SolarEdge offers new power optimizers and unique string monitoring combiner box

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

SolarEdge Technologies is presenting its next generation of module power optimizers and a unique string monitoring combiner box with ground fault detection and interruption (GFDI) per string, at Intersolar Europe 2011, in Hall B4, Booth 310. Smart modules optimized by SolarEdge will be presented at the show by some of the world’s leading module manufacturers. The company will also present its extended line of single-phase and three-phase solar inverters.

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

Increasingly, the focus on conventional PV inverter performance and reliability is due to the need to offer the maximum IRR on projects, regardless of size. Module power optimizers are becoming increasingly sophisticated to offer improved efficiencies and higher reliability. The next phase in technology development will be the full integration to create a ‘smart module’ concept to further reduce BOS.

Solution

SolarEdge’s new generation of power optimizers boasts record efficiency of 99.5% (98.8% EU weighted efficiency). The power optimizers are claimed to enable production of up to 25% more energy and faster return on investment in residential, commercial and large-scale PV systems, through module-level MPPT and monitoring. With a new, highly efficient ASIC chipset and 32% lower part count, the new power optimizers are not only more efficient but are also 40% smaller in size. Selection of cutting-edge components and improved dynamic control are combined with an enhanced per-module MPPT algorithm that dynamically tracks the global maximum operating point for both modules and inverter, enabling higher power optimizer efficiency and improved system performance, both with and without mismatch or partial shading conditions. The SolarEdge string monitoring combiner box with internal disconnect per string and automatic ground fault detection and interruption (GFDI) provides improved safety, performance monitoring and control for commercial and large-scale PV sites. Ground leaking strings are automatically alerted and isolated through up to 64 individual string disconnects, controlled and monitored locally and remotely, ensuring safety without interference to the performance of other strings or of the solar inverter.

Applications

Various models will support residential, commercial and large-scale installations.

Platform

Warranted for 25 years, the new power optimizers are enhanced with SolarEdge’s ‘SafeDC’ features: automatic electric arc detection and termination, and automatic module shutdown in case of inverter or grid shutdown. The SolarEdge inverters (98% maximum efficiency) are specifically designed to work with power optimizers, which maintain a fixed string-voltage to enable optimal inversion at all times. The range of SolarEdge PV inverters is now extended to include 3kW, 3.5kW, 4kW, 5kW and 6kW single phase inverters, and 7kW, 8kW, 9kW, 10kW and 12.5kW three phase inverters.

Availability

June 2011 onwards.
 

Read Next

September 9, 2025
Iberdrola has signed a 77MW power purchase agreement (PPA) with Italian grocery retail group Selex Gruppo Commerciale.
September 9, 2025
Nautilus and Summit Ridge Energy secured major financing deals to expand community solar projects across multiple US states.
September 9, 2025
The US is forecast to reach between US$55-60 billion in clean energy tax credit monetisation in 2025, according to a report from clean energy financing technology platform Crux.
September 9, 2025
The average price of solar modules sold in Europe fell marginally between July and August, while buyers’ confidence remained steady.
September 9, 2025
The US Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) has released a policy blueprint which it claims would “strengthen the reliability of America’s electric grid with solar and storage technologies.”
September 9, 2025
US solar tracker manufacturer Nextracker has acquired Origami Solar, a steel frame technology-focused company, for approximately US$53 million. 

Subscribe to Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
September 16, 2025
Athens, Greece
Solar Media Events
September 30, 2025
Seattle, USA
Solar Media Events
October 1, 2025
London, UK
Solar Media Events
October 2, 2025
London,UK
Solar Media Events
October 7, 2025
Manila, Philippines