Chip boosts solar panel efficiency
29 September 2010
Power Electronics / Power Management
STMicroelectronics has unveiled what it claims is the industry’s first IC to combine important power optimisation and power conversion functions for solar generators.
ST’s innovation will allow multipanel arrays, ranging from domestic rooftop-type equipment to larger installations, to deliver more energy at a lower cost per Watt.
The new SPV1020 chip allows maximum power-point tracking (MPPT) to be applied individually for each panel. MPPT automatically adjusts a solar generator’s output circuitry to compensate for power fluctuations resulting from varying solar intensity, shadowing, temperature change, panel mismatch or ageing. Without MPPT, the power from a solar panel can fall by 10% to 20% if even a small percentage of its surface is in shadow. This disproportionate decrease may restrict the choice of site or force the use of a smaller array to avoid shadows. In some cases, it can challenge the viability of the project.
The SPV1020 enables distributed MPPT (DMPPT), which compensates each panel individually, in contrast to a centralised MPPT scheme that applies a ‘best-fit’ compensation to all the panels in the array. DMPPT is the most promising technique to improve the energy productivity of photovoltaic systems because it maximises the power extracted from each panel regardless of adjacent module performance, even if a module has failed.
Implementing DMPPT usually requires a network of discrete components for each panel in an array. The SPV1020 replaces this network with a single chip and also integrates the DC/DC converter to step-up the panel’s low-voltage DC output to a larger DC voltage from which line-quality AC power is produced.
For more information contact Robin Scholes, Avnet Kopp, +27 (0)11 809 6100, [email protected], www.avnet.co.za
Further reading:
Powering Innovation eBook: Changing what’s possible
Power Electronics / Power Management
This exclusive read, entitled ‘Changing what’s Possible,’ delves into how power dense Vicor modules enable many world-changing innovations across various sectors.
Read more...
16-channel multicell battery monitor
Altron Arrow
Power Electronics / Power Management
The ADBMS6830B is a multicell battery stack monitor that measures up to 16 series-connected battery cells with a lifetime total measurement error of less than 2 mV.
Read more...
Reliable redundancy with the Mibbo M3DN Series
Conical Technologies
Power Electronics / Power Management
Designed for use with two parallel-connected power supplies, the M3DN Series allows for true redundancy, making it ideal for mission-critical applications.
Read more...
Automotive power-over-coax inductor
RS South Africa
Power Electronics / Power Management
TDK has launched the ADL8030VA, a high-performance inductor designed specifically for power-over-coaxial applications.
Read more...
Rugged PSU for challenging conditions
Conical Technologies
Power Electronics / Power Management
Built for rugged reliability, the Mibbo MFC Series delivers stable, efficient power in environments where moisture, dust, and temperature extremes are everyday challenges.
Read more...
Enhance SiC device efficiency using merged-pin Schottky diodes
NuVision Electronics
Editor's Choice Power Electronics / Power Management
Silicon carbide (SiC) has advantages over silicon (Si) that make it particularly suitable for Schottky diodes in applications such as fast battery chargers, photovoltaic (PV) battery converters, and traction inverters.
Read more...
15 W power module with wide input range
Brabek
Power Electronics / Power Management
RECOM’s miniature power modules provide 15 W output and operate over a wide input range of 18-264 V AC or 18-375 V DC.
Read more...
Industrial-grade DIN rail PSU
Conical Technologies
Power Electronics / Power Management
The Mibbo MTR960W is a reliable and cost-effective PSU option that delivers a solid 960 W of output power at 24 or 48 V DC.
Read more...
Energy harvesting and Matter for smarter homes
RF Design
Power Electronics / Power Management
Qorvo’s collaboration with e-peas on the Matter Enabled Light Switch marks another significant step in advancing Matter adoption across the IoT industry.
Read more...
3-terminal filters for automotive applications
RS South Africa
Power Electronics / Power Management
TDK has expanded its YFF series of 3-terminal filters for automotive applications to include higher voltages up to 35 V and higher capacitances up to 4,7 µF.
Read more...
printer friendly version