The hybrid inverter represents a major advance in photovoltaic solar installations. Unlike conventional inverters, which simply convert the direct current from the solar panels into alternating current that can be used by your appliances, the hybrid inverter also incorporates battery management functions and intelligent interaction with the electricity grid.

This technology allows you to store excess energy produced during the day for use when your panels are not producing, particularly at night or on cloudy days. The hybrid inverter therefore forms the heart of a complete energy system, capable of maximising your self-consumption and significantly reducing your dependence on the electricity grid.

By 2025, the hybrid inverter market has reached an impressive technological maturity, with models that are increasingly efficient, intelligent and suitable for all types of installation. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how they work, choose the right model for your needs and optimise your installation for maximum efficiency.

The hybrid inverter is a multifunctional device that combines several technologies to efficiently manage energy flows between different sources and destinations. Its operation is based on a sophisticated architecture that enables it to perform several essential roles simultaneously.

Operating principle

A hybrid inverter manages three main energy flows:

1. Solar generation: Conversion of the direct current (DC) generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) that can be used by your domestic appliances.
2. Battery storage: Intelligent management of battery charging and discharging, enabling excess solar energy to be stored and released when needed.
3. Electricity grid: Interaction with the public grid, allowing surplus energy to be injected or withdrawn when needed.

The hybrid inverter orchestrates these flows according to different operating modes, which can be configured according to your priorities:

• Self-consumption priority mode: The solar energy feeds your appliances directly, the surplus charges the batteries, and only the remaining surplus is fed into the grid.
• Grid priority mode: Solar energy is first used to charge the batteries, then to power your appliances, reducing your consumption from the grid.
• Backup mode: In the event of a mains power cut, the UPS automatically switches over to the batteries to maintain power to priority circuits.

Difference from conventional UPS

Unlike conventional inverters, hybrid inverters offer :

• Integrated battery management: No need for a separate charge controller.
• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) function: Continuity of supply in the event of a mains failure.
• Intelligent energy flow management: Automatic optimisation according to your needs and the availability of solar energy.
• Advanced monitoring: Precise tracking of production, consumption and battery status.

Advantages of hybrid inverters

Hybrid inverters offer a number of advantages over traditional solutions:

1. Maximised self-consumption: Optimum use of the energy produced by your solar panels.
2. Increased energy independence: Reduced dependence on the electricity grid.
3. Protection against power cuts: Maintains power to essential circuits in the event of a grid failure.
4. Economic optimisation: Possibility of consuming your own electricity during peak hours, when grid tariffs are higher.
5. Scalable solution: Possibility of adding additional batteries or panels as your needs change.
6. Reduced carbon footprint: Maximum use of locally produced renewable energy.

Choosing the right hybrid inverter is a crucial step in guaranteeing the performance and longevity of your solar array. A number of technical and practical criteria need to be taken into account to make the most appropriate choice for your specific needs.

Power and sizing

The power of the inverter must be adapted to your installation and your energy needs:

• Solar panel power: The inverter must be able to handle the maximum power of your photovoltaic installation. Generally speaking, the inverter's power can be slightly lower than that of the panels (ratio of 0.8 to 1) because panels rarely reach their theoretical maximum power.
• AC output power: This should correspond to the maximum simultaneous consumption of your appliances, particularly for circuits you want to supply in the event of a mains power cut.
• Overload capacity: Some appliances, such as fridges or pumps, require a lot of starting power. Check that the UPS can withstand these temporary peaks.

Number of MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracker)

The MPPT is a system that constantly optimises the production of solar panels according to sunlight conditions:

• A single MPPT: Sufficient if all your panels are installed with the same orientation and inclination, and are not subject to partial shading.
• Several MPPTs: Necessary if your panels are spread over different sides of the roof or are subject to different shading. Each MPPT independently manages a group of panels, maximising overall production.

Single-phase vs. three-phase

The choice between a single-phase or three-phase inverter depends on your electrical installation:

• Single-phase: Suitable for most residential installations. Simpler and generally less expensive.
• Three-phase: Necessary for professional installations or large homes with three-phase systems. Allows a balanced distribution of power over the three phases.

