A Silent Revolution in Utility Solar - Central to String Inverters with Anton Patton, CPS America | EP 158

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Today on the Clean Power Hour, the silent revolution in central to string inverters for utility-scale solar. In this episode of The Clean Power Hour, Tim Montague interviews Anton Patton, Director of Product Management at CPS America, about the grand transition from central to string inverters in utility-scale solar. Visit CPS America at Booth 2521 sands level 2 at RE+ 2023 to learn more about CPS America.

Anton Patton has over 10 years of experience in the solar industry. He started in engineering roles designing commercial and industrial solar systems before joining CPS America 5 years ago. As Director of Product Management and Applications Engineering at CPS America, Anton helps drive innovation and bring new products to market that advance solar PV technology.

CPS America is the leading three-phase string inverter manufacturer in North America having shipped over 6GW of inverters. Their flagship 250kW string inverter is designed for utility-scale solar plants from 2MW to 2GW.

In this episode, Anton provides an inside look at the major transition happening from central inverters to string inverters in utility-scale solar. He explains key differences in architecture and highlights the benefits of string inverters like improved uptime, data granularity, and design flexibility. Anton also discusses new energy storage products CPS is launching for utility and C&I markets.

He provides insights into CPS's collaborative work culture.  Anton invites listeners to visit CPS at SPI to see new products launching like their 350kW string inverter and 800V balance of system equipment aiding the shift to string inverters.

Key Takeaways

1. What are the main factors driving the adoption of string inverters over central inverters for utility-scale solar plants? 
2. How do the system architecture and equipment differ between central inverter and string inverter systems?
3. What new string inverter and balance of system products is CPS America launching?
4. What energy storage solutions is CPS bringing to market for utility and C&I customers?

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The Clean Power Hour is produced by the Clean Power Consulting Group and created by Tim Montague. Contact us by email: [email protected]

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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. Learn more at www.chintpowersystems.com