A string inverter sits in a central location and converts DC power from one or more series strings of panels into AC. It remains the most common architecture on unshaded Australian roofs because it is cost-effective, familiar to CEC-accredited installers, and straightforward to service from ground level. It is the wrong default only when shade or multi-facet roofs demand module-level electronics.
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Indicative 2026 pricing: a typical 6.6kW system often quotes around $5,000–$8,000 after the STC discount (metro installs often $5,000–$7,500; premium/regional can run higher). See our solar cost guide.
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Panels in a series string share current. Shade or soiling on one module can constrain the string unless bypass diodes and good design mitigate it. Multiple MPPT inputs let designers put east and west arrays on separate trackers. Ask how many panels sit on each MPPT for your roof plan.
Clean north-facing planes, simple single- or dual-aspect roofs, and budget-sensitive projects favour strings. Replacement is usually a wall-unit swap, not a roof crawl across every module. Monitoring is often system-level unless you add optimisers or module sensors.
If the string inverter fails, the whole array stops until repaired. That is why warranty, local service agents and commissioning matter. Surge protection and correct isolators are part of a compliant AS/NZS install — not optional extras.
Most Australian string inverters support export-limit control required by DNSPs on constrained feeders. Confirm the exact model is accepted and that the installer will set the approved limit during commissioning.
You can later add an AC-coupled battery or replace the string unit with a hybrid. If storage is probable under ~$372/kWh usable federal support, discuss hybrid-now versus retrofit-later costs up front on MrSolar quote comparisons.
Heavy shade, dormers, chimneys or many roof facets often justify microinverters or power optimisers. Paying for module-level gear on a perfect unshaded roof rarely pays back through FiT alone in 2026.
See whether a string design fits your roof — compare CEC-accredited quotes on MrSolar.
Written and reviewed by Daniel (Marketplace lead, Epic Unicorn Pty Ltd). We build pages from Australian solar datasets and regulatory references, then map you to CEC-accredited installers only.
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