Growatt, LG and Q CELLS Inverters Offer Rapid Shutdown with APsmart’s PVRSS Solution

APsmart proudly announces that Growatt, LG and Q CELLS Inverters are listed on its Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown Systems (PVRSS) certification to the UL 1741 standard. A total of 18 new inverter models, nine from Growatt, one from LG, and eight from Q CELLS were testing by CSA and certified to be used with APsmart’s Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown Equipment (PVRSE) solutions.

APsmart continues to expand its network of certified inverters, giving customers more choices from the ever-growing list of compatible inverters with APsmart’s PVRSE. All inverters on the APsmart list have been tested with APsmart’s rapid shutdown devices, including the RSD-S-PLC, RSD-D and Transmitter, in order to obtain the qualification to be listed on the PVRSS compatibility list.

The APsmart Rapid Shutdown Solution is compatible with more than 140 inverter models from 13 unique brands, including CHINT, CSI, Delta, Fimer, Fronius, Goodwe, Growatt, LG, Q CELLS, SMA, SolaX, Solis and Solectria. APsmart’s PVRSE solution complies with NEC 2017 & 2020 (690.12), allowing APsmart to offer a more reliable, flexible, safe and cost-effective solution for residential, commercial and utility systems.

A key part of the APsmart PVRSE is the Rapid Shutdown Device (RSD). APsmart’s RSD offers built-in safety, reliable technology, and is CSA, TUV and SunSpec Alliance certified, demonstrating the robust safety and quality of the RSD product. The APsmart RSD has already been installed in multiple projects around the world, and is ready for application in your next project.

Growatt Inverters Now Listed Under APsmart’s PVRSS Solution Sunspec Standard Compliance

APsmart proudly announces a new Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown System (PVRSS) certification to the UL 1741 standard with several new inverters from Growatt.

Altogether, 6 unique Growatt inverter models, ranging from 3kW to 6kW, were tested by CSA and certified for use with APsmart’s Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown Equipment (PVRSE). Among them is Growatt’s new single-phase hybrid inverter, ideal for both new and retrofit solar. The following inverter models have been added:

SPH 3000TL BL-US

SPH 3600TL BL-US

SPH 4000TL BL-US

SPH 4600TL BL-US

SPH 5000TL BL-US

SPH 6000TL BL-US

APsmart continues to expand its network of certified inverters, giving customers more choices from the ever-growing list of compatible inverters with APsmart’s PVRSE. All inverters on the APsmart list have been tested with APsmart’s rapid shutdown devices, including the RSD-S-PLC, RSD-D and Transmitter, in order to obtain the qualification to be listed on the PVRSS compatibility list.

Currently, the APsmart Rapid Shutdown Solution is compatible with more than 120+ inverter models from 11 unique brands, including CHINT, CSI, Delta, Fimer, Fronius, Goodwe, Growatt, SMA, SolaX, Solis and Solectria. The compatibility of these inverters and APsmart Rapid Shutdown Equipment (PVRSE) enables APsmart to offer a more reliable, flexible, safe and cost-effective solution for both residential and commercial systems.

A key part of the APsmart PVRSE is the Rapid Shutdown Device (RSD). APsmart’s RSD System offers built-in safety, reliable technology, and is CSA, TUV and SunSpec Alliance certified, which demonstrates the robust safety and quality of the RSD product. The APsmart RSD has already been shipped and installed in multiple projects around the world, and is ready for application in your next project.

APsmart Announced TUV certification of its RSD-D, Dual-Module Rapid Shutdown Device

APsmart’s newly launched dual-module rapid shutdown device RSD-D has received the European standard EN/IEC 62109-1:2010 certification by TÜV Rheinland, a global leader in independent testing, inspection and certification services.

The RSD-D, a key component of a Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown Solution (PVRSS) to meet NEC rapid shutdown requirements, is capable of serving two PV modules simultaneously, is quick and easy to install, and is highly cost-effective. The RSD-D meets NEC 2014, 2017 & 2020 (690.12) requirements, enabling the critical rapid shutdown function while simultaneously improving product cost and performance.

