Ampt Releases New String Optimizer for Large-Scale PV Systems

Ampt LLC has ushered in a new era in PV system optimization with the release of its new String Optimizer, a DC power optimizer 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. Ampt will showcase its String Optimizer at several partner booths during Intersolar North America 2014, including the Shoals booth 9611 and Bonfiglioli booth 8311.

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 percent and reduces the amount 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.

“Our String Optimizer lowers the total cost of the largest of PV systems,” said Levent Gun, CEO at Ampt. “It not only optimizes on cost, but it also distributes the MPPT so you get more energy out of the system. This is a significant step forward for PV system design and a step closer to grid parity.”

Ampt String Optimizers include the following features:

Multiple MPP trackers per PV string to improve system performance
Ampt Mode technology to increase inverter output power
String Stretch technology to double number of modules per string
Patented output voltage and current limits
Independent power optimization without reliance on communication
Compatible with any inverter and enables HDPV-compliant inverters

“In an effort to lower the cost of electrical components, large-scale PV developers and EPCs are looking to next generation system designs,” said Dean Solon, CEO at Shoals. “Ampt’s String Optimizer allows developers to deploy PV power plants with the cost saving benefits of a 2000 V system using only 1000 V components while meeting all 1000 V code requirements. At the same time, deployments with Ampt increase system lifetime performance.”

— Solar Builder magazine

[source: http://solarbuildermag.com/news/ampt-releases-new-string-optimizer-large-scale-pv-systems/]