String optimizer from Ampt has double number of modules per string

September 30, 2014
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

Ampt has introduced a new string optimizer, a DC power converter with multiple maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and output voltage and current limits to optimize system design and maximize performance of large-scale PV systems. 

Problem

In an effort to lower the cost of electrical components, large-scale PV developers and EPCs are looking to next generation system designs. A string optimizer, allows developers to deploy PV power plants with the cost saving benefits of a 2000 volt system using only 1000 volt components while meeting all 1000 volt code requirements. 

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

Solution

Ampt String Optimizers are deployed in large-scale PV systems to lower cost and increase performance. This optimized system has twice the number of modules per string and higher resolution MPP tracking than conventional systems without Ampt. More modules per string decreases the number of combiners by 50% and reduces the amount of cabling which results in significant electrical balance of system savings. Putting MPPT on each string increases lifetime system production. Systems optimized with Ampt use inverters configured to operate in ‘Ampt Mode’. These inverters have a higher rated output power and operating efficiency compared to the same inverter operating in standard mode. Delivering more power per inverter reduces the overall cost per watt.

Applications

PV power plants. 

Platform

Systems optimized with Ampt use inverters configured to operate in Ampt Mode. These inverters have a higher rated output power compared to the same inverter operating in standard mode. Delivering more power per inverter reduces the overall cost per watt. Compatible with any inverter the system has a high (99.1%/99.0% CEC/Euro) efficiency.

Availability

July 2014 onwards. 

Read Next

December 1, 2025
Victoria's first state-owned solar-plus-storage project has reached a major construction milestone, with the installation of all 212,296 PV modules at the SEC Renewable Energy Park in Horsham, Australia.
December 1, 2025
Multinational solar manufacturer Canadian Solar will assume direct control of its US solar PV and energy storage manufacturing operations, in a strategic move which may reduce its supply chain risks.
December 1, 2025
Swedish thin-film solar manufacturer Midsummer will ship up to 200MW worth of manufacturing equipment to a planned thin-film solar PV manufacturing facility in Colombia.
December 1, 2025
Independent power producer (IPP) Grenergy has agreed to sell an 88MW solar PV portfolio of projects in Colombia.
December 1, 2025
The Indian Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has requested comments on the proposal to increase the solar PV module efficiency of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM).
Premium
December 1, 2025
Steven Xuereb of Kiwa PI Berlin discusses the PV industry’s progress in addressing performance and reliability concerns around TOPCon technology.

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
December 2, 2025
Málaga, Spain
Upcoming Webinars
December 4, 2025
2pm GMT / 3pm CET
Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK
Solar Media Events
March 24, 2026
Dallas, Texas
Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy