstream models now exceed 130%, while leading solutions hit 160% or more, thanks to wide MPPT voltage ranges and intelligent dynamic derating that adjusts output in real time.

3. Topology Innovation

To handle higher voltages and boost efficiency, three-level topologies (such as NPC and ANPC) have become standard in high-power inverters. At 2,000 V and beyond, research is moving into five-level and multi-level designs, further improving waveform quality, reducing stress on devices, and lowering losses.

Reliability as the Lifeline

PV plants operate in tough, variable conditions — which means inverter reliability is non-negotiable. Advances are focusing on safety, protection, and predictive maintenance.

1. DC Arc Fault Detection and Interruption (AFCI)

Arc faults are a major fire risk. The latest string inverters use advanced sensors and AI-driven algorithms to achieve near-perfect detection rates and extinguish arcs in under 500 ms. Challenges remain in long-cable and high-current scenarios, but detection accuracy is improving rapidly.

2. Structural Safety and Explosion-Proof Design

Outdoor inverters typically achieve IP65 or higher protection. To address risks from internal faults, new designs combine reinforced enclosures with intelligent pressure relief — such as predefined rupture paths and venting channels — to safely release pressure without sacrificing sealing.

3. Intelligent Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance

Instead of reacting after faults, inverters are shifting to predictive models. Using precise insulation monitoring, temperature sensing, and capacitor health checks, combined with edge/cloud AI algorithms, operators can identify risks early and carry out preventive maintenance.

Value Expansion: Control and Smart O&M

As renewable penetration rises, inverters are becoming active participants in grid stability and plant operation.

1. Grid-Forming Capability

Advanced control strategies — such as Virtual Synchronous Generator (VSG), droop control, and Virtual Oscillator Control (VOC) — allow string inverters to provide inertia and damping in weak grids. Some 320 kW+ units can now operate stably at SCR ≥ 1.1 and even deliver black-start capability. The next frontier is fault ride-through and interoperability across different strategies.

2. Power Quality and Harmonic Suppression

Using fast DSPs, optimized modulation, and active filtering, modern string inverters can keep total harmonic distortion (THDi) below 3%, even under complex grid conditions.

3. AI-Driven O&M

AI is transforming operations: minute-level forecasting, second-level IV curve scans, and AI-based fault recognition all help operators run plants more efficiently. The challenge now is integrating diverse data sources — from weather and grid data to module imagery — into actionable insights.

Industry Foundations: Semiconductors and Localization

Performance gains depend on breakthroughs in core components — and in supply chain security.

1. Silicon Carbide (SiC)

SiC MOSFETs boost efficiency above 99%, increase power density, and reduce cooling needs. High costs limit use to premium models today, but rapid capacity growth and cost reductions will drive broader adoption.

2. Gallium Nitride (GaN)

GaN is already used in microinverters and auxiliary circuits, with engineering trials underway in higher-power applications. As costs drop and voltage handling improves, GaN will play a bigger role.

3. Localization

China is rapidly closing the gap in IGBTs, SiC modules, and control chips. By 2024, localization rates hit nearly 40% for 1,500 V string inverter power modules. Domestic MCUs are also gaining traction in mid- and low-power products. Localization strengthens supply chain resilience and cost competitiveness.

Conclusion

The string inverter industry is in a period of accelerated innovation. High-voltage platforms, advanced control strategies, predictive O&M, next-generation semiconductors, and localized supply chains are converging to deliver higher efficiency, lower costs, and greater reliability.

Looking ahead, string inverters will not only consolidate their dominance over centralized designs but also become central to new scenarios: commercial rooftops, residential PV, and PV-plus-storage systems. With their evolving intelligence and grid-support capabilities, string inverters are moving from passive power converters to active energy managers.

For Ginlong (Solis) Technologies and other Chinese manufacturers at the forefront of these developments, the opportunity is clear: lead in technology, scale globally, and make a lasting contribution to the world’s clean energy transition and the achievement of dual-carbon goals.

The Tier 1 ranking stands as a testament to the company’s steadfast commitment to delivering technology characterized by unparalleled quality and reliability. This commitment is demonstrated through exceptional performance in globally recognized projects and a robust bankability profile.

Lucy Lu, the deputy general manager at Ginlong (Solis), shared her thoughts on this accomplishment, stating, “This year marks the 18th-anniversary milestone for Solis. Throughout these years, our mission has remained unchanged: ‘Developing Technology to Power the World with Clean Energy.’ In pursuit of this goal, we have consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, resulting in incredible accolades such as this Tier 1 ranking. The recent announcement underscores the relentless effort of our 4,500+ person’s strong team and 800+ R&D innovators, strategically placed across the globe. We are more motivated than ever to continue propelling advancements that will shape the future of clean energy.”

