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Sungrow SG285HX

Sungrow SG285HX

285 kW Grid-tie Three-phase
Compare with closest alternative Datasheet PDF
Rated AC (kW)
285.00
Strong · top 19%
Euro eff. (%)
98.8
Strong · top 21%
MPPT
12
Strong · top 14%
Max DC (V)
1500
Strong · top 24%
Weight (kg)
116.0
Strong · top 24%
Warranty (yrs)
-
Not published

The Sungrow SG285HX series are advanced grid-tie inverters designed for commercial-scale projects and PV farms. These industrial-grade inverters prioritize stable operation and high energy yield. A key feature is the multi-MPPT technology, utilizing 12 independent trackers. This simplifies the design of fields with different orientations and minimizes losses due to partial shading or uneven soiling. In practice, this translates to better performance under varying conditions and reliable annual output.

High European efficiency ensures excellent performance not only at peak points but also under typical operating conditions in Poland, effectively supporting energy production. The SG285HX offers diagnostic and O&M support functions, enabling rapid identification of DC-side issues and minimizing downtime. Remote monitoring and communication (e.g., via RS485, Bluetooth, or PLC, depending on configuration) facilitate integration with monitoring systems. This series is tailored for investors seeking safety and grid compliance, along with predictable operation in high-power installations.

Ranking

95 inverters from 100 to 500 kW
Metric This inverter Median Position in class Rank in class
European efficiency 98.8% 98.6% Strong · top 21% 5
MPPT trackers 12 10 Strong · top 14% 3
Max DC input voltage 1500 V 1100 V Strong · top 24% 1
Weight per kW 0.4 0.6 Strong · top 24% 23
Warranty - 5 yrs Not published -
Colour key Strong - top 25% Typical - middle 50% Weak - bottom 25%

Specifications

Open datasheet PDF
Rated AC power 285 kW Maximum output; no continuous rating published
Max apparent power 285.00 kVA
Phases Three-phase
Nominal AC voltage 800 V 640 V – 920 V
Max AC current 206.0 A
Grid frequency 50 Hz Range 45 Hz – 55 Hz (50 Hz system); 55 Hz – 65 Hz (60 Hz system)
Power factor >0.99 @ nominal / adjustable 0.8 leading – 0.8 lagging
Harmonic distortion (THD) 3.0 %
Max DC voltage 1500 V Caps the string length
MPPT voltage range 500 to 1500 V
Start-up voltage 550 V
MPPT trackers 12 2 strings each
Max input current per MPPT 40.0 A Must exceed the panel's Imp
Max short-circuit current per MPPT 60.0 A Must exceed the panel's Isc
European efficiency 98.8 % Weighted across part loads
Max efficiency 99.0 % Best single operating point
Dimensions 870 × 1136 × 361 mm Height × width × depth
Weight 116.0 kg 0.4 kg per kW
Enclosure IP66
Cooling forced-air
Operating temperature -30 to 60 °C
Max humidity 100 %
Max altitude 4000 m
Interfaces BluetoothDisplay
Protocols RS485PLCBluetooth (via APP)
Protection DC switchSurge protection
Certifications IEC 62109IEC 61727IEC 62116IEC 60068IEC 61683VDE-AR-N 4110:2018VDE-AR-N 4120:2018EN 50549-2UNE 206007-1:2013P.O.12.3

Pros and cons

5 positive · 1 caution
What owners get
12 Independent MPPT Trackers

The inverter features 12 MPPT circuits supporting up to 20 A per string, enabling flexible PV plant design with varying roof orientations or multiple array sections. This directly limits losses under partial shading or uneven soiling - particularly critical in installations exceeding 1 MWp.

Peak Efficiency 99.02% (EU ~98.7%)

The datasheet-confirmed value of 99.02% places the SG285HX among the top-tier string inverters in the 250-350 kW class. The European efficiency of ~98.7% (comparable to the SG320HX from the same family) exceeds the typical segment median of ~98.3-98.5%, translating into measurably higher annual energy yield under Polish irradiance conditions.

#1 Bankability per BNEF 2025

Sungrow ranked first in the BloombergNEF Inverter Bankability Survey 2025 for the sixth consecutive year, achieving 100% recognition among respondents. This rating directly facilitates non-recourse financing for commercial and utility-scale PV projects, as lenders treat it as confirmation of the manufacturer's long-term financial stability.

