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

April 9, 2026
South Australia has opened applications for renewable energy feasibility licences across more than 11,000 square kilometres of land with some of the state's highest coincident wind and solar resources.
April 9, 2026
Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have developed the world's first comprehensive map of ultraviolet (UV) radiation for solar modules.
April 8, 2026
kWh Analytics subsidiary, Solar Energy Insurance Services, has launched a data-sharing initiative that rewards renewable energy assets for efforts in extreme weather mitigation.
Premium
April 8, 2026
PV Tech Premium examines the recent challenges facing California's rooftop solar industry and what lies ahead for VPPs and balcony solar.
April 8, 2026
Societe Generale and the EIB have signed a US$178.9 million financing agreement for the construction of a 137MW solar PV project in Italy.
April 8, 2026
Scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE claim to have reduced the silver content of TOPCon solar cells tenfold.

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA
Solar Media Events
October 13, 2026
San Francisco Bay Area, USA
Solar Media Events
November 3, 2026
Málaga, Spain
Solar Media Events
November 24, 2026
Warsaw, Poland