Hoymiles HiFlow Pro Named to TIME's Best Inventions

The plug-in microinverter, released in the US in July, earned a spot on TIME's Best Inventions of 2026 list.

Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Solar panel leaning against an apartment balcony railing with a compact gray microinverter mounted at its back edge under overcast daylight. — Hoymiles' HiFlow Pro plug-in microinverter, released in the U.S. in July, was named to TIME's Best Inventions of 2026 list. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you install a plug-in solar system on your balcony or patio?

Hoymiles' HiFlow Pro, a plug-in microinverter, was named to TIME's Best Inventions of 2026 list after its US release in July. The device lets renters and apartment dwellers generate electricity from panels on balconies, patios, and backyards.

Why it matters

Plug-in solar lowers the barrier to home solar generation for people who cannot install rooftop systems. Recognition from TIME highlights growing interest in this category for US residential users.

The HiFlow Pro LV series delivers nominal 120 V AC output with a 22 V low startup voltage and 95.5% peak efficiency across five power ratings from 360 W to 500 W. Up to four units can be supported in one setup.

The players

Hoymiles

Hoymiles is a Chinese solar microinverter manufacturer that has expanded into residential balcony solar and storage products for North American markets.

TIME

TIME is a long-established American news and culture magazine that publishes an annual Best Inventions list recognizing notable new products and technologies.

The details

HiFlow Pro uses MPPT technology for module-level performance optimization and connects via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to the S-Miles Home App for system monitoring. It is described as the first plug-in microinverter in the US to achieve compliance with UL 3700.

2022: Hoymiles microinverters were used in balcony solar applications.
2023: Hoymiles launched its first balcony solar and storage product.
July 2026: HiFlow Pro was released in the US.
2026: HiFlow Pro was named to TIME's Best Inventions list.

Roadmap

Plug-in solar is an emerging segment of residential solar that moves beyond rooftop installations toward modular, renter-accessible systems. HiFlow Pro's UL 3700 compliance marks an early certification milestone for this category in the United States.

Renters and apartment dwellers may be able to add solar generation from a balcony, patio, or backyard without a rooftop installation. The 120 V AC output is designed for the US residential market, though the source does not provide installed cost or utility interconnection details.

The takeaway

Plug-in solar is becoming a practical option for people who cannot install traditional rooftop panels. Readers considering it should check local rules and product certification details before purchasing.