SolarMagic Power Optimizer

DESCRIPTION

SolarMagic power optimizers are Dc-to-DC converters in the form of small boxes attached to each PV panel in an array. They can be retrofitted to existing PV systems or included in the installation of new systems. Because of centralized voltage requirements of inverters in solar systems today, shading of as little as 10 percent of an array's surface area can lead to a 50 percent drop in electricity output. SolarMagic technology recoups up to 57% of this lost output by using proprietary algorithms to track the Maximum Power Point (MPP) at a distributed panel level, optimizing voltage for the entire string.

INNOVATIVE ASPECT

SolarMagic power optimizers are a significant improvement on the traditional solutions to the problem of panel to panel mismatch and the associated system-wide power loss from shading. Bypass diodes used today in solar panels offer a partial solution to complete loss of energy harvesting from a string, but power optimizers are able to recuperate more energy and are more reliable than micro-inverters.

BENEFITS

By improving PV system performance in real world conditions and mitigating panel mismatch and partial shading problems, SolarMagic power optimizers offer three principal benefits: 1. An increased and accelerated return on investement for array owners; 2. More installation options, including both larger potential array sizes and easier installation; 3. A potential increase in the number of solar-suitable roofs of around 25 percent, allowing the PV market to increase growth.