Weak-Grid Operation (SCR ≥ 1.15)

The inverter maintains stable operation at a short-circuit ratio as low as SCR ≥ 1.15, with a reactive power response time of <30 ms. This is a key parameter for Polish renewable energy plants in locations with underdeveloped grid infrastructure, where TSO requirements for Q/U voltage regulation are becoming increasingly stringent.

Smart IV Curve Diagnosis + PLC + Q at Night

The built-in IV curve diagnosis enables remote identification of faulty strings or modules without additional sensor wiring. PLC communication eliminates the need for dedicated RS485 cable runs in the field, while the Q at Night function supplies reactive power to the grid after sunset - reducing O&M costs and potentially lowering reactive power penalty charges.

Trade-offs
Unit Weight 116 kg - Logistics Requirements

At 116 kg and dimensions of 1136 × 361 × 1008 mm, the inverter requires a pallet truck or light lifting equipment during installation, increasing installation time and placing greater demands on the installation crew. This applies to the entire >250 kW device class; however, the project owner must account for this factor in the construction schedule.

Alternatives

All Sungrow inverters
Inverter Power Euro eff. MPPT Weight Difference
Sungrow SG285HX 285 kW 98.8% 12 116.0 kg You are here
SUN2000-330KTL-H2 275 kW 98.8% 6 112.0 kg -10.0 kW, -6 MPPT, 4.0 kg lighter
SolarEdge TerraMax Inverter SE300K 297 kW 98.8% - 175.0 kg +12.0 kW, 59.0 kg heavier
SUN2000-330KTL-H1 300 kW 98.8% 6 112.0 kg +15.0 kW, -6 MPPT, 4.0 kg lighter
SUN2000-300KTL-H0 300 kW - 6 112.0 kg +15.0 kW, -6 MPPT, 4.0 kg lighter
Solis-255K-EHV-5G-PLUS 255 kW 98.8% 12 113.0 kg -30.0 kW, 3.0 kg lighter
SOFAR 255KTL-HV 255 kW 98.7% 12 99.0 kg -30.0 kW, 17.0 kg lighter
MAX 253KTL3-X HV 253 kW 98.5% - 109.0 kg -32.0 kW, 7.0 kg lighter
SOFAR 250KTLX0 250 kW 98.8% - 111.0 kg -35.0 kW, 5.0 kg lighter

About the SG285HX series

6 answered

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

How many MPPT trackers does the Sungrow SG285HX inverter have, and why does it need as many as 12?
The SG285HX series is equipped with 12 independent MPPT trackers. This allows strings from different orientations (south, east, west) or with different tilt angles to be connected without mutual performance interference. In practice, this minimizes losses caused by partial shading or soiling of modules - each string operates at its own optimal power point independently of the others.
Is the Sungrow SG285HX inverter suitable for the Polish climate?
Yes. The SG285HX features a high European efficiency rating, which accounts for the variable irradiance conditions typical of Poland - low sun angles, overcast skies, and transitional seasons. The inverter operates without derating up to an ambient temperature of 45°C and carries an IP65 protection rating, ensuring resistance to rain, moisture, and dust in outdoor installations.
What is the standard warranty on the Sungrow SG285HX inverter?
Sungrow provides a standard 5-year warranty on the SG285HX series, with options to extend coverage to 10 or even 20 years depending on the market and purchase conditions. The company is recognized as a Tier 1 manufacturer, indicating a strong financial position and reliable service availability. It is advisable to confirm the exact warranty terms with your local distributor before purchase.
How does the SG285HX simplify servicing of large-scale PV plants?
The inverter offers a Smart IV Curve Diagnosis function that automatically analyzes the current-voltage characteristics of strings, helping to locate faulty modules or DC cables without manual measurements. Communication via RS485, Bluetooth, or PLC enables remote monitoring and integration with SCADA platforms. This reduces downtime and lowers operations and maintenance (O&M) costs at large-scale installations.
Which PV modules is the Sungrow SG285HX compatible with?
The SG285HX supports modules rated at 500 Wp and above, accepting up to 20 A per string. It operates on a 1500 V DC system, enabling longer string designs and reducing cabling costs. The inverter is compatible with the mainstream cell technologies used in bifacial and half-cut modules that are widely deployed in today's utility-scale PV plants.
Is the Sungrow SG285HX suitable for installations on a weak grid?
Yes. The SG285HX supports a Short-Circuit Ratio (SCR) as low as 1.16, enabling stable operation even with weak grid infrastructure. The Q at Night function allows the inverter to supply reactive power to the grid after sunset, supporting grid voltage stability and potentially helping to avoid additional reactive power compensation charges.
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