Inverter Directory UK (2026)
The microinverter is the heart of any plug-in solar system — it converts your panels' DC output to mains-compatible AC. Here's what's available in the UK, what to look for, and what to avoid.
What does a microinverter do?
Solar panels produce DC (direct current) electricity, but your home runs on AC (alternating current). A microinverter sits between the panel and your wall socket, converting DC to AC at the correct voltage and frequency for the UK grid (230V, 50Hz).
Crucially, any inverter you plug into a UK socket must have anti-islanding protection. This means it automatically shuts off if the grid goes down — preventing your system from feeding power into lines that engineers might be working on. Look for CE or UKCA certification as a minimum.
Safety warning: Never buy an unbranded or uncertified microinverter from marketplace sellers. Inverters without proper anti-islanding protection are a safety hazard and may not be legal to connect to the UK grid.
Plug-in microinverters
Designed specifically for plug-in solar setups. These connect directly to a standard wall socket and include app-based monitoring.
EcoFlow PowerStream 800W
The most popular plug-in microinverter in the UK market. Supports up to 800W input from two panels, integrates with EcoFlow power stations for battery storage, and has a well-designed monitoring app. Anti-islanding certified.
EcoFlow PowerStream 400W
Lower-wattage version for single-panel setups or smaller budgets. Same app and battery integration as the 800W, just limited to one panel input. Ideal for small balconies or starter systems.
EcoFlow STREAM Microinverter 800W
EcoFlow's next-generation microinverter — the successor to the PowerStream. 2 MPPT channels with up to 1,200W total PV input (600W per channel), 800W grid-tied AC output, and just 3.2 kg. Compatible with the STREAM battery range for direct solar-to-battery charging. Works with 99% of MC4 panels on the market. At £129 it's significantly cheaper than the PowerStream while being more powerful.
Hoymiles HMS-800W-2T
A dual-input microinverter popular in Europe's balcony solar market. 800W capacity across two panel inputs. Requires a separate DTU (data transfer unit) for monitoring. Solid track record in the German/Dutch market.
Bosswerk MI600 V2
German-designed plug-in microinverter with a strong following on the continent. 600W output, dual MPPT, and built-in Wi-Fi for monitoring. Less well-known in the UK but competitively priced.
Quick comparison
| Inverter | Max input | AC output | Battery | Monitoring | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EcoFlow STREAM 800W | 1,200W | 800W | STREAM batteries | App | £129 |
| EcoFlow PowerStream 800W | 800W | 600W | Delta/River series | App | £299 |
| EcoFlow PowerStream 400W | 400W | 400W | Delta/River series | App | £199 |
| Hoymiles HMS-800W-2T | 800W | 800W | No | DTU | £180 |
| Bosswerk MI600 V2 | 600W | 600W | No | Wi-Fi | £150 |
Our take: For new setups in 2026, the EcoFlow STREAM Microinverter is the best value — more powerful than the PowerStream at less than half the price, with direct compatibility with the new STREAM battery range. The PowerStream 800W remains a great choice if you already own EcoFlow Delta or River power stations. If you don't need battery integration at all, the Hoymiles is a proven, reliable alternative.
Frequently asked questions
What is anti-islanding and why does it matter?
Anti-islanding is a safety feature that automatically disconnects your inverter from the grid if mains power is lost. Without it, your system could feed electricity into lines that engineers are working on — which is extremely dangerous. Every inverter sold for plug-in use in the UK must have this feature. Look for EN 50549 or G98/G99 compliance.
Can I plug a microinverter into any socket?
Technically yes, but it should be a dedicated circuit or at least a socket that isn't heavily loaded. The inverter feeds power into your home's wiring, and you don't want to overload a circuit. Avoid extension leads or multi-socket adapters — plug directly into a wall socket.
What's the difference between a microinverter and a string inverter?
A microinverter is attached to each panel (or pair of panels) and converts DC to AC at the panel level. A string inverter handles a whole array of panels at once. For plug-in solar, you'll almost always use a microinverter — string inverters are for larger rooftop installations and require professional wiring.
Does the inverter limit how much power I can feed in?
Yes. The inverter's AC output rating determines the maximum power fed into your home. An 800W-input inverter with a 600W AC output (like the PowerStream) will clip output at 600W even if your panels are producing more. In practice, UK panels rarely hit their rated maximum anyway, so this is rarely an issue.