The differences between standard or conventional inverters and transformerless inverters are:
1. Conventional converters are built with an internal transformer that synchronizes the DC voltage with the AC output.
2. Transformerless (TL) inverters use a multi-step computerized process and electronic components to convert DC to high frequency AC, back to DC, and ultimately to standard AC frequency.
Transformerless inverters are increasing in popularity in European and Australian markets. In 2010, SMA Solar Technology AG obtained the first UL certification for its transformerless inverters, thus increasing the availability of products for residential consumers in the United States.
Inverter Transformerless (TL) Resource
Transformerless inverters are lightweight, compact and relatively inexpensive. Since transformerless inverters use electronic switching rather than mechanical switching, the amount of heat and humidity produced by standard inverters is greatly reduced.
TL inverters maintain the unique ability to utilize two power point followers that allow facilities to be treated as separate photovoltaic solar systems. In other words, with TL inverters, photovoltaic solar panels can be installed in two different directions (ie north and west) on the same roof and generate DC output at separate peak hours with optimal effects. Traditional inverters operate through a single power point, which means that the panels that are performing at low frequencies will decrease the DC output for the entire system.