Battery compatibility

Battery compatibility is a fundamental aspect of hybrid inverters:

• Battery voltage: Check that the inverter is compatible with the voltage of your batteries (generally 48V for residential installations).
• Battery type: Some inverters are specifically designed for particular technologies (lithium, lead-acid, etc.). Others are more flexible.
• Communication protocol: For lithium batteries, make sure that the UPS can communicate with your batteries' BMS (Battery Management System).
• Maximum capacity: Check the maximum battery capacity supported by the UPS if you plan to expand your storage in the future.

Advanced features

Modern hybrid UPS systems offer a range of features that can make all the difference:

• UPS function: battery switchover time in the event of a mains failure (the shorter the better).
• Remote monitoring: Mobile applications and web portals to monitor and control your installation.
• Time programming: Possibility of defining different operating modes depending on the time of day.
• Injection limiting: Ability to limit the power injected into the grid (required in some countries).
• Parallel operation: Ability to connect several inverters to increase total power.
• AC Coupling: Ability to integrate other AC sources such as microinverters.
• Peak Shaving: Functionality for smoothing consumption peaks by using stored energy.

The hybrid inverter market in 2025 will be dominated by a number of manufacturers, each with their own specific technologies, positioning and product ranges. Here is a detailed analysis of the main brands available on wattuneed.com.

Deye (10 models)

Positioning: Deye has established itself as a major player in the hybrid inverter market, offering a wide range of solutions at competitive prices and distinguished by a wealth of functions.

Highlights:

• Wide range of power ratings (from 3.6 kVA to over 10 kVA)
• Advanced features: Deye stands out for its capabilities such asAC coupling (enabling easy integration of existing microinverters) and peak shaving (smoothing consumption peaks to reduce costs linked to subscribed power).
• Intuitive user interface
• Compatible with different types of battery
• Good value for money

Leading model: The SUN-3.6K-SG03LP1-EU (€1,593.20 inc. VAT) represents an excellent compromise between performance, advanced features and price for medium-sized residential installations.

Huawei (4 models)

Positioning: Huawei is positioned in the premium segment, with high-tech hybrid inverters incorporating advanced features.

Strengths:

• Exceptional efficiency (up to 98.4%)
• Comprehensive, intuitive FusionSolar application
• Compact, elegant design
• Proven reliability
• Regular firmware updates

Flagship models:

• SUN2000-3KTL-L1 (€802.23 incl. VAT): Excellent value for money for small installations
• SUN2000-4KTL-L1 (€981.19 inc VAT): More powerful version, ideal for family homes

Modern hybrid inverters offer much more than just energy conversion. They now incorporate advanced features that optimise energy management and considerably increase the value of your installation. Let's find out more about these innovative technologies that make all the difference.

To help you better understand how to integrate a hybrid inverter into your energy project, we have prepared four concrete examples of installations adapted to different needs. These examples will help you visualise the possibilities and estimate the associated costs.

Choosing a hybrid inverter is an important decision that will have a significant impact on the performance and profitability of your solar installation. In 2025, the market offers a wide variety of high-performance, reliable models, but it's essential to define your needs clearly and compare the different options carefully.

Summary of key points

• Maximising self-consumption: The main aim is to make maximum use of the energy you produce.
• Intelligent storage: Batteries are essential for storing excess power and using it at night or in bad weather.
• Advanced features: Options such as backup mode, time scheduling, remote monitoring, peak shaving orAC coupling add value.
• Compatibility: Make sure the inverter, panels and batteries are compatible.
• Warranties and support: Choose brands that offer good warranties and local support.

Recommendations by user profile

Next steps

1. Evaluate your exact consumption, power and storage requirements.
2. Ask a qualified installerto carry out a personalised study.
3. Compare the quotes, taking all the criteria (equipment, installation, guarantees) into account.
4. Choose the hybrid inverter that best suits your project and your budget.

Investing in a quality hybrid inverter is a decisive step towards energy autonomy and reducing your carbon footprint. Take the time to choose wisely so that you can enjoy the full benefits of solar energy for many years to come.