Solar Power World

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While at Solar Power International in Dallas last month I was able to drop by and see what Azuray, manufacturer of solar power electronics had to share. Here’s some of what the Oregon company has to offer:

AP 250 DC to DC power optimizer: The AP 250 can install with new or existing PV systems. It has efficient MPPT algorithms that the company says increases the energy output of PV systems experiencing module mismatch, shading or other obstructions. The device is compatible with all leading brand solar modules and string inverters, works with standard series module wiring methods, and accommodates solar arrays made up of multiple module brands. In addition, it does not require changing conventional installation methods. Also, a NEMA 4 rated enclosure keeps the electronics safe from environmental damage. The company says its solar power electronics are well suited for extreme temperatures and have a targeted life of 25 years. Because it’s only necessary to equip the affected solar modules with the AP250 to gain increased solar energy harvest, the device can help reduce budget strain and further increase returns on investment.

AP260: Azuray says after finding the maximum power point for each PV module, the AP260 matches each module’s output to the optimal operating point for the string inverter. It also has a 25-year warranty and uses components designed for extreme temperatures (85 °C) typical in PV systems. The device pairs with the Azuray ACM300 Communications Gateway to provide module and system-wide performance data. Also,  the device can shut off DC power output from the PV module to the inverter during a fire emergency or installation.

AC160: This monitoring-only device can be coupled with the Azuray AP260 when shade is present on a PV array.

ACM 300: The company says the ACM300 communications gateway offers PV array owners the ability to monitor system performance at a module level. In addition to monitoring, the communication gateway can be used for remote diagnostics. It serves up a web page via the Ethernet connector directly to a computer or network. Also, the ACM300 collects data from the solar modules and controls the function of the power optimizers. Data collected from the solar modules are used to calculate the most effective system operating point. This means all the components of the PV array are providing maximum energy output. The device can enable or disable the output of the AP300 power optimizers via power line communications over the existing DC wiring. These safety features include safe installation mode and manual shut-off.