A Comprehensive Comparison of Solis and GoodWe Inverter

1 May, 2025.

As the solar energy industry continues to grow, the demand for reliable and efficient inverters has become increasingly important. Among the many brands available, Solis and GoodWe are two widely used names, especially in residential and small commercial installations. Both companies offer a broad range of products, but they differ in terms of performance, features, warranties, and value. This comparison aims to help installers, homeowners, and investors choose the right inverter for their solar PV system.

ABOUT SOLIS SOLAR INVERTER

Solis is a globally recognized brand of solar inverters manufactured by Ginlong Technologies Co. Ltd., a Chinese company established in 2005. Ranked as the world's third-largest photovoltaic (PV) inverter manufacturer, Solis specializes in providing efficient and reliable solar and energy storage solutions for residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications.

A Solis solar inverter is an electronic device that converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used to power homes and businesses or fed into the electrical grid. Solis inverters are particularly known for their string inverter technology, which connects multiple solar panels in series, optimizing energy conversion efficiency.

KEY FEATURES

• Wide Range of Power Capacities : Solis offers inverters ranging from 1 kW to 255 kW, catering to various solar power system sizes.
• High Efficiency : Certain Solis inverter models achieve up to 99% efficiency, ensuring optimal solar energy generation and increased savings.
• Advanced MPPT Technology : Solis inverters utilize Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology to extract the maximum available power from solar panels under varying conditions.
• Versatility : The inverters are compatible with various solar panel technologies and configurations, providing flexibility in system design.
• Global Recognition : Solis inverters have been deployed in high-profile locations worldwide, such as the Shanghai Expo in China and the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.

ABOUT GOODWE SOLAR INVERTER

GoodWe is a globally recognized manufacturer of photovoltaic (PV) inverters and smart energy solutions, headquartered in China. Established in 2010, the company has rapidly expanded its presence, with installations in over 100 countries and a cumulative capacity exceeding 80 GW. GoodWe's product portfolio caters to residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications, offering a range of inverters from 0.7 kW to 350 kW, as well as energy storage systems, lithium batteries, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and smart energy management solutions.

KEY FEATURES

• High Efficiency and Performance : GoodWe inverters are designed for high efficiency, with features like up to 130% DC input oversizing and 110% AC output overloading, ensuring optimal energy yield even under challenging conditions.
• Smart Energy Management : The company offers integrated solutions that include smart monitoring devices and energy management systems, enabling users to monitor and optimize their energy consumption effectively.
• Robust Global Presence : With over 5,000 employees across more than 20 countries, GoodWe maintains a strong local presence in key markets, providing comprehensive support and services to its customers.
• Recognition and Awards : GoodWe has been ranked as a global top three hybrid inverter supplier by Wood Mackenzie in 2021 and has received multiple accolades for its product quality and innovation.

COMPARISON BETWEEN GOODWE AND SOLIS

When choosing the appropriate inverter for your solar energy system, selecting between GoodWe and Solis can significantly impact your system’s performance. Both manufacturers are esteemed in the industry for their high-quality inverters, incorporating advanced technology and boasting reliable performance.

In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key features, efficiency, reliability, warranty offerings, monitoring capabilities, and other vital aspects of GoodWe and Solis inverters.

By meticulously examining these factors, our goal is to provide the insights necessary to discern which option best aligns with your specific requirements and preferences, ultimately answering the question: GoodWe vs Solis Inverters – Which Is the Better Choice?

GOODWE

• Supports 200% DC Oversizing : GoodWe inverters can accept up to twice their rated DC input, helping to maximize power generation and potentially boost system output by as much as 5%.
• 98.6% Maximum Efficiency : These inverters offer an impressive conversion efficiency of up to 98.6%, meaning nearly all the DC energy produced by your solar panels is turned into usable AC electricity.
• 40V Startup Voltage : GoodWe’s Residential Solutions inverters can begin generating power with as little as 40V, allowing them to start producing electricity earlier in the day and continue later into the evening compared to inverters that need a higher voltage to activate.
• 110% AC Overload Capability : They can temporarily manage loads up to 110% of their rated AC capacity, handling brief surges without triggering a shutdown.
• Integrated Export Limitation : Built-in export controls help comply with local grid regulations by capping how much energy is sent back to the grid, which is essential in areas with strict export rules or specific incentive programs.
• Bi-Facial Module Compatibility : These inverters work seamlessly with bi-facial panels that collect sunlight from both sides, potentially increasing total energy generation by up to 25%.
• Efficient MPPT Technology : GoodWe uses advanced MPPT algorithms to ensure solar panels always operate at peak efficiency, even when sunlight or weather conditions fluctuate.
• Smart Monitoring Features : The inverters include advanced monitoring tools accessible via app or online dashboard, allowing real-time tracking of system performance, energy production, and usage.