The RSD-D is already CSA, FCC, and SunSpec Alliance-certified; the addition of the TUV Rheinland certification further emphasizes the robust safety and quality of the product. The fully-compliant RSD-D devices will be shipping soon to markets worldwide.

APsmart Introduces Cost-Effective and Easy-to-Install RSD-D Rapid Shutdown Device

APsmart, the global leading supplier of DC MLPE Rapid shutdown devices, announces the launch of its dual-module Rapid Shutdown Device, the RSD-D. A key component of a PVRSE solution to meet NEC photovoltaic rapid shutdown requirements, the RSD-D is capable of serving two PV modules simultaneously, is quick and easy to install, and is highly cost-effective.

The new RSD-D meets NEC 2017 & 2020 (690.12) requirements, enabling the critical rapid shutdown function while simultaneously improving product cost and performance. By using the RSD-D and Transmitter-PLC in solar PV installations, the connection between each module can be cut off remotely or manually in case of an emergency, thus eliminating any high voltage DC in the solar array, which reduces the risk of accidents and improves the safety of the PV system.

The highlights of RSD-D include:

  • Dual-input channel
  • Supports modules at 8-80V Per Channel
  • Maximum Current is 15A per input
  • Buckle to the PV module frame directly
  • IP68 enclosure rating
  • Meets NEC 2017 & 2020 (690.12) requirements
  • Executes rapid shutdown of system when Transmitter-PLC signal is absent
  • Meets SunSpec requirements

The RSD-D is already CSA, FCC, SunSpec Alliance-certified, and the recent addition of TUV Rheinland certification further emphasizes the robust safety and quality of the product. The fully-compliant RSD-D devices will be shipping soon to markets worldwide.

FIMER partners with APsystems for rapid shutdown certifications

FIMER, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of solar inverters, has announced its UNO-DM-PLUS-Q-US and PVS-60-TL-US string inverters for residential and C&I applications in the US are now fully compatible with the APsmart Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown Equipment (PVRSE) from APsystems.

The APsmart system by APsystems allows constant monitoring and communication between the RSD-S-PLC and Transmitter-PLC, which means that FIMER’s inverters now meet the mandatory rapid shutdown regulatory requirements for grid connection in the US.

With the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reporting that the US installed 3.8GW of solar PV capacity in Q3 2020, and that residential installations increased by 14 percent between Q2 to Q3, the US solar PV market is expected to continue its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic with growth during 2021 and beyond.

The partnership means FIMER’s inverters can now be coupled with a cost-effective, safe, and reliable rapid shutdown solution which is UL 1741 certified and fully compliant with the National Electric Code (NEC) 2014, 2017 and 2020 690.12 Rapid Shutdown Requirements.

FIMER VP Technology for the US Ananda Hartzell said: “As a provider of a comprehensive, innovative portfolio of solar inverter products, systems and services addressing all market segments and types of solar installations, FIMER is well-positioned to support the demand in the US’ residential, commercial and industrial solar sectors. Working with APsystems means we now have one of the most widely recognised and respected solutions on the market, as its RSD system is already installed in approximately 300,000 around the globe and comes with 25 years’ warranty.”

The APsmart RSD System is a SunSpec Alliance-certified device which allows constant monitoring and communication between the RSD-S-PLC and Transmitter-PLC. FIMER’s string inverters, combined with APsmart’s RSD devices, offer a solution which provides all the required safety features to shut down a PV array at the module-level, which is the safest way to de-energize a PV system.

Olivier Jacques, APsystems business unit president and global executive vice president, further added: “FIMER is one of the largest manufacturers of solar inverters in the world, and its product portfolio complemented our rapid shutdown system solutions, meaning that end customers can be confident that FIMER’s inverters meet the rapid shutdown requirements in the US.”

The products are available through both FIMER and APsystems’ APsmart distribution partner networks.

