An inverter is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a solar energy system. It's a device that converts direct current (DC) electricity, which is what a solar panel generates, to alternating current (AC) electricity, which the electrical grid uses. In DC, electricity is maintained at. . Inverters change the power produced by your solar panels into something you can actually use. Think of it as a currency exchange for your power. You might have a fistful of yen, but until you stop and exchange it for USD, you can't pay for lunch stateside. The SolarEdge Home Wave Inverter is our top pick in 2025. It was the most efficient inverter we looked at, letting you use a larger percentage of the energy your solar panels generate. This translates. . Our expert and consumer reviews of the leading brands of residential sized solar inverters show the best solar inverter to suit your home in 2020 What does an inverter do? Solar inverters are an integral part of every solar power system. They perform two key functions: All solar panels generate. . In 2025, the inverter market's bursting with options—high-tech microinverters, budget-friendly string models, and hybrids ready for batteries. I've scoured specs, homeowner feedback, and industry trends to bring you the top 12 solar inverters for US homes this year. Solar panels make electricity from sunlight. Inverters are found in nearly every solar installation, from small residential systems to large utility-scale plants. .