Microinverter Sizing Calculator

Plan microinverters using module and site conditions. See sizing checks, branch limits, and risks. Download clear CSV and PDF reports now.

Inputs

Large screens: three columns. Smaller: two columns. Mobile: one column.
* required
Use STC nameplate watts per module.
Open-circuit voltage per datasheet.
Short-circuit current per datasheet.
Usually negative (e.g., -0.29).
Often small and positive.
Used to estimate cold Voc and Isc.
Enter the full array module count.
Most designs use one module per unit.
Optional wiring/soiling allowance before DC/AC ratio.
Rated continuous output power.
Max recommended PV input power.
Check against cold Voc.
Check against cold Isc.
Used for output current estimate.
Continuous loading assumed at 80%.
Common range: 1.15–1.30.
Reset

Example Data Table

Use these sample entries to compare typical module and microinverter ranges.

Module (W) Voc (V) Isc (A) Micro AC (W) Micro max DC (W) Max V (V) Max I (A) Typical DC/AC
40049.010.230042060131.30
42049.510.835046060141.20
45552.011.038450065151.18

Formula Used

Cold Voc and Isc estimates

The calculator uses a conservative temperature adjustment from 25 degC to your minimum ambient.

  • deltaT = 25 − Tmin
  • Voc(cold) = Voc(STC) × (1 + |TCvoc|/100 × deltaT)
  • Isc(cold) = Isc(STC) × (1 + TCisc/100 × deltaT)

Micro sizing and branch planning

  • Micros required = ceil(total modules ÷ modules per micro)
  • Effective DC per micro = (module W × modules per micro) × (1 − losses%)
  • Actual DC/AC = effective DC per micro ÷ micro AC
  • Micro current = micro AC ÷ grid VAC
  • Max on branch = floor((0.8 × breaker A) ÷ micro current)

Always verify against the manufacturer datasheet and local electrical rules before final design.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter module watts, Voc, and Isc from the module datasheet.
  2. Add temperature coefficients and your minimum ambient temperature.
  3. Enter the microinverter AC rating and its electrical limits.
  4. Choose modules per unit, then set breaker and grid voltage.
  5. Press Submit to view checks and recommended sizing values.
  6. Download CSV or PDF to save results for records.

Practical tips

  • Keep cold Voc under the micro max voltage.
  • Keep cold Isc under the micro max current.
  • Target DC/AC near 1.20 for balanced clipping.
  • Use branch estimates to plan circuit count early.

Performance Notes

Microinverter sizing begins with module nameplate watts, then checks voltage and current at cold conditions. With a 420 W module and one module per unit, effective DC per micro becomes 412 W after 2% allowance. If the micro continuous AC rating is 350 W, the actual DC/AC ratio is about 1.18, which typically limits clipping while improving annual energy.

To support financial comparison, total system DC is module watts multiplied by module count, while total system AC is micro AC multiplied by micro count. These totals help estimate capacity factor, export limits, and expected clipping under high irradiance and temperatures for long-term ROI planning.

DC/AC Ratio Targets

Many residential designs target 1.15 to 1.30. Below 1.10, hardware cost per watt often rises. Above 1.35, midday clipping becomes more likely on clear days. This calculator flags risk bands: Low under 1.25, Medium from 1.25 to 1.34, and High at 1.35 or above. Use the recommended AC value to align your target ratio.

Cold Voltage Compliance

Cold Voc is estimated from your Tmin using the module temperature coefficient. For example, Voc 49.5 V, TCvoc −0.29%/degC, and Tmin −5 degC gives deltaT 30. Voc(cold) becomes roughly 53.8 V. If the micro maximum input voltage is 60 V, the margin is about 6.2 V. Low margin should trigger a datasheet review.

Input Current Margin

Current increases slightly as temperature drops. With Isc 10.8 A and TCisc 0.05%/degC, the same 30 degC delta raises Isc(cold) to about 11.0 A. Compare this value to the micro maximum input current. When using two modules per unit on dual-input models, repeat the check per channel, not only total.

Branch Circuit Planning

Branch sizing uses a continuous loading approach. Output current per unit is estimated as micro AC divided by grid voltage. At 350 W and 240 VAC, that is 1.46 A. A 20 A breaker allows 16 A continuous, supporting about 10 units per branch. The calculator reports max units and estimated branches to guide early layout and conduit planning.

FAQs

What does the DC/AC ratio tell me?

It compares effective module DC per microinverter to the micro’s AC rating. Higher ratios can boost annual energy but increase clipping at peak sun. Many designs land near 1.15–1.30.

Why is cold Voc important for microinverters?

Module voltage rises in cold weather. If cold Voc exceeds the micro maximum input voltage, shutdowns or damage risks increase. Use the cold-voltage check as a conservative screen before final verification.

How should I choose minimum ambient temperature?

Use a realistic low design temperature for the site, not an indoor value. When in doubt, choose a colder Tmin to add margin. The voltage and current checks become more conservative as Tmin decreases.

Does a “Review” status mean the design fails?

Not always. It means at least one input approaches or exceeds a limit, or the DC/AC ratio is high. Confirm datasheet ratings, input channel limits, and local requirements before accepting the design.

How accurate is the branch estimate?

It is a planning estimate using micro AC divided by grid voltage and an 80% continuous allowance on the breaker. Real limits can change with trunk cable ratings, manufacturer branch limits, and jurisdiction rules.

What should I export when sharing results?

Use CSV for spreadsheets and quick comparisons, and PDF for a clean record. Both exports capture the key checks and highlights shown above the form, making review meetings faster.


Disclaimer: This tool provides planning estimates only and is not a stamped engineering design.

Related Calculators

Solar Array Area CalculatorMonthly Solar Output CalculatorSolar Irradiance Adjustment CalculatorPanel Tilt Angle CalculatorInverter Oversizing CalculatorString Inverter SizingOptimizer Sizing CalculatorSeries Parallel Config CalculatorVoltage Limit Check CalculatorMPPT Range Calculator

Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.