Grid tie solar inverters

GE EverGold SVT series grid tie solar inverters are designed to increase solar energy harvest capability.

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GE Energy Industrial Solutions’ new GE EverGold SVT Series Grid Tie Solar Inverters for photovoltaic systems are available to distributors, integrators and contractors for new construction and retrofit projects. 

The transformerless design reduces inverter weight to about one-half of that of traditional transformer-design inverters on the market, making the installation of solar energy systems that much easier. Additionally, the GE EverGold SVT Inverter uses convection-cooling technology so there are no fans to fail or require periodic cleaning, simplifying post-installation maintenance over the life of the inverter.

“Integrators, contractors, distributors and OEMs will appreciate the features of GE’s EverGold SVT Inverter,” said Brad Parlee, senior product manager, Solar Inverters. From its factory-installed ac/dc switch to its wide maximum power point tracker (MPPT) input range, the SVT inverter offers design flexibility that makes application to specific job requirements easy, and installation simple.

The GE EverGold SVT Inverter reportedly includes two independent MPPTs for 4 kW and 5 kW, providing increased energy harvest capability. A wide DC MPPT input range (150 to 450 V dc) enables more options for system design. The available LAN communications card and monitoring software give customers the ability to easily measure and track their energy generation.

Additionally, Parlee says the dual MPPTs on the 4- and 5-kW units keep the photovoltaic system working at its highest efficiency even if one inverter serves two arrays on different roofs. “The GE EverGold SVT Inverter has a well-thought-out design that allows for efficient installation, low maintenance and user-friendly interaction,” he said.

The GE EverGold SVT Inverters, which convert solar module energy from dc to ac power, are available for 2- to 5-kW applications. The units come with a standard RS-232 port. Software for energy monitoring, LAN, RS-485, USB and relay cards is available as an option. GE’s standard warranty and technical support begin at installation and continue for 10 years.

An SVT inverter converts the dc electricity produced in photovoltaic cells into useful ac electricity and feeds it into an existing electrical grid. GE’s EverGold SVT Inverters reportedly maximize the system’s efficiency by keeping the array at its maximum power point.

Building owners who have the GE EverGold SVT Inverters can use the power produced by their system, and if there is extra power they may be permitted to sell that energy to a regional utility. This is a policy known as “net metering,” whereby the entity that owns the renewable energy power source receives compensation from the utility for its net outflow of power.

Along with a transformerless design engineered for flexibility, increased energy harvest capability and ease of installation, the GE EverGold SVT Inverter reportedly delivers:

• Simplified, quick installation via versatile mounting bracket and no-screw terminations
• Durability and flexibility thanks to the NEMA 3R enclosure that offers both indoor and outdoor installation and allows for a wide operational range at temperatures between -4 F to +122 F (-20 C to +50 C)
• Connectivity via RS-232 communication and optional LAN, RS-485, dry contacts, and USB communication cards.

- Edited by Chris Vavra, Control Engineering, www.controleng.com