APsystems Announces PVRSE Compatibility with its APsmart RSD and SMA Inverters

Module-level Rapid Shutdown solution for SMA-powered solar arrays in the United States

SEATTLE–APsystems welcomes SMA to its growing network of inverter manufacturers compatible with its APsmart brand of Sunspec standard-compliant Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown Equipment (PVRSE). Solar professionals in the United States can now combine the complete range of SunSpec Rapid Shutdown-certified SMA inverters with a reliable, safe and cost-effective APsmart Rapid Shutdown solution. Available throughout APsmart US distribution partner networks, the APsmart RSD has been certified by CSA to meet the UL 1741 standard for electrical safety and is fully compliant with the National Electric Code (NEC) 2014, 2017 and 2020 690.12 Rapid Shutdown Requirements.

“We are proud to have SMA, one of the most respected and recognized brands in the industry, join our list of inverter manufacturing partners using the APsmart RSD with their products,” said Olivier Jacques, APsystems business unit president and global executive vice president.

Already compatible with leading inverter manufacturers including Chint, CSI, Delta, Fronius, GoodWe, Growatt, Solectria and Solis, the APsmart RSD comes with a 25-year warranty, and tens of thousands of units have already been installed around the world since its launch last year.

“The APsmart RSD is Sunspec certified for rapid shutdown and delivers an easy, reliable and cost-effective solution for code compliance,” said Charles Ellis, VP of sales for the Americas region, SMA America. “When paired with SMA inverters, installers can be confident this technology will deliver best-in-class performance.”

As a result of intensive testing and cooperation from both SMA and APsystems, the approved Rapid Shutdown solution will now be available to customers through the APsmart distribution channel.

“The APsmart RSD solution is quickly being accepted as the new industry benchmark for rapid shutdown devices,” said Dr. Yuhao Luo, APsystems CTO. “We’ve built a powerful, reliable product that through its core function prioritizes the safety of homeowners and first responders.”

Technical documentation on the RSD-S-PLC can be found on the APsmart website where interested installers and SMA channel partners can also register for an upcoming training webinar on the APsmart PVRSE.

Webinars: Features and benefits of the APsmart RSD and Transmitter

This webinar will cover the features and benefits of the Rapid Shutdown Device (RSD) and Transmitter comprising APsmart’s convenient rapid shutdown solution.

REGISTER HERE: Wednesday, Dec 16th at 9am PST/12pm EST

REGISTER HERE: Wednesday, Jan 13th at 9am PST/12pm EST

New Chint 25kW Inverter Now Listed Under APsmart’s PVRSS Solution Sunspec Standard Compliance

APsmart proudly announces that the new Chint three phase 25kW 208Vac inverter is now listed on its Photovoltaic Rapid Shutdown System (PVRSS) certification to the UL 1741 standard. That brings the total of Chint inverter models tested by CSA and certified to be used with APsmart’s PVRSS solutions to five.

Joining Chint are five other unique inverter brands that have been added to the APsmart PVRSS certified compatibility list, including Delta, Fronius, SolaX, Solis and Solectria. More inverter manufacturers and models continue to be tested and added to the ever-growing list of compatible inverters with APsmart’s PVRSS.

The new 25kW Chint three-phase string inverter is designed for rooftop and carport PV applications. This compact unit is a high-performance, advanced and reliable inverter designed specifically for the North American environment and grid. This product ships with a Rapid Shutdown wire-box, fully integrated and separable with touch-safe fusing, monitoring, and AC and DC disconnect switches. The integrated PLC transmitter in the Rapid Shutdown wire-box enables PVRSS certified module-level rapid shutdown when used with the APsmart RSD products.

The compatibility of these inverters and APsmart’s Rapid Shutdown System (PVRSS) enables APsmart to offer a more reliable, flexible, safe and cost-effective solution to both residential and commercial systems. The APsmart PVRSS has been certified by CSA to meet the UL 1741 standard for electrical safety and is fully compliant with the National Electric Code (NEC) 2014, 2017, and 2020 690.12 Rapid Shutdown requirements.

A key part of the APsmart PVRSS is the Rapid Shutdown Device (RSD). APsmart’s RSD System offers built-in safety, reliable technology, and is already CSA, TUV and SunSpec Alliance certified, which demonstrates the robust safety and quality of the RSD product. The APsmart RSD has already been shipped and installed in multiple projects around the world, and is ready for application to your next project.

