The DC/AC ratio is your panel capacity divided by your inverter’s AC rating. A 6 kWp array on a 5 kW inverter has a ratio of 1.2. A moderate ratio above 1 is common, because panels rarely deliver their full rated power in real conditions.
Why connect more panels than the inverter rating?
Heat, dust, sun angle and cable losses mean panels usually produce less than their kWp rating. A little extra panel capacity keeps the inverter working closer to its full output for more hours, which raises total energy.
What is clipping?
At the sunniest moments, an oversized array can produce more than the inverter can deliver. The inverter then caps its output: this is clipping. Small amounts of clipping at midday are normal and usually outweighed by the gain in morning and afternoon.
What limits the ratio?
Each inverter has a maximum DC input in its datasheet. The Supernova 3-Phase allows up to 150% DC overloading:
| Model | AC rating | Maximum panel input |
|---|---|---|
| 5kT+ | 5 kW | 7,500 W |
| 10kT+ | 10 kW | 15,000 W |
| 15kT+ | 15 kW | 22,500 W |
For other models, check the datasheet. Your installer also checks string voltage and current limits, not just total wattage.
FAQs
What DC/AC ratio is best?
It depends on location, roof direction and the inverter’s limits. Your installer chooses it during design; stay within the datasheet maximum.
Does oversizing damage the inverter?
Not when it stays within the manufacturer’s stated input limits. The inverter simply caps its output.