The primary difference between a hybrid and standard inverters is what they do with the excess energy. A standard inverter will feed the excess energy back into the grid whereas a hybrid inverter can store that power into a battery bank for use in the evening when the sun's not shining.
Hybrid inverters are a much more desirable choice for new installations these days because battery storage of your excess solar energy is becoming more and more cost effective as the rate drops for the feed-in tariff to the grid.
SMA Sunny Boy Storage 2.5
This is a good option for anybody who already has solar and wants to keep their existing “grid connect unit” rather than replace it with a more efficient hybrid inverter. The SMA Sunny Body Storage 2.5 is recommended to be used as a charge controller unit that works in conjunction with your existing grid connect unit.
- Works in conjunction with a standard inverter
- Used to charge and manage battery storage
Goodwe BP Series
The Goodwe BP Series units are good for anybody who wants to upgrade their existing solar installation with a battery storage system. These units will work in conjunction with your existing grid connect unit.
- Add battery storage and keep your existing solar equipment
- Cost effective alternative to replacing your existing inverter
Sungrow Hybrid Inverter
The Sungrow hybrid inverter is a top pick mid-range unit. Suitable for most residential households energy demands. As hybrid inverter, this one unit can manage your battery storage and invert the power from your batteries and solar panels for use in the home.
- Top pick mid-ranged hybrid inverter
- Suitable for most residential households
- Integrated charge controller and inverter
- Automatically switch between battery storage and grid power
Goodwe Hybrid Inverter
This unit provides the same functionality as the lower tier Sungrow hybrid inverter but can discharge at a higher wattage. The Goodwe Hybrid inverter is suitable for large residential households and businesses who have higher energy demand.
- Capable of being both grid-connected and grid-independent
- Works with both lead-acid and li-ion batteries
- IP65 dust-proof and water-proof rated
- Bi-directional energy-storage inverter
Redback Technologies
The Redback hybrid inverter is a top of the range hybrid inverter. It features true UPS capacities; meaning that it can work without the need of a grid connection if there is a power blackout or if your home is a totally off-grid premes. And has specially designed software to work with both LG lithium batteries and pylontech lithium batteries.
The Redback Hybrid inverter is recommended for off-grid homes and commercial premises. Although many off-grid homes have unique needs, this hybrid inverts is a versatile, solid pick.