A solar inverter is an important piece of electrical equipment, necessary for completing the correct installation of a solar panel array, without which, the system will not function. There are different types and learning how and why they should be installed is part of the knowledge and training skills learned by students on approved solar PV courses at AbleSkills Renewable Energy Centre.Solar PV technology is currently in the spotlight as the coalition government reviews the existing Feedin Tariff arrangements and the announcement of the launch of the Renewable Heat Incentive, a similar scheme for solar water heating. As renewable energy systems become widespread, there has been recent concerns expressed within the industry of unscrupulous installers and misleading information being given to homeowners.Known as either a solar inverter or PV inverter, this type of dedicated electrical inverter is designed to alter the direct current (DC) electricity from a photovoltaic array into alternating current (AC) to enable use with home appliances and in some circumstances, an utility grid.The three basic types are a standalone, a grid tie and battery back up, each with their own very specific application and special procedures to operate with a PV array, including maximum power point tracking and anti-islanding protection.Genuine, approved inverters are expected to have a working lifetime of at least five years and a 7 year warranty should be standard with extended warranties obtainable by the installer, direct from the manufacturer when requested. As with most mains connected equipment, inverters can be susceptible to mains borne transients, from electrical surges, lightning strikes, and especially in locations where there are overhead power lines. A trained and qualified installer should be able to easily incorporate surge suppression into the PV system, and at minimal extra cost.Inverters should be installed as close to the solar panel array as possible to minimise DC losses but because of their large size and shape, are difficult to be fitted inside a typical, residential domestic space. As a result, they are often installed within a loft area to be close to a roof installed array, leading sometimes to premature overheating during periods of hot and intense sunlight, which can lower the output rate and minimise current, despite possessing temperature regulating cooling fans. Alternative siting is always recommended with accompanying adjustment to cable specification.As with all electrical systems, installation of solar photovoltaics is not as straightforward as may be presumed without the regulatory knowledge learning and skills training to verified, approved qualification standard. At AbleSkills Renewable Energy Courses Centre, both solar PV courses and solar courses up to level 2 and 3 training provide the mandatory and accredited professional tuition necessary and practical skills approved by key national examining bodies, City & Guilds, BPEC and NICEIC to fully qualify as a verified solar PV installer.