Canadian Solar deploys Ampt’s DC optimizers at 33MW solar plant

Ampt announced the deployment of its DC optimizers in a 33MW solar photovoltaic (PV) system with Canadian Solar.

The project uses Ampt’s DC String Optimizers in one of the largest deployments of DC power optimizers in the world.

The 33 MW installation capped off a six-month evaluation period by Canadian Solar, which began with a smaller demonstration project. Following the successful demonstration, Canadian Solar selected Ampt’s String Optimizer as it consistently outperformed other designs while costing less.

“Our initial work with Ampt surpassed expectations and laid the groundwork for the 33 MW utility-scale installation,” said Ken Rowbotham at Canadian Solar. “We chose Ampt for its clear technology advantages which support our broader commitment to being the industry-leading provider of clean solar energy across the globe.”

When compared to other options, Ampt String Optimizers delivered superior value. Ampt’s patented technology puts voltage and current limits on the output of each optimizer to allow twice the number of PV modules per string and eliminate half of the combiner boxes and associated cable and labor. Ampt also performs maximum power point tracking (MPPT) on every 20 modules to mitigate losses due to mismatch, and allows the inverter to operate at a high and narrow input voltage range to improve inverter performance. Ampt’s optional string-level data reporting via wireless communication helped validate comparison data.

“At Canadian Solar, we are always evaluating new technologies to lower the cost of solar energy for our customers,” said Ken Rowbotham at Canadian Solar. “The Ampt solution stood out, as it allowed us to reduce the cost of electrical balance-of-system (BOS) components, produce more energy and get the most out of the inverters.”

“We’re excited to partner with an organization of Canadian Solar’s experience and reputation within the industry,” said Darryl Parker, vice president of sales and marketing at Ampt. “This project – the largest of its kind to date – is not only a milestone for Ampt, but also truly indicative of the market’s future.”

According to research from Global Market Insights, DC power optimizers will continue to see rapid growth in the solar market. While the use of DC optimization started with the residential market at the module level, Ampt’s String Optimizers bring unique power conversion technology to large commercial and utility-scale power plants by lowering the total upfront cost of systems while increasing energy generation.

“While the PV market is on track to experience significant growth, the need to lower system costs is paramount.” said Levent Gun, CEO of Ampt. “Some large-scale solar developers are considering changing from 1,000 to 1,500-volt DC systems, while others are choosing to deploy String Optimizers. Both of these approaches reduce cost by eliminating electrical BOS components, but only Ampt increases MPPT resolution to improve lifetime system performance. As the industry works through the challenges of 1,500-volt component costs and availability, Ampt String Optimizers provide an immediate advantage using 1000-volt components.”