Lightweight PV Inverters

Lightweight PV Inverters


Program:
Solar ADEPT
Award:
$2,499,787
Location:
Austin, Texas
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
01/30/2012 - 05/29/2015

Technology Description:

PV inverters convert DC power generated by modules into usable AC power. Ideal Power's initial 30kW 94lb PV inverter reduces the weight of comparable 30kW PV inverters by 90%—reducing the cost of materials, manufacturing, shipping, and installation. With ARPA-E support, new bi-directional silicon power switches will be developed, commercialized, and utilized in Ideal Power's next-generation PV inverter. With these components, Ideal Power will produce 100kW inverters that weight less than 100lb., reducing the weight of conventional 3,000lb. 100kW inverters by more than 95%. The new power switches will cut IPC's $/W manufacturing cost in half, as well as further reduce indirect shipping and installation costs.

Potential Impact:

If successful, Ideal Power would reduce the weight of PV system components by 95%—significantly reducing the cost to manufacture, ship, and install PV systems.

Security:

Lowering the cost of PV systems would help increase the use of solar energy, which in turn would decrease our dependence on fossil fuels and improve U.S. energy security.

Environment:

Solar energy systems create zero harmful emissions while providing energy to homes and businesses, so their widespread use would significantly improve air quality.

Economy:

This project could help position the U.S. as a leader in the power electronics industry.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Michael Haney
Project Contact:
Dr. Paul Bundschuh
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
paul.bundschuh@idealpower.com

Partners

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

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Release Date:
04/20/2011