Product classification

HS code for Solar inverter: 8501.80

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

Classification of solar inverter under HS 8501.80

Solar inverters are classified under HS code 8501.80, which specifically covers photovoltaic AC generators. This classification is determined by the primary function of the device: converting direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) for use in electrical grids or local circuits. Under the Harmonized System 2022 updates, these devices are recognized as "photovoltaic AC generators" rather than simple static converters when they are integrated units designed for solar applications. The classification depends on the inverter's ability to function as a power source within a photovoltaic system, effectively acting as the alternator for the solar array. This code is essential for customs declarations to ensure the correct application of tariffs and trade statistics related to renewable energy infrastructure. By categorizing them as generators, the WCO distinguishes them from general-purpose power converters, reflecting their specialized role in the green energy sector.

Covers
  • Grid-tie solar inverters
  • Off-grid solar inverters
  • Hybrid solar inverters
  • Micro-inverters for individual panels
  • String inverters for commercial arrays
Also under 8501.80

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)

Codes often confused with 8501.80

Common mistake. Solar inverters are frequently misclassified under HS code 8504.40, which covers static converters like rectifiers and general power adapters. While a solar inverter does perform static conversion, the 2022 HS nomenclature introduced 8501.80 to specifically capture photovoltaic AC generators. Using 8504.40 may lead to incorrect duty assessments or delays in customs processing where specific renewable energy incentives apply.

8504.40Electrical static converters

Top exporters and importers of HS 850180 (the code used for solar inverter), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 850180 (the code used for solar inverter) in UN Comtrade data was Vietnam, with about 57% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Chile, with 60% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Figures cover everything classified under HS 850180, not only solar inverter.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 Vietnam* ~$276M
  2. 2 China $120M
  3. 3 France $21M

World total: $483M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 Chile $654M
  2. 2 South Africa $174M
  3. 3 Guatemala $31M

World total: $1.1B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

How these figures are built

109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).

Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.

Brazil NCM code for solar inverter

Brazil classifies solar inverter under NCM 8501.80.00: HS 8501.80 with 00 added.

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about solar inverter

What is the HS code for Solar inverter?

The HS code for Solar inverter is 850180 (Electric generators; (excluding generating sets), photovoltaic AC generators (alternators)). The correct HS code for a solar inverter (photovoltaic AC generator) is 8501.80.

How do I classify Solar inverter for customs?

Solar inverter is classified under HS code 850180 — Electric generators; (excluding generating sets), photovoltaic AC generators (alternators). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

What is the difference between HS 8504 and 8501 for inverters?

HS 8504.40 is for general static converters, whereas 8501.80 is specifically for inverters that function as AC generators within a photovoltaic system.

Which countries are the top exporters of solar inverter (HS 850180)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 850180 (the code used for solar inverter) in UN Comtrade data were Vietnam (about $276M, 57% of world exports), China ($120M) and France ($21M). World exports came to about $483M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Which countries are the top importers of solar inverter (HS 850180)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 850180 (the code used for solar inverter) in UN Comtrade data were Chile ($654M, 60% of world imports), South Africa ($174M) and Guatemala ($31M). World imports came to about $1.1B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Is the HS code for Solar inverter the same in all countries?

The base HS code 850180 for Solar inverter is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.

What is the NCM code for solar inverter in Brazil?

In Brazil, solar inverter (HS 850180) is classified under NCM 8501.80.00.