Solar Inverters

22 Jan, 2026

Choosing the right solar inverter is one of the most critical decisions when installing a solar power system. While solar panels generate energy, it is the solar inverter that determines how efficiently this energy is converted, managed, and utilized. Among the most commonly used technologies in solar inverters today are PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking).

For homeowners and businesses planning to invest in solar energy, understanding the difference between PWM and MPPT solar inverters is essential, not just for performance, but also for long-term savings, scalability, and system reliability.

This blog explains how PWM and MPPT solar inverters work, their key differences, efficiency levels, and ideal use cases, helping you choose the right solution for your needs. We also highlight how Eastman offers reliable PWM and MPPT-based Solar Inverters designed for Indian conditions.

What is a Solar Inverter & Why does technology matter?

A solar inverter converts DC (direct current) electricity produced by solar panels into AC (alternating current) electricity that can be used by household appliances or fed into the grid. However, not all inverters manage solar energy the same way.

The efficiency of a solar system depends heavily on how well the inverter:

• Extracts power from solar panels
• Adapts to changing sunlight conditions
• Manages voltage and current
• Protects the system from electrical faults

This is where PWM and MPPT technologies differ significantly.

Understanding PWM Solar Inverters

PWM is one of the earliest and simplest solar charge control technologies. In a PWM-based solar inverter, the inverter directly connects the solar panel to the battery and regulates charging by rapidly switching the connection on and off. In simple terms, PWM forces the solar panel to operate at the battery voltage, regardless of the panel’s optimal power point.

How PWM Works:

• Solar panel voltage is reduced to match battery voltage
• Excess voltage is not utilized
• Charging current is regulated through switching

Key Characteristics:

• Simple design
• Lower cost
• Best suited for small systems
• Limited efficiency under variable sunlight

Best Suited For:

• Small residential systems
• Low power backup requirements
• Budget-conscious installations
• Locations with consistent sunlight
• Short cable runs between panels and batteries

They are commonly used in entry-level solar Inverters where simplicity and affordability are the priorities.

Understanding MPPT Solar Inverters

MPPT is an advanced technology that continuously tracks the maximum power point of a solar panel, the point where voltage and current produce the highest possible power output. Instead of forcing the panel to operate at battery voltage, MPPT intelligently adjusts input voltage and current to extract maximum energy from the panels.

How MPPT Works:

• Continuously monitors solar panel output
• Adjusts operating point in real time
• Converts excess voltage into additional current
• Maximizes energy harvest throughout the day

Key Characteristics:

• Higher efficiency
• Better performance in low light
• Supports higher PV voltage
• Ideal for medium to large solar systems

Best Suited For:

• Medium to large homes
• Commercial and institutional installations
• Solar inverter + lithium battery systems
• Rooftop systems with higher PV capacity
• Areas with fluctuating sunlight conditions

Their ability to maximize energy harvest makes them the preferred choice for users looking for better ROI and long-term performance.

PWM vs MPPT: Key Differences

1. Technology

• MPPT: Advanced technology
• PWM: Basic technology

2. Energy Efficiency

• PWM: Moderate
• MPPT: High (up to 30% more)

3. PV Voltage Utilization

• PWM: Limited
• MPPT: Optimized

4. Performance in Low Light

• PWM: Average
• MPPT: Excellent

5. System Size Suitability

• PWM: Small
• MPPT: Medium to Large

6. Cost

• PWM: Lower
• MPPT: Higher

7. Future Scalability

• PWM: Limited
• MPPT: High

In Solar PCUs (Power Conditioning Units), the choice between PWM and MPPT becomes even more important because Inverters manage multiple power sources: solar, battery, and grid.

• PWM Inverters are suitable for basic solar charging and backup.
• MPPT Inverters offer intelligent power prioritization, faster charging, and better battery utilization, especially with lithium batteries. Eastman offers Solar Inverters with both PWM and MPPT technology, allowing users to select the right configuration based on load requirements and system size.

Efficiency Comparison: Why MPPT Wins

Efficiency is where MPPT clearly outperforms PWM. Since MPPT inverters operate solar panels at their optimal voltage, they can extract 20–30% more energy compared to PWM systems, especially during:

• Early morning
• Late evening
• Cloudy weather
• Winter months

PWM inverters, while reliable, lose potential energy whenever panel voltage exceeds battery voltage. MPPT-based Solar Inverters are designed to handle wide PV voltage ranges, higher PV power, and intelligent energy conversion, making them far more efficient for modern solar installations.

Why MPPT is Better for Lithium Battery Systems:

Lithium batteries operate efficiently across wider voltage ranges and support faster charging. MPPT technology complements lithium batteries by:

• Delivering optimized charging current
• Reducing charging time
• Improving battery lifespan
• Enhancing overall system efficiency

This is why MPPT-based Solar Inverters are strongly recommended for Solar Inverter + Lithium Battery combinations.

Why Eastman Solar Inverter Stands Out

With decades of expertise in power electronics, Eastman offers a comprehensive range of PWM and MPPT-based Solar Inverters designed for Indian operating conditions.

Key Advantages:

• Solar Inverters ranging from small residential to high-capacity systems
• Advanced DSP-based PWM & MPPT technology
• Wide PV voltage range support
• High conversion efficiency
• Built-in protections (overload, short circuit, PV reverse protection)
• Compatibility with lead-acid and lithium batteries
• 60-month warranty on Solar PCUs
• We manufacture In- House and are proudly made in India
• Real-time monitoring option through the Eastman One App
• Backward integration for critical components (power electronics)

Eastman’s Solar Smart and Solar Smart Max series ensure reliable solar performance whether you choose PWM or MPPT technology.

Conclusion

Both PWM and MPPT solar inverters have their place in solar power systems. PWM inverters are cost-effective and suitable for small, basic setups, while MPPT inverters deliver superior efficiency, flexibility, and long-term value.

For users aiming to maximize solar generation, reduce electricity bills, and future-proof their investment, MPPT technology is the clear winner. With advanced Solar Inverters that support both PWM and MPPT technologies, Eastman empowers homeowners and businesses to choose the right solution based on their energy needs and budget.

Explore Eastman’s PWM & MPPT Solar Inverters; engineered for efficiency, durability, and long-term savings.

• Contact Eastman for more information.
• Explore Eastman PWM solar Inverter Solutions.
• Explore Eastman MPPT solar Inverter Solutions.
• Get to know your nearest Store Locator for convenience.

FAQ’s

Q. Is MPPT always better than PWM?

A. Yes, in terms of efficiency and performance, MPPT outperforms PWM, especially in larger systems.

Q. Is PWM suitable for lithium batteries?

A. PWM can work, but MPPT is recommended for optimal lithium battery performance.

Q. Does MPPT increase solar power output?

A. MPPT does not increase panel capacity but extracts more usable power from the same panels.

Q. Is MPPT worth the extra cost?

A. Over time, higher efficiency and energy savings justify the higher upfront cost.

Q. Which inverter is better for Indian weather conditions?

A. MPPT inverters perform better under variable sunlight and high temperatures.