Innovative solar string optimizer for a more profitable installation of solar cells
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | FERROAMP ELEKTRONIK AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 064 546 |
| Project duration | June 2015 - September 2016 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The goal of this project is to develop a solar string optimizer based on power electronics that enable a more profitable installation of PV solutions. The solar string optimizer is equipped with a distributed MPPT to optimize the solar panels production, and a DC / DC converter that stabilizes the output voltage of the solar string optimizer regardless of the solar radiation towards the PV panels. This product enables a more profitable installation of solar energy systems while Ferroamp take a decisive step in the development towards the long term goal of creating a modular system.
Expected results and effects
Already during the start-up phase, we noticed a great interest from potential customers to obtain and evaluate this solution, to the point that we accelerated the development of our solar string optimizer prototypes. The solar string optimizer significant benefits the production and installation as it maximizes energy supply and optimizes the surface of the solar system. In addition, the optimizer enables easy expansion or replacement of parts in the system. The optimizer will easily be able to adapt to the varying conditions a solar cells installation often involves.
Planned approach and implementation
Use cases, overall system concept and design goals have been developed based on completed systems design and market and competitive analysis. Design and technology choices have been investigated and established and three generations of prototypes have been developed and evaluated in the lab and on pilot installations at test customer sites. For each prototype generation, improvements have been implemented to improve the product with respect to efficiency, cost structure, control systems, electrical safety.