--- title: "Sungrow SG17RT-20 Grid-tie Inverter: Specs & Datasheet | ComparePV" description: "Sungrow SG17RT-20 17 kW grid-tie inverter. Specs: 98.2% European efficiency, 2 MPPT, 1100 V max DC input, 20.0 kg." source: "https://comparepv.com/inverter/sungrow-sg17rt-20" updated: 2026-01-16 --- # Sungrow SG17RT-20 ## Identity - **Manufacturer:** Sungrow - **Model:** SG17RT-20 - **Series:** SGRT-20 - **Rated AC power:** 17 kW - **Type:** Grid-tie - **Phases:** Three-phase ## How it compares Compared against 227 inverters from 12 to 30 kW. Ranks are within that class. | Measure | This inverter | Class median | Standing | Rank in class | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | European efficiency | 98.2% | 98.0% | Typical | 36 | | MPPT trackers | 2 | 2 | Typical | 53 | | Max DC input voltage | 1100 V | 1000 V | Strong - top 21% | 1 | | Weight per kW | 1.2 | 1.6 | Strong - top 22% | 50 | | Warranty | - | 5 yrs | | | ## Specification ### AC output - **Rated AC power:** 17 kW - **Max apparent power:** 18.70 kVA - **Phases:** Three-phase - **Nominal AC voltage:** 400 V - **Max AC current:** 28.3 A - **Grid frequency:** 50 Hz - **Power factor:** 0.8 leading … 0.8 lagging (adjustable); >0.99 at full power - **Harmonic distortion (THD):** 3.0 % ### PV input - **Max DC voltage:** 1100 V - **MPPT voltage range:** 160 to 1000 V - **Start-up voltage:** 180 V - **MPPT trackers:** 2 - **Max input current per MPPT:** 25.0 A - **Max short-circuit current per MPPT:** 32.0 A ### Efficiency - **European efficiency:** 98.2 % - **Max efficiency:** 98.6 % ### Physical - **Dimensions:** 480 × 370 × 195 mm - **Weight:** 20.0 kg - **Enclosure:** IP65 - **Cooling:** forced-air - **Operating temperature:** -25 to 60 °C - **Max humidity:** 100 % - **Max altitude:** 4000 m ### Connectivity and protection - **Protocols:** 4G - **Protection:** DC switch, Surge protection ### Warranty and certificates - **Certifications:** IEC62109-1/-2, EN61000-6-1, EN61000-6-2, EN61000-6-3, EN61000-6-4, NB/T32004-2018 ### Pros - **High European Efficiency of 98.1%** - The SG20RT achieves a European efficiency (EU-η) of 98.1% with a peak efficiency of 98.5%, placing the series among the top performers in the three-phase 20 kW string inverter segment. In Polish climate conditions-characterized by variable cloud cover and frequent partial-load operation-this translates into meaningfully higher annual energy yields compared to inverters rated at EU-η 97.0-97.5%. - **Dual MPPT with Wide Input Voltage Range** - Two independent MPPT channels allow the inverter to serve two roof sections with different orientations or shading profiles without cross-string mismatch losses. The wide MPPT input voltage range enables flexible PV string design and earlier morning production start at low irradiance levels. - **Built-in AFCI and Type II Surge Protection** - A factory-integrated Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) and both DC- and AC-side Type II surge protection are standard across the series. In competing models from 2021-2023 (e.g., Fronius Symo), AFCI was either a paid option or unavailable, making this inclusion a meaningful cost reducer and simplifying compliance with insurance requirements. - **Smart IV Scan and iSolarCloud Monitoring** - The I-V curve scan feature enables remote diagnosis of module degradation and shading without an on-site service visit. The iSolarCloud platform (Wi-Fi/Ethernet) provides real-time production monitoring, fault alerts, and over-the-air firmware updates. - **Compact IP65 Enclosure, 18 kg** - At 18 kg for a 20 kW unit (0.9 kg/kW), the specific weight outperforms the 2021 segment average of approximately 1.1-1.3 kg/kW for competing models. The IP65 protection rating permits outdoor mounting without an additional enclosure, reducing overall installation cost. ### Cons - **Series Discontinued (2023)** - Production was discontinued in 2023 after only approximately two years on the market (launched 2021). Availability of new units and genuine spare parts is limited; for systems designed for a 25-30 year service life, this creates a risk of extended repair lead times and the need to source replacement components outside Sungrow's official distribution channel. ## About this series The Sungrow SGRT-20 series are three-phase grid-tie inverters designed for commercial and larger residential systems, where reliability in grid operation is crucial, and high operational efficiency is expected. A standout feature is the **dual MPPT** - two independent power tracking channels simplify energy utilization even with different roof orientations or partial shading, minimizing losses without complicating the design. In practice, this translates to excellent **European