HS Code Subheading

Electric generators; (excluding generating sets), photovoltaic AC generators (alternators)

8501.80 Subheading
Section XVI — Machinery and mechanical appliances; electrical equipment; parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories of such articles

About HS Code 850180

This HS code specifically identifies photovoltaic (PV) Alternating Current (AC) generators, also known as alternators, excluding generating sets. While most PV systems generate DC and then convert to AC via inverters, this category covers PV systems that directly produce AC or integrate the AC conversion so closely that the entire unit functions as an AC generator. This often includes solar panels with integrated micro-inverters, where the panel and inverter are considered a single AC generating unit. Importers and exporters are typically specialized solar equipment manufacturers, renewable energy integrators, and distributors focusing on simplified AC solar solutions. Key aspects include ease of installation, module-level power optimization, and direct grid compatibility, simplifying system design for certain applications.

Products Under This Code

Integrated PV AC modules, micro-inverter equipped solar panels, AC solar panels, specialized PV AC alternators, direct AC output solar units

Real World Examples

Enphase IQ Series Microinverters integrated with panels (when marketed as a single AC generating unit), AC Solar Modules (e.g., from SunPower, LG, if they market them as direct AC generators)

Common Misclassification

Often confused with 85017x (PV DC generators) or 850440 (inverters) because most PV systems are DC with separate inverters. This code implies a direct AC output from the PV generator itself, not just a DC generator paired with an inverter.

Products Classified Under 8501.80

Solar inverterMicro inverter

Related Codes

8501.10 Electric motors; of an output not exceeding 37.5W 8501.20 Electric motors; universal AC/DC of an output exceeding 37.5W 8501.31 Electric motors and generators; DC, of an output not exceeding 750W 8501.32 Electric motors and generators; DC, of an output exceeding 750W but not exceeding 75kW 8501.33 Electric motors and generators; DC, of an output exceeding 75kW but not exceeding 375kW 8501.34 Electric motors and generators; DC, of an output exceeding 375kW 8501.40 Electric motors; AC motors, single-phase 8501.51 Electric motors; AC motors, multi-phase, of an output not exceeding 750W 8501.52 Electric motors; AC motors, multi-phase, of an output exceeding 750W but not exceeding 75kW 8501.53 Electric motors; AC motors, multi-phase, of an output exceeding 75kW

Industry

This code belongs to the Electronics & Electrical Equipment industry.

Trade Overview

Countries with advanced solar technology like Germany, USA, and China are key players in developing and trading these specialized components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 850180?

HS code 850180 covers: Electric generators; (excluding generating sets), photovoltaic AC generators (alternators). This HS code specifically identifies photovoltaic (PV) Alternating Current (AC) generators, also known as alternators, excluding generating sets. While most PV systems generate DC and then convert to AC via inverters, this category covers PV systems that directly produce AC or integrate the AC conversion so closely that the entire unit functions as an AC generator. This often includes solar panels with integrated micro-inverters, where the panel and inverter are considered a single AC generating unit. Importers and exporters are typically specialized solar equipment manufacturers, renewable energy integrators, and distributors focusing on simplified AC solar solutions. Key aspects include ease of installation, module-level power optimization, and direct grid compatibility, simplifying system design for certain applications.

What products fall under HS code 850180?

Integrated PV AC modules, micro-inverter equipped solar panels, AC solar panels, specialized PV AC alternators, direct AC output solar units

What are common misclassifications for HS code 850180?

Often confused with 85017x (PV DC generators) or 850440 (inverters) because most PV systems are DC with separate inverters. This code implies a direct AC output from the PV generator itself, not just a DC generator paired with an inverter.

How is HS code 850180 structured?

HS code 850180 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (85) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (01) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (80) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.