Inverters are quieter and easier to use than generators.

SINCE inverters first appeared in Myanmar in 1997 their use has skyrocketed.

Inverters are used to convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), which stores energy to use when electricity is not accessible from its main source.

They are used in conjunction with a battery, which is charged when the electricity is on, and which supplies power when the electricity is off.

Many people prefer inverters to generators because they do not make noise and are easy to operate.

The first inverters available in Myanmar were made in China, but in 2001 domestically made models appeared on the market.

“We started manufacturing inverters in 2001, and in 2002 and 2003 more people started using them in Myanmar,” said Ko Myo Thant Htun from Nibban Electric and Electronics, which produces Baho inverters.

Baho inverters are available in three capacities: 300 voltage amperes (VA) for K16,500; 500 VA for K35,000; and 1000 VA for K42,000, he said.

Generally, a 500 VA inverter with a battery costs about K90,000. It will supply enough energy to power the lights and television.

Industry sources hope that sales of inverters will continue to boom in the future but admit that upon the completion of several government hydroelectric projects they are likely to drop.