SOLIS

• Wide MPPT Operating Range : Solis inverters support an extensive MPPT voltage range, allowing them to efficiently capture solar energy even when sunlight is limited or panels are partially shaded.
• Superior Efficiency Rates : With peak efficiency levels between 97.5% and 98.7%, Solis inverters effectively convert a high percentage of solar energy into usable electricity, minimizing power losses.
• Low Voltage Activation : Requiring as little as 60V to start, these inverters can begin power production earlier in the day and extend generation time into the late afternoon.
• Multiple Independent MPPT Inputs : Equipped with two or more MPPT inputs, Solis inverters support diverse panel arrangements, enhancing output on rooftops with different angles or shading patterns.
• Generous DC Oversizing Capability : Solis units can handle up to 150% of their rated DC input, allowing for larger solar arrays that increase system output during optimal sunlight conditions.
• Support for AC Output Overloads : They can safely operate at up to 110% of their rated AC output for short periods, providing consistent performance during times of high solar production.
• Passive Cooling Design : Most models rely on natural convection cooling without fans, reducing mechanical wear and extending the system’s operational lifespan.
• Durable Outdoor Protection : Enclosed in IP65-rated casings, Solis inverters are resistant to dust and water, making them well-suited for outdoor installation in challenging environments.

Note: The below comparison is between the 10kW Solis inverter and the 10kW GoodWe inverter.

Feature	Solis S5 10kW	GoodWe MS-G3 10kW
Output Power (AC)	10,000 W	10,000 W
Max. DC Input Power	Up to 15,000 W (150% DC/AC ratio)	Up to 15,500 W (155% DC/AC ratio)
Startup Voltage	180 V	50 V
MPPT Voltage Range	160 V – 1000 V	80 V – 1000 V
Max. Efficiency	98.5%	98.2%
Number of MPPTs	2	3
Max. Input Current per MPPT	16 A	20 A
Cooling Method	Natural convection (fanless)	Natural convection (fanless)
Protection Features	AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter), IP66 rating	AFCI (optional), PID recovery, Type III SPD (Surge Protection Device) on both DC & AC sides, IP66 rating
Monitoring & Communication	RS485, Wi-Fi, GPRS; compatible with SolisCloud for remote monitoring and updates	RS485, 4G; compatible with GoodWe SEMS Portal for remote monitoring and updates
Dimensions (W x H x D)	310 x 563 x 219 mm	516 x 425 x 180 mm
Weight	17.8 kg	26 – 30 kg (varies by model)
Warranty	5 years standard (extendable)	10 years standard (extendable)

Conclusion

Choosing between Solis and GoodWe inverters ultimately depends on your specific energy needs, budget, and long-term goals. Both brands offer robust performance, high efficiency, and dependable customer support, but each brings unique strengths to the table.

Solis inverters are well-regarded for their affordability, simplicity, and strong performance in residential solar systems. They’re a great fit for homeowners seeking reliable, easy-to-install solutions with good monitoring capabilities and low maintenance requirements.

On the other hand, GoodWe inverters stand out for their innovation, hybrid functionality, and suitability for both residential and commercial applications. With advanced features like battery compatibility, integrated backup options, and sophisticated energy management tools, GoodWe is ideal for users looking to maximize energy independence and future-proof their systems.

When making a decision, consider factors such as system size, potential for future energy storage, local grid regulations, warranty terms, and available technical support. Whether you choose Solis or GoodWe, both are solid investments in solar technology that can drive long-term energy savings and environmental benefits.

Want to explore solar inverters from Solis and GoodWe? Contact Sunselect today to find the perfect inverter for your needs.

Reach Out to SunSelect at 1300 867 353 for Expert Guidance and Money-Saving Options.
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