Solis technology is meticulously optimized for local markets, offering substantial long-term return on investment and expediting the transition to a more sustainable future. With a vertically integrated, state-of-the-art manufacturing capability, Solis exercises control over the entire production process – from component sourcing to product distribution. This ensures the highest possible quality standards for customers and compliance with the most stringent international regulations.

About Ginlong (Solis) :

Established in 2005, Ginlong (Solis) (Stock Code: 300763.SZ) is the world’s third-largest PV inverter manufacturer. Providing solar and energy storage solutions for residential, commercial, and utility-scale customers, Solis delivers value across the solar supply chain. The Solis brand employs innovative string technology, ensuring top-tier reliability validated through rigorous international certifications.

By integrating a global supply chain with leading R&D and manufacturing capabilities, Ginlong tailors Solis inverters to regional markets, with local experts offering exceptional service and support. The company’s proven bankability has earned support from leading financial institutions, ensuring robust, long-term returns on investment. Collaborating with stakeholders, Solis remains committed to accelerating the world’s journey towards a sustainable future.

enPossibilities will serve as the authorized channel partner for Ginlong (Solis) Technologies, responsible for the distribution of Solis inverters across India. By maintaining substantial inventories, enPossibilities will bridge the gap between solar inverters’ availability and the demands of solar installers and EPC players throughout the country. This collaboration ensures that customers in India have access to best-in-class solar inverter solutions.

Ginlong (Solis) Technologies expressed their enthusiasm about the collaboration. “We are delighted to join hands with enPossibilities as our channel partner in India,” said a representative from Ginlong (Solis) Technologies. “Their extensive distribution network and commitment to customer satisfaction make them the ideal partner to help us expand our market share and provide top-notch solar inverter solutions to Indian customers.”

enPossibilities Private Limited also expressed their excitement and commitment to the partnership. “We are proud to be chosen as the authorized channel partner for Ginlong (Solis) Technologies in India,” said a representative from enPossibilities. “This collaboration will enable us to meet the growing demand for high-quality solar inverters and serve our customers with industry-leading solutions. We look forward to a successful partnership that will contribute to India’s sustainable energy goals.”

Both companies recognize the significance of this collaboration in driving the adoption of clean energy and supporting India’s transition to renewable sources. Together, they aim to empower local installers and EPC players with reliable and efficient solar inverters, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

This collaboration between Solis and enPossibilities strengthens the capabilities of both companies to support customers with next-generation solar inverter solutions. With a shared commitment to a sustainable future, the partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of clean solar power in India.

About Ginlong (Solis) Technologies:

Ginlong (Solis) Technologies, established in 2005, is a leading manufacturer of solar inverters. The company offers cost-effective solutions for residential, commercial, and utility-scale users, delivering value across the solar supply chain. With a global supply chain, world-class R&D, and manufacturing capabilities, Ginlong optimizes its Solis inverters for regional markets, providing local expertise and support. The company’s bankability has attracted support from leading financial institutions, ensuring solid long-term returns on investment.

About enPossibilities Private Limited:

enPossibilities Private Limited, founded in 2017, is a prominent distributor of solar products in India. The company’s vision is to enable possibilities in the energy value chain and bring consumers closer to clean solar power. With an extensive portfolio of premium solar products, enPossibilities ensures the availability of quality products at affordable prices while providing exceptional customer service support. Recognized as the “Solar Products Distributor of the Year,twice in last two years, by RenewX organised by Informa markets (technical advisor EY)” enPossibilities is committed to supporting the Indian solar industry and timely access to best-in-class solar products.

Q.1 What is Ginlong Solis’s highest commissioned capacity in India?

At present in utility we are having 70MWs plant which is getting part commissioned in Assam. Considering the rooftop installation we have various 8MW to 10MW plants which are running very well across various geographies of India. Total capacity is now 2GW with more than 1 lakhs of inverters supplies so far. Globally we have supplied 20GW+ shipments.

Q.2 What new products will Solis introduce to its Indian customers? What are the key products introduced in India Renewable Leadership Summit?