efficiency**, meaning truly high performance under typical operating conditions in Poland (variable sunlight and temperatures), resulting in greater annual energy yields. The series supports smart diagnostic functions (including IV curve scanning) and remote updates, reducing maintenance time and response periods. Monitoring is handled via iSolarCloud - through **Wi-Fi or Ethernet** (depending on configuration), with production monitoring and alarm visualization in the app. Built-in overvoltage protection and safety features for PV installations facilitate compliance with regulatory standards, while the standard warranty offers predictable costs throughout the system's lifecycle. ## Questions ### What is the warranty on the Sungrow SGRT-20 series inverters? The standard warranty for the Sungrow SGRT-20 series is 10 years, covering both parts and labor. As a Tier 1 manufacturer, Sungrow also offers the option to extend the warranty to up to 25 years, providing full cost predictability throughout the entire lifecycle of a commercial PV installation. ### Is the Sungrow SGRT-20 inverter suitable for rooftops with multiple roof plane orientations? Yes, the SGRT-20 series is equipped with dual MPPT - two independent maximum power point tracking channels. This allows modules facing different directions (e.g., south and west) or installed at different tilt angles to be connected without mutual performance losses. This is a significant advantage for dual-pitch or complex roof configurations. ### How can I monitor energy production from the Sungrow SGRT-20 inverter? Monitoring is carried out through the iSolarCloud platform, available as a mobile app and a web dashboard. The inverter connects to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. The app displays real-time generation data, historical yield records, active alarms, and diagnostic information. Remote firmware updates eliminate the need for a service visit for minor fixes. ### Is the Sungrow SGRT-20 series suitable for commercial installations and industrial-scale photovoltaics? Yes, the SGRT-20 series is a three-phase on-grid inverter designed for commercial installations and larger prosumer systems. It supports high-power modules, including bifacial panels, and its built-in surge protection and grid certifications simplify compliance with the grid connection requirements of distribution system operators. ### What is the European efficiency of the Sungrow SGRT-20 inverter and what does it mean in practice? The European efficiency of the SGRT-20 series is approximately 98.1%, which translates to very low conversion losses under typical Polish operating conditions - variable irradiance and temperature fluctuations. In practice, this results in higher annual energy yields compared to inverters with lower efficiency ratings, shortening the return on investment period. ### What is I-V curve scanning in the Sungrow SGRT-20 inverter and is it a useful feature? I-V curve scanning is an automated diagnostic routine during which the inverter measures the electrical characteristics of each string of modules. This enables the detection of faulty modules, soiling, wiring errors, or degradation without the need for manual measurements on the rooftop. For commercial installations, this saves significant time and service costs, as issues are identified remotely. ## Datasheet [Manufacturer datasheet (PDF)](https://comparepv.com/datasheets/inverters/DS-20210415-SG8-10-12-15-17-20RT-20-V11-CN-b3adcf4e142b.pdf) ## Alternatives | Inverter | Rated AC | Euro efficiency | MPPT | Weight | Difference | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Growatt MID 17KTL3-X](https://comparepv.com/inverter/growatt-mid-17ktl3-x) | 17 kW | 98.6% | 2 | 23.0 kg | +0.4 pp efficiency, 3.0 kg heavier | | [Huawei SUN2000-17KTL-M0](https://comparepv.com/inverter/huawei-sun2000-17ktl-m0) | 17 kW | 98.3% | 2 | 25.0 kg | 5.0 kg heavier | | [Huawei SUN2000-17KTL-M2](https://comparepv.com/inverter/huawei-sun2000-17ktl-m2) | 17 kW | 98.3% | 2 | 25.0 kg | 5.0 kg heavier | | [SOFAR 17KTLX-G3](https://comparepv.com/inverter/sofar-solar-sofar-17ktlx-g3) | 17 kW | 98.2% | 2 | 22.0 kg | 2.0 kg heavier | | [Sungrow SG17T-CN](https://comparepv.com/inverter/sungrow-sg17t-cn) | 17 kW | 98.1% | 2 | 21.0 kg | 1.0 kg heavier | | [Huawei SUN2000-17KTL-M5](https://comparepv.com/inverter/huawei-sun2000-17ktl-m5) | 17 kW | 98.1% | 2 | 21.0 kg | 1.0 kg heavier | | [SOFAR 17KTLX-G3P](https://comparepv.com/inverter/sofar-solar-sofar-17ktlx-g3p) | 17 kW | 98.1% | 2 | 20.0 kg | Similar on paper | | [Sungrow SG17RT](https://comparepv.com/inverter/sungrow-sg17rt) | 17 kW | 98.1% | 2 | 21.0 kg | 1.0 kg heavier | --- Source: https://comparepv.com/inverter/sungrow-sg17rt-20