Type of Inverter: There are three main types of inverters: string inverters, microinverters, and power optimizers. Discover trends, real-world examples, and. When it comes to solar energy systems, the number of inverters you need largely depends on several factors, including the size of your solar panel array, your energy consumption, and the type of inverter you choose. Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity, but your home runs on alternating current (AC).