Integrating renewable and distributed energy resources, such as photovoltaics (PV) and energy storage devices, into the electric distribution system requires advanced power electronics, or smart inverters, that can provide grid services such as voltage and frequency. . Integrating renewable and distributed energy resources, such as photovoltaics (PV) and energy storage devices, into the electric distribution system requires advanced power electronics, or smart inverters, that can provide grid services such as voltage and frequency. . An inverter is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a solar energy system. It's a device that converts direct current (DC) electricity, which is what a solar panel generates, to alternating current (AC) electricity, which the electrical grid uses. In DC, electricity is maintained at. . NLR's advanced power electronics and smart inverter research supports the integration of distributed energy resources on the U. electricity grid. Our mission is to create a new way of life by integrating clean energy into our daily lives and achieving perfect harmony between man and nature. Because of this, you can also think of a solar inverter as a solar “converter. ” Once transformed to AC, solar. .