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Sofar Solar SOFAR 8KTLM-G3

Sofar Solar SOFAR 8KTLM-G3

8 kW Grid-tie Single-phase
Compare with closest alternative Datasheet PDF
Rated AC (kW)
8.00
Typical for its class
Euro eff. (%)
97.3
Weak · bottom 25%
MPPT
3
Strong · top 13%
Max DC (V)
600
Weak · bottom 24%
Weight (kg)
17.5
Typical · median 20.9 kg
Warranty (yrs)
-
Not published

The SOFAR 7KTLM-G3 series are grid-tie inverters for photovoltaic installations where stable operation with the grid and maximized yields under diverse rooftop conditions are key. Their key feature is three independent MPPTs - enabling the division of strings into different panels, handling partial shading effectively, and allowing flexible system design without significant compromises.

Users benefit from high European efficiency, meaning excellent performance under typical operating conditions in Poland - translating to more energy generated annually, not just during sunny midday hours. A valuable feature is also smart I-V curve scanning, supporting diagnostics and faster detection of module issues.

Monitoring is convenient thanks to communication (including WiFi, RS485, and often optional Ethernet) and viewing within the app. The inverter has a typical IP65 enclosure for this class, and compliance with common connection and safety standards facilitates approvals. This makes it a good choice for larger residential installations and small commercial projects.

Ranking

266 inverters from 6 to 12 kW
Metric This inverter Median Position in class Rank in class
European efficiency 97.3% 97.6% Weak · bottom 25% 141
MPPT trackers 3 2 Strong · top 13% 6
Max DC input voltage 600 V 1000 V Weak · bottom 24% 161
Weight per kW 2.2 2.3 Typical 120
Warranty - 5 yrs Not published -
Colour key Strong - top 25% Typical - middle 50% Weak - bottom 25%

Specifications

Open datasheet PDF
Rated AC power 8 kW Continuous output
Max apparent power 8.80 kVA
Phases Single-phase
Nominal AC voltage 230 V 180-276
Max AC current 40.0 A
Grid frequency 50 Hz Range 45-55 / 55-65
Power factor 1 (adjustable +/-0.8)
Harmonic distortion (THD) 3.0 %
Max DC voltage 600 V Caps the string length
MPPT voltage range 80 to 550 V
Start-up voltage 90 V
MPPT trackers 3 1 string each
Max input current per MPPT 20.0 A Must exceed the panel's Imp
Max short-circuit current per MPPT 30.0 A Must exceed the panel's Isc
European efficiency 97.3 % Weighted across part loads
Max efficiency 98.1 % Best single operating point
Dimensions 380 × 468 × 187 mm Height × width × depth
Weight 17.5 kg 2.2 kg per kW
Enclosure IP65
Cooling natural
Operating temperature -30 to 60 °C
Max humidity 100 %
Max altitude 4000 m
Interfaces Wi-FiBluetoothDisplay
Protocols RS485Wi-FiBluetooth (App)
Protection DC switchSurge protection
Certifications IEC/EN 61000-6-1/3IEC/EN 61000-3-11/12IEC 62116IEC 61727IEC 61683IEC 60068-1/2/14/30IEC/EN 62109-1/2G99VDE V 0126-1-1EN 50549-1ANRE 208

Pros and cons

5 positive · 2 caution
What owners get
3 Independent MPPTs in a Single-Phase Inverter

Having 3 MPPT trackers in a 7 kW single-phase inverter is uncommon in this class - most competitors (e.g., Fronius Primo, SMA Sunny Boy) offer only 2 MPPTs. This allows the system to be split across 3 independent roof sections with different azimuths and tilt angles without energy yield compromises.

European Efficiency of 97.3%

The datasheet-confirmed European efficiency (weighted according to Central European irradiance distribution) is 97.3%, with a peak efficiency of 98.1%. This places the inverter at the top of its segment and translates into measurably higher annual energy yields in Polish climatic conditions compared to inverters achieving 96.5-96.8% EU efficiency.

Smart I-V Curve Scanning

The integrated I-V curve scanning function enables remote diagnostics of PV string health without additional measurement equipment. It accelerates detection of issues such as shading losses, module degradation, and loose connectors, thereby reducing system operating and maintenance costs.

10-Year Standard Warranty

Sofar Solar provides a standard 10-year factory warranty for the European market (per sofarsolar.eu terms), with an extension option up to 25 years. Vendors such as Delta or GoodWe frequently offer only 5-7 years as standard, making this a significant after-sales advantage.

Grade A Rating per Wood Mackenzie H1 2025

Sofar Solar has been accredited as a Grade A inverter manufacturer in the Wood Mackenzie H1 2025 report, confirming compliance with rigorous ESG criteria, R&D investment levels, and financial stability. Grade A status is material for the bankability of commercial projects and for insurers.

