Central inverters play a critical role in utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, converting the direct current (DC) generated by large solar arrays into alternating current (AC) for grid distribution. These inverters are designed to handle high power levels and operate efficiently in large-scale installations. Below is an overview of the top 10 central inverters used in utility-scale solar PV projects, highlighting their unique features and capabilities.
Introduction to Central Inverters
Central inverters are larger in size and capacity compared to string inverters, typically used in utility-scale solar projects where multiple DC feeders are routed into the inverter. These inverters handle high power outputs, often in the range of several megawatts (MW), and are critical for ensuring the optimal performance and reliability of solar power plants. Key characteristics include:
- Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): Optimizes energy production by adjusting to the optimal voltage and current levels for solar panels under varying conditions.
- Grid Management Features: Includes voltage and frequency regulation, reactive power control, and anti-islanding protection to ensure stable grid interaction.
- High Efficiency: Designed to maximize energy yield and reduce system losses in large-scale solar projects.
1. Sungrow Power Supply Co., Ltd.
Founded: 1997
Headquarters: Hefei, China
Sungrow is a global leader in inverter solutions, with a focus on utility-scale solar installations. Models such as the SG3150UD-MV-US, SG3425UD, SG3600UD, and SG4400UD-MV-US are designed for large solar power plants, offering advanced features to maximize energy production and ensure grid stability.
Key Features:
- Up to 28 DC inputs for large PV arrays.
- Advanced MPPT and grid support functionalities.
- High reliability and efficiency for harsh environments.
- Integrated monitoring and remote control capabilities.
Website: Sungrow Power Supply
Courtesy: Sungrow, SG4400UD-MV-US.
2. Gamesa Electric
Founded: 1931
Headquarters: Madrid, Spain
Gamesa Electric is known for its renewable energy solutions, including the Proteus PV central inverter series, which is ideal for utility-scale solar projects. These inverters offer high efficiency and reliability, making them suitable for large installations.
Key Features:
- 4000 series with power ratings up to 4 MW.
- Integrated grid support functions for voltage and frequency control.
- High power density for optimized space utilization.
Website: Gamesa Electric
Courtesy Gamesa Electric: Proteus PV inverter, 4000 series.
3. GE Renewable Energy
Founded: 1892
Headquarters: Boston, USA
GE’s LV5+ Solar Inverter and FLEXINVERTER are high-efficiency solutions for utility-scale solar installations. These inverters offer robust performance in large solar projects, with advanced grid management and system integration capabilities.
Key Features:
- Power output from 3.0 MW to 3.9 MW.
- Suitable for solar PV and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
- High power density and flexibility for large-scale solar farms.
Website: GE Renewable Energy
Courtesy GE Renewable Energy: LV5+ solar inverter series
4. Ingeteam
Founded: 1972
Headquarters: Navarra, Spain
Ingeteam’s PowerMax series of central inverters are designed for utility-scale solar applications, delivering high efficiency and reliability in large installations. These inverters are widely used in solar farms around the world.
Key Features:
- Optimized for large PV installations with power ratings up to 4.5 MW.
- Modular design for flexibility and scalability.
- Comprehensive grid support functionalities.
Website: Ingeteam
Courtesy: Ingeteam
5. Power Electronics
Founded: 1987
Headquarters: Valencia, Spain
Power Electronics is a leading provider of central inverters for large solar projects. Their HEC V1000, HEM, and HEMK series are designed for utility-scale installations, offering robust and efficient performance.
Key Features:
- Power ratings up to 5 MW per inverter.
- Advanced MPPT technology for optimized energy harvest.
- Built-in monitoring and grid support functionalities.
Website: Power Electronics
Courtesy: Power Electronics
6. Delta Electronics
Founded: 1971
Headquarters: Taipei, Taiwan
Delta Electronics produces a range of central inverters suitable for large-scale solar installations. The M50A series is designed for utility-scale projects, offering high efficiency and durability.
Key Features:
- Modular design for easy integration into large solar systems.
- Optimized for utility-scale installations with advanced MPPT.
- Remote monitoring and control capabilities.
Website: Delta Electronics
Courtesy Delta Electronics, Inc. Model M50A
7. Chint Power Systems (CPS)
Founded: 1984
Headquarters: Shanghai, China
Chint Power Systems provides central inverters with advanced features for large-scale solar projects. Their CPS 4.2 MVA Transformer Skid offers high efficiency and reliable performance in utility-scale installations.
Key Features:
- Up to 4.2 MVA capacity for large solar arrays.
- MPPT and grid management functionalities.
- Designed for robust performance in various environmental conditions.
Website: Chint Power Systems
Courtesy CPS 4.2 MVA Transformer Skid
8. TMEIC (Toshiba Mitsubishi-Electric Industrial Systems Corporation)
Founded: 2003
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
TMEIC offers a variety of central inverters suitable for large-scale solar projects. Their Solar Ware 2700 series is known for its high efficiency and advanced grid support functionalities, ensuring reliable performance in utility-scale solar farms.
Key Features:
- Power ratings up to 2.7 MW per unit.
- Grid voltage regulation and reactive power control.
- Designed for high efficiency and durability.
Website: TMEIC
Courtesy TMEIC: Solar Ware 2700
9. FIMER
Founded: 1942
Headquarters: Vimercate, Italy
FIMER, which acquired ABB’s solar inverter division, offers the PVS980 series for utility-scale solar installations. These inverters are built to deliver maximum energy yield and robust grid integration capabilities.
Key Features:
- Power ratings up to 5 MW per unit.
- Advanced monitoring and remote control features.
- Reliable grid support functions for voltage and frequency regulation.
Website: FIMER
Courtesy FIMER: PVS980-58BC
10. SMA Solar Technology AG
Founded: 1981
Headquarters: Niestetal, Germany
SMA’s Sunny Central UP series is designed for utility-scale solar installations, providing robust performance and high energy conversion efficiency. These inverters are optimized for large solar farms and commercial projects.
Key Features:
- Power output up to 5.5 MW.
- Integrated grid management and advanced MPPT functionality.
- Remote monitoring and control capabilities.
Website: SMA Solar Technology
Courtesy SMA: Sunny Central UP
Summary
Central inverters are a critical component of utility-scale solar PV systems, ensuring the efficient conversion of DC to AC power and seamless grid integration. The top central inverter manufacturers, including Sungrow, GE Renewable Energy, Power Electronics, and SMA, offer advanced technologies such as MPPT, grid voltage regulation, and remote monitoring to maximize energy yield and ensure grid stability. These inverters are essential for optimizing the performance and reliability of large-scale solar power plants.
For detailed specifications and installation guidelines, always refer to the inverter datasheets and consult with the manufacturer during the design stage.
