Functionality:
- Inverter: Primarily designed to convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). It is commonly used in systems like solar panels, where the generated electricity is DC and needs to be converted to AC for home or industrial use. Inverters mainly ensure that this AC matches the grid’s frequency and voltage.
- PCS (Power Conversion System): While it also converts between AC and DC, its role is broader. PCS manages bi-directional power flow, meaning it can convert AC to DC (to charge batteries) and DC to AC (to discharge the stored energy into the grid). It controls the power flow both into and out of the energy storage system.
Application:
- Inverter: Typically used in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and standalone AC power applications.
- PCS: Mainly used in energy storage systems (ESS), handling power conversion and management tasks. It is crucial for battery storage systems, controlling both the charging and discharging processes.
Complexity:
- Inverter: Simpler in design, as it generally handles one-directional power conversion.
- PCS: More complex, as it performs multiple roles such as power conversion, monitoring, and managing energy flow between the battery, grid, and load.
Grid Interaction:
- Inverter: Primarily focuses on converting DC to AC to synchronize with the grid or local loads.
- PCS: Capable of both drawing power from the grid and feeding it back into the grid, optimizing energy consumption and managing demand response.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/the-difference-between-pcs-and-inverters/