APsystems Announces Tigo Claims against Parent Company Withdrawn

SEATTLE–APsystems is pleased to announce that Tigo Energy has withdrawn its claims against APsystems’ parent company, Zhejiang Yuneng Technology. In an amended complaint that Tigo filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California late last month, Tigo amended its complaint to remove all claims against the parent company. APsystems views this as a positive development and confirmation that there is no evidence that its parent company has committed any act that Tigo can accuse of infringement.

APsystems continues to remain confident that it does not infringe on any valid Tigo IP, and will continue to vigorously defend its rights in this case. APsystems is currently working with its legal team to respond to Tigo’s complaint by October 19, 2020. A Case Management Conference is scheduled with the judge on October 28, 2020, at which time APsystems will learn more about the judge’s thoughts on case scheduling and procedure.

5 benefits to standardized solutions for rapid shutdown

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By Tom Tansy, chairman of the SunSpec Alliance

Rapid shutdown compliance has become a bit of a pain point for professionals in the solar industry, but there is good reason for this rule when it comes to first responder safety and working around a solar array. While safety is the essential and most important purpose, rapid shutdown also has a host of other benefits.

With 34 states now requiring rapid shutdown for PV arrays, compliance is necessary. But it doesn’t have to be painful. A growing number of manufacturers and balance-of-system suppliers have recognized that producing solutions that can operate using the same open communication standard and specifications, which the SunSpec Alliance has developed, can make it much easier for industry professionals to design projects and install systems that function well for the life of the system.

There are a multitude of benefits when using a standardized solution that is SunSpec-certified for rapid shutdown, from risk mitigation to compatibility to cost. Here is a closer look at five of the key benefits for solar installers.

Freedom of choice

SunSpec rapid shutdown-certified solutions offer more choice to installers. Ideally, as more solutions are certified, installers will have a wide selection of products and solutions from multiple suppliers that can be combined and work across a common communication standard.

This means an installer won’t be locked into one brand or platform, or have to rely on a single supplier with a non-standardized solution, but will instead have several component choices that can work across systems while meeting their individual needs or preferences when it comes to other features like size, color or cost.

Cost reduction

The adoption of standardized products will help stabilize the market and reduce the risk associated with relying on one supplier. This makes it more cost-effective to use standardized solutions for rapid shutdown. With standardized components, the cost for each item goes down, so the final assembly of a system will have a lower overall build cost.

This savings could be passed on to the consumer, or it can be recuperated as profit for the installer. Either way, it’s a winning strategy.

Checks system health

When using a product certified with SunSpec’s rapid shutdown technology, the signaling system acts as a health check. Every time the system is commissioned (which essentially happens every time the sun comes up), if every panel turns on and transmits a signal, a customer will know their system is working. If something doesn’t work in a panel or inverter, it will be apparent right away as long as the customer has gained some understanding of their system and how it operates.

This makes it easier for a customer to know when to call a service provider for a repair, whereas a system that doesn’t operate with standardized solutions could take months to indicate any problems.

Compatibility of components and seamless integration

In today’s industry, amid COVID-19 and trade tensions, no supplier is really safe from disruption to their business. But imagine you design a system based on one brand or a single supplier, and the product malfunctions or fails. What if that supplier has gone out of business or halted manufacturing five years from now?

Instead, when installers use a product that is SunSpec-certified for rapid shutdown, it would be much easier to find a compatible product to replace it with, whether or not the original supplier is operating. The installer can pick any component and place it in the array, and the system will continue to operate with no disruption as opposed to working with an out-of-stock product, which would require an entire redesign.

This means long-term system health, knowing components can be easily updated or replaced and still be interoperable.

Simpler compliance and satisfied customers

With more standardized solutions for rapid shutdown coming onto the market, installers have additional options that they know will be compliant with rapid shutdown requirements. An installer does not have to wait for a product to be available from a certain supplier, and the system build won’t be held up because of a missing component. In turn, customers will be more satisfied as they are less likely to experience delays in their systems being commissioned.

The SunSpec Alliance is committed to applying standards to the distributed energy industry, which will ultimately help transform the solar PV marketplace and create an environment that makes it easier and more cost-effective for solar professionals to do business.

See Article here.