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Inverters in ICON Solar Roof Systems
What an Inverter Does
Solar inverters convert the direct current (DC) electricity produced by photovoltaic cells into alternating current (AC) electricity used by homes and the electrical grid.
ICON System Context
ICON solar roofing systems are designed around modern multi-MPPT string inverters, allowing different roof orientations and production conditions to operate independently through intelligent system design.
String Inverter Architecture
ICON systems typically use string inverters equipped with multiple Maximum Power Point Trackers (MPPTs).
Each MPPT allows groups of solar tiles with similar production characteristics to operate independently from other groups on the roof.
This enables designers to account for:
• different roof orientations
• varying solar exposure
• localized shading conditions
• different roof planes or elevations
By grouping tiles with similar solar irradiance profiles, the inverter can optimize production across the entire roof.
Intelligent String Design
Effective solar performance begins with proper electrical layout.
Solar tiles with similar production characteristics are grouped into the same string.
For example:
• East-facing roof sections that receive strong morning sunlight are typically grouped together.
• West-facing sections that receive afternoon sunlight are placed on separate strings.
This ensures the production profile of one roof plane does not limit the performance of another.
Managing Shading Conditions
Local shading does not automatically make a roof area unsuitable for solar.
Architectural features such as dormers, chimneys, or changes in roof elevation can create temporary shading during portions of the day. In many cases these roof areas still receive substantial sunlight once shading clears.
With proper system design, these areas can remain productive parts of the solar roof.
Why ICON Does Not Use Microinverters or Optimizers
Some solar systems use module-level electronics such as microinverters or power optimizers attached to each panel.
ICON solar roofing systems are not designed to operate with these devices.
Instead, ICON relies on system-level design and multi-MPPT inverter architecture to manage differences in solar exposure across the roof.
This approach reduces system complexity and avoids placing additional electronics beneath the roofing system.
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When Module-Level Electronics Are Typically Used
Microinverters or optimizers are often used when solar panels with very different production characteristics are combined within the same electrical circuit.
This can occur when:
• roof orientations are mixed within the same string
• shading conditions vary significantly within a circuit
• system layouts combine panels with different performance profiles
When solar tiles are grouped according to their irradiance profile and connected to separate MPPT inputs, these situations are typically avoided.
Certifications & Standards Alignment
ICON is designed to align with applicable building, electrical, and safety standards governing roof-integrated photovoltaic systems. System design, material selection, and integration methods reflect requirements commonly applied to residential and light commercial roofing and solar installations.
Applicable standards include recognized electrical safety, fire classification, mechanical integrity, and code compliance frameworks used by authorities having jurisdiction in the United States and select international markets. These standards inform system architecture, installation requirements, and inspection criteria.
Independent testing, certifications, and code documentation supporting ICON system design are maintained separately to ensure transparency and traceability.