SolarEdge optimizes every link in the solar PV chain. MPPT electronics maximize energy production from each module. Fixed string voltage enables constraint-free design and full roof utilization. Module level monitoring pinpoints faults and prevents theft. The result: increased production of clean, grid-ready energy at a lower cost per watt than any other competitive offering. 

Limitations Of Current Residential And Commercial Solar Systems White Paper

Solar Edge Architecture Overview White Paper

Solar Edge System Overview White Paper

Advantages:

Maximum Power Harvesting (up to 25% More Power)

• No partial shading sensitivity
• No module mismatch losses
• No undervoltage losses
• Improved MPP tracking performance

Simple, Plug and Play, Error-Free System Design & Installation

• Cuts installation time and cost by 15% to 25%
• Removes traditional design constraints with SolarEdge flexible architecture
• Simplifies installation by connecting different length strings to single-string inverter
• Allows for multi-facet installation with single-string inverter
• Scalable installation for future needs

Module-level Monitoring & Troubleshooting

• Real time monitoring revolutionizes installation feedback and troubleshooting
• In-module monitoring system continuously tracks module power and status
• Communication over the existing power lines, without additional wires
• Data analysis software automatically detects and locates faults

Installer & Firefighter Safety

• Electrocution risk eliminated due to low module voltage during installation
• Maximizes safety by enabling module shutdown during service
• Protects firefighters by automatic module shutdown
• Designed to withstand extreme outdoor conditions
• Extraordinary reliability: 25 year warranty for PowerBox™, 12 years standard warranty for inverter. 20 year warranty included with our Mitsubishi Diamond Series Systems.

The SolarEdge three-fold architecture consists of Power Optimizers which perform module-level MPPT, a highly reliable inverter, and a web portal for module-level monitoring and fault detection. The PowerBox is embedded into each module by module-manufacturers, replacing  the junction box, or retrofitted by PV installers onto c-Si, thin-film and CPV modules. The system features the following technological advancements:

Module-level MPPT:

A highly-optimized algorithm ensures that each module is constantly kept at MPP, preventing power losses even under panel mismatch or partial shading conditions. On top of the added energy benefit, module-level MPPT is faster than MPPT performed by a centralized inverter, allowing the modules to better react to changes in sun irradiance and temperature, and minimizing power loss on cloudy days when changes in irradiance are frequent and fast.

Highly Efficient DC Conversion:

Each PowerBox employs DC-DC conversion allowing it to either boost or buck the output voltage of the module without changing the output power. The DC conversion is highly efficient with a peak efficiency of over 98%.

Fixed String Voltage:

A unique SolarEdge innovation: The string’s voltage is maintained fixed at the optimal point for DC to AC inversion, regardless of the number of modules in a string, their performance, or environmental conditions. The fixed string voltage enables constraint free site design, optimal inverter efficiency and reliability, and reduced installation cost.

Advanced Power-Line-Communication:

All PowerBoxes continuously measure and communicate a range of module-specific status indicators.  Performance data is transmitted from the PowerBoxes to the inverter over the existing DC power lines (PLC), eliminating the need for additional wiring. In the inverter, a built-in communication gateway with LAN and wireless connectivity options, enables easy broadband connection to a remote monitoring server.

ASIC Technology:

One key factor in increasing the efficiency and overall reliability of the PowerBox is the elimination of discrete components and their integration into Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs): The high-voltage, high-current, analog blocks are implemented in a high-voltage Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) process, geared specifically for harsh-environmental conditions such as those of the automotive industry. The logic-based digital blocks are implemented in a mature, extremely high-yield process developed by the world's largest semiconductor fabrication plant.