ABB’s 630kW central inverter series provides flexibility for integrators

May 28, 2012
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

The new 630kW PVS800 central inverter from ABB has a claimed high total efficiency with one of the most compact designs on the market. The operating temperature range is extended and a new modular DC input design provides flexibility for integrators.

Problem

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

A 45% higher power density compared to earlier ABB central inverters makes this one of the most compact inverters on the market by footprint and volume per kW. This reduces installation and container space and lowers transportation costs.

Solution

The high total efficiency in the new ABB central inverter is a result of systematic and continuous R&D efforts. It has a 98.6% maximum efficiency with an improved efficiency at partial loads to provide a Euro efficiency of 98.4%. This, together with a very low auxiliary power consumption of only 600 watts at nominal power, results in an inverter with a very high total efficiency. The central inverter offers a wider operational temperature range, up to 45°C at nominal power, and up to 55°C with power derating. This makes the product suitable for hot temperature conditions. At lower temperatures, the ABB central inverter provides up to 10% power overloading capability, up to a maximum power output of 700 kW at 25°C.

Applications

The ABB central inverter series, rated from 100 to 630 kW, is designed for multi-megawatt photovoltaic (PV) power plants as well as large and medium sized commercial and industrial PV installations.

Platform

A newly designed DC input section provides system integrators with a modular and flexible approach. This is especially helpful when considering the DC cable type and the number of junction boxes needed. For example, the 630 kW ABB central inverter is available with eight 250 A inputs, suitable for 16 string junction boxes. Optionally, the inverter is also available with four 400 A or twelve 160 A inputs. With the ABB central inverter’s certificates and advanced and flexible grid support functions, it is possible to meet all applicable network connection requirements, regardless of where the project is located.

Availability

March 2012 onwards. 

Read Next

December 29, 2025
Mexico has awarded 3.3GW of renewable energy capacity, of which solar PV will account for 2.6GW of capacity.
Premium
December 29, 2025
PV Tech spoke with accountancy firm Baker Tilly about the new safe harbour and 'start of construction' rules for US solar projects.
December 29, 2025
The Glenfarne Group has acquired a portfolio of solar PV and co-located BESS assets in Chile from Metlen Energy & Metals.
December 29, 2025
Saatvik Green Energy has successfully commissioned and operationalised a 2GW EPE film manufacturing facility at its Ambala plant in Haryana.
December 29, 2025
PV Tech spoke to Daniel Parsons about BayWa r.e.'s European dealmaking in 2025 and the role of co-located renewable energy plus BESS.
December 24, 2025
The PV Review, 2025: A look back over a turbulent year in US solar policy changes, from the 'Big, Beautiful Bill' to tariff challenges.

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK
Solar Media Events
March 24, 2026
Dallas, Texas
Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA
Solar Media Events
November 24, 2026
Warsaw, Poland