Hoymiles’ HiFlow Pro plug-in microinverter has been named as one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2026, acknowledging the company’s innovation in making solar power more accessible to North American households.
Plug-in solar offers renters and apartment dwellers an alternative to conventional rooftop solar, allowing them to generate electricity using panels installed in spaces such as balconies, patios and backyards.
Hoymiles has been developing solutions for this market for several years. Its microinverters were already being used in balcony solar applications in 2022, followed by the launch of its first balcony solar and storage product in 2023.
HiFlow Pro, released in the US in July, is designed specifically for the emerging US plug-in solar market. Unlike conventional residential microinverters that are used for professionally installed rooftop arrays, the HiFlow Pro LV series delivers nominal 120 V AC output for the US residential market. Its compact, single-module design supports five power ratings from 360 W to 500 W, giving users flexibility to configure their setups around available space and energy needs, with up to four microinverters supported in a setup.
HiFlow Pro features advanced MPPT technology for optimized module-level performance, a low 22 V startup voltage to capture more sunlight throughout the day, and up to 95.5% peak efficiency for greater energy harvest. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity simplify system monitoring through the S-Miles Home App on the phone, while its modular architecture gives users flexibility to adapt their setups to available space and energy needs.
HiFlow Pro is the first plug-in microinverter in the US to achieve compliance with UL 3700, its safety features including UAIOP rapid shutdown, anti-islanding protection and output current limiting. The microinverter is designed for GFCI-protected receptacles and features a dedicated PIPV plug with a proprietary design to prevent connection with standard household plugs and receptacles.
Sean Wang, Hoymiles Sales Director for North America, commented: “Being recognized by TIME highlights the potential of plug-in solar to make renewable energy more accessible. With HiFlow Pro, we are combining our microinverter expertise with a modular design and dedicated safety features to offer a flexible option for residential solar applications.”