Recently we have launched our off grid product in the range of 4k – 5k. These product are the having top notch design which can support Solar PV, Grid or any other generation source and External Battery pack. It can operate in conditions where there is no grid at all and can also be used to optimize the overall system efficiency by drawing minimum power from grid with no export. Another advantage for these products is the compatibility with both Lead Acid and Li-on batteries with a variety of battery brands . Product is also having the most required feature of one click fast charging. It Supports 1PH Parallel Connection- Support max 1p units parallel connection on 1PH System & Support 3PH Parallel Connection- which Support Balanced/Unbalanced parallel connection on 3PH System. Max total 10 units per system.

Q.3 Will EVs become a viable choice for mass adoption in the absence of cheaper energy storage technologies?

I think with the new policy liberalization on EV Charging stations from the central government, the flexibility of setting up the EV charging station shall be eased which is a step closer towards mass adaptation. Also I am counting on the PLI schemes to make a sustainable eco system for energy storage technologies.

Q.4 Which technology, in your opinion, will lead the solar inverter industry in the future?

I still perceive Grid Tied segment to perform well as compared to other technologies. The reason is evident from the fact that the current storage capacity is limited also the technology is already proven one. The rooftop has great penetration because of various support reasons be it a land or system’s modularity. Simultaneously Utility projects are very well adoption the string inverters which can provide better efficiency and optimize the overall O&M cost. This translates in lowering the LCOE cost of the plants.

Q.5 What is the highest rate of Solis inverter performance? Do these inverters perform equally well in all weather conditions?

All the inverters from Solis are tested under extreme test conditions like temperature test like heat run or extreme cold conditions. Solis Inverters are designed to endure these climatic extremities. We have experience of working in most toughest terrains or the world. Parallelly we are regularly sharing our knowledge sharing segment where installers and end users can get to know the best practices for handling such equipment.

Q.6 Do you detect any significant distinctions between the Indian and other large markets when it comes to inverters? What do you consider to be your most significant market challenge?

India has done very well last year in 2021 if you compare with US or Australia. Europe, Brazil and China Domestic market is still doing well which has support us in overall better revenues. We expect there would be a slight slowdown in Q1, 2022 due to the expect BCD on modules announcement but despite this I am bullish on the total installation to be done this year. Certainly, it would take some time to overcome this taxation change. Overall around increase of 30% capacity as compare to last year, would be figure which would be decent one.

Q.7 Can you tell us about Ginlong Solis’ response to the COVID19 pandemic, the following lockdown, and any financial consequences?

During the reporting period, COVID-19 brought some inevitable pressure and challenges to Ginlong Solis. However, the company’s capacity rapidly recovered increased to seize more domestic and foreign market share through the positive response of the company.” Ginlong Solis pointed in the announcement that due to the recent rapid recovery of overseas market demand, the shareholders of listed companies will increase significantly during the reporting period.

As a leading manufacturer of string inverters, Ginlong Solis has achieved steady growth in recent years. In Q3 of last year the company reported its strongest ever quarter. Yiming Wang, the president of Ginlong Solis, said that the company has launched some new products since Q3 of 2019. At the same time, the company promoted sales in traditional and emerging markets with marketing channels and marketing teams. Solis expansion into overseas markets continues to increase with the growth of Ginlong Solis’s overseas offices, the company’s product improvements, new technology response and competitive prices. As a result, , Ginlong Solis boosted its global market share.

In Q3 of 2020, since there is no time limit for pre-installation of residential systems, the average monthly installation numbers continue to grow. Sales of commercial inverters are growing rapidly as component and system costs continue to come down. “We expect several markets may exceed 1GW each year, and there will be a gradual improvement over time as installations accumulate and years of use grow.

Q.8 What are your plans in India over the next two years? Is there anything new you’re intending to release in the first half of 2022?

We are aggressive about the India market and so is the response. We are very strong in residential and C&I with the total installation, that’s why we are the No 1 Solar Inverter Company of India, and achieved almost 80% growth as compared to last years overall. Projects with our utility product of 255k picking up very fast with total installation around 300MW by FY 2021. Next two years we are planning to achieve 80% to 90% growth. This year we are also in process to launch many more products in storage and Utility segments. Utility product shall be of higher capacity than our present product with more advanced features.

About Ginlong Technologies:

Established in 2005, Ginlong (Solis) Technologies (Stock Code: 300763.SZ) is one of the most experienced and largest manufacturers of solar PV string inverters. Presented globally under the Solis brand, the company’s portfolio uses innovative string inverter technology to deliver first-class reliability that has been validated under the most stringent international certifications. Armed with a global supply chain, world-class R&D and manufacturing capabilities, Ginlong optimizes its inverters for each regional market, servicing and supporting its customers with its team of local experts.