Microinverters and DC optimizers, commonly referred to as module-level power electronics (MLPEs), increase the energy harvested by solar PV modules and reduce the levelized cost of electricity by converting or conditioning power at the module level. As a result, microinverters and DC optimizers are two of the most disruptive technologies in the solar PV sector today. According to a new report from Navigant Research, revenue from microinverters and DC optimizers will grow from $308 million in 2013 to more than $1.9 billion in 2020.
Enecsys second generation microinverter
“The module-level power electronics sector has grown from a niche market to mainstream, especially in the United States, where there is fierce competition in major solar PV markets like California,” says Dexter Gauntlett, senior research analyst with Navigant Research. “What’s more, a growing number of solar PV module manufacturers are now integrating microinverters and DC optimizers at their own production plants. At the same time, large power electronics companies and incumbent manufacturers are making strategic partnerships and acquisitions to take advantage of rapid growth in this market segment.”
The rapid acceleration in the deployment of solar PV systems has escalated the competition between MLPE manufacturers and incumbent inverter suppliers, according to the report. Instead of trying to fight microinverter manufacturers, larger technology suppliers, such as ABB, have joined the sector through acquisition. DC optimizer manufacturers, meanwhile, are growing rapidly and have partnered with module manufacturers to directly compete with microinverter companies in the residential segment and beyond — a significant trend that could shape the future of MLPEs and distributed solar.
The report, “Microinverters and DC Optimizers”, analyzes the opportunity for microinverters and DC optimizers in the solar PV market worldwide. The study provides a comprehensive assessment of the demand drivers, technology costs, policy factors, and technology issues associated with the market for MLPEs. Global revenue and capacity forecasts, segmented by technology segment and region, extend through 2020. The report also includes profiles of key industry players and provides current and forecast company and technology market share data. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research website.
— Solar Builder magazine
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