Trade-offs
Asymmetric MPPT Input Current Ratings

MPPT1 supports up to 20 A, while MPPT2 and MPPT3 are each rated at only 16 A (per manufacturer datasheet). When using high-current bifacial modules (Isc > 14 A, Imp > 13 A) on the second or third string, the 16 A ceiling may become a limiting factor in module selection and will require additional design verification.

Maximum MPPT Voltage of 550 V

The upper MPPT operating limit is 550 V, which is lower than the 600 V offered by the Fronius Primo G2 or SMA Sunny Boy 6.0. In practice, this restricts the maximum string length for standard 60-cell modules on cold days and demands more careful Voc calculation when designing longer strings.

Inverter Power Euro eff. MPPT Weight Difference
Sofar Solar SOFAR 8KTLM-G3 8 kW 97.3% 3 17.5 kg You are here
MOD 8000TL3-X 8 kW 98.1% 2 14.0 kg +0.8 pp efficiency, -1 MPPT, 3.5 kg lighter
MOD 8KTL3-X2(Pro) 8 kW 98.1% 2 14.6 kg +0.8 pp efficiency, -1 MPPT, 2.9 kg lighter
SG8.0RT-20 8 kW 98.0% 2 17.0 kg +0.7 pp efficiency, -1 MPPT
GW8000-DT 8 kW 98.0% 2 24.0 kg +0.7 pp efficiency, -1 MPPT, 6.5 kg heavier
S6-GR3P-8K02-NV-ND 8 kW 97.9% 2 15.4 kg +0.6 pp efficiency, -1 MPPT, 2.1 kg lighter
SG6.0RT 8 kW 97.8% 2 18.0 kg +0.5 pp efficiency, -1 MPPT
Solis-3P8K-4G 8 kW 97.8% 2 18.0 kg +0.5 pp efficiency, -1 MPPT
SG8.0RT-P2 8 kW 97.7% 2 18.0 kg +0.4 pp efficiency, -1 MPPT

About the SOFAR 7KTLM-G3 series

6 answered

These answers cover the whole series. Where a figure differs, the specification above is this model's own.

What is the warranty period for the SOFAR 7KTLM-G3 inverter?
Sofar Solar provides a 12-year warranty on the SOFAR 7KTLM-G3 series inverters, calculated from the date of sale. This is one of the longest standard warranty periods in the grid-tied inverter category and offers meaningful investment protection for a substantial portion of the PV system's operational lifetime. To maintain warranty coverage, installation must be performed by a certified installer and the unit must be registered with the manufacturer.
Is the SOFAR 7KTLM-G3 suitable for roofs with multiple roof faces or partial shading?
Yes, the 7KTLM-G3 series features 3 independent MPPT trackers, allowing string arrays on different roof faces (e.g., south- and east-facing) to operate at their individual optimum points independently of one another. Under partial shading conditions, a loss of performance on one MPPT does not degrade the output of the remaining trackers, resulting in lower annual energy losses compared to single-MPPT inverters.
What is the peak efficiency of the SOFAR 7KTLM-G3 inverter, and what does it mean in practice?
The peak efficiency is 98.1%, and the high weighted European efficiency (EU efficiency) means the inverter maintains strong performance under the variable irradiance conditions typical of Central Europe - not only at solar noon on clear days. In practice, this translates into higher annual energy yields and a shorter payback period compared to devices with lower part-load efficiency.
What is the purpose of the smart I-V curve scanning function in the SOFAR 7KTLM-G3?
The smart I-V curve scanning function automatically sweeps the current-voltage characteristic of each PV string. This enables rapid detection of faulty modules, hot spots, soiling, or wiring errors without requiring an on-site service visit with a dedicated tester. The system owner or installer can trigger a scan remotely via the mobile app, significantly reducing diagnostic time and ongoing maintenance costs.
How does monitoring work on the SOFAR 7KTLM-G3, and is a separate communication gateway required?
The inverter supports communication via RS485, USB, and Bluetooth. A Wi-Fi module is typically included in the package or available as an optional add-on, enabling wireless internet connectivity and real-time data visibility in the Sofar Solar mobile app. For most residential installations, a smartphone and a standard Wi-Fi router are sufficient - no separate communication gateway needs to be purchased.
Can the SOFAR 7KTLM-G3 handle frost and harsh weather conditions?
Yes, the inverter operates across a temperature range of -30°C to +60°C, making it fully suited to winter conditions in continental climates. Its IP65-rated enclosure is dust-tight and protected against water jets, allowing installation both indoors (garage, utility room) and outdoors. Cooling is achieved through natural convection with no cooling fan, eliminating operational noise and removing a potential point of mechanical failure.
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