A dual mode direct current-to-alternating current (DC-AC) micro-inverter is capable of operating either with or without connection to an active external AC power source. The dual mode DC-AC micro-inverter may operate in “current control mode” when connection to the active AC power source is present and may operate in “voltage control mode” when connection to the active external AC source is absent. Processes for operating an array of these micro-inverters are disclosed. The dual mode operation capability enables the micro-inverter(s) to function both in the grid connected mode (i.e., current control mode) as well as off-grid mode (i.e., voltage control mode). The system is configured to sense the presence or absence of grid power and automatically select the appropriate mode of operation. For the voltage control mode of operation, a process may include designating a master from the array of micro-inverters in order to establish the voltage and frequency references.