APsystems Surpasses 2 GW of Shipments Worldwide

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

JIAXING, China – March 7th, 2022 – APsystems, the global leader in multi-platform solar MLPE devices, today announced it has surpassed 2 gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity to date in 2022. APsystems now has more than 146,000 solar installation sites in over 100 countries utilizing its groundbreaking microinverters and rapid shutdown devices (RSDs).

The announcement comes as APsystems passes the 1-million-unit mark for RSD shipments under its APsmart brand, another major achievement for the company. Since launching in 2019, APsmart business units have experienced solid growth supported by an innovative range of SunSpec compliant rapid shutdown devices including single and dual-module solutions.

“Reaching two gigawatts is a tremendous accomplishment for our global organization and a milestone we are all very proud of,” said Dr. Zhi-min Ling, co-founder and chairman of APsystems. “Our customers around the world recognize the tremendous value and benefits of using APsystems products. This milestone is the result of our commitment to consistently add to that value and support our customers’ goals.”

In addition to the high-efficiency power conversion provided by APsystems products in sites around the world, the 2 GW milestone translates to roughly 2.8 terawatt hours (TWh) of total energy produced, with a carbon offset of more than 2 million tons of CO2.

“APsystems has been a benchmark leader in solar energy since 2010,” said Olivier Jacques, APsystems president of global business units and global executive vice-president. “We have been recognized for creating the best-selling native 3-phase quad microinverter, and, recently, the most powerful range of dual-module microinverters in the world with the DS3 series. We are driven to push the boundaries of solar power.”

APsystems’ success in reaching the 2 GW milestone as cumulative shipments of microinverters and RSD solutions, is attributed, in large part, to its global dedication to innovation combined with the experience and capabilities of its employees in each business unit around the world. Driven by customer demand, the power electronics design experts comprising APsystems’ engineering and R&D teams employ the latest breakthroughs in power inversion circuitry, semiconductor device technology, high-speed encrypted communication protocols and intelligent control. APsystems’ newly introduced product line, the DS3 microinverter series, is a continuation of its ever-evolving roadmap centered on disruptive solar technology.

Additionally, APsystems continues to invest in its gateway software, inverter firmware, and its cloud-based online platform to protect installer and consumer data while providing customers with the best possible user experience. APsystems’ information security management system (ISMS) is now certified to ISO/IEC 27001:2013 (also known as ISO27001), the international standard for information security, and encrypted Zigbee technology has been integrated as a standard feature in all new generations of multi-module microinverters.

People, innovation and leading-edge system design and security are part of the framework that has propelled APsystems to the forefront of global solar MLPE system leadership. APsystems would like to thank all its customers, partners, and employees for being part of this tremendous achievement, and for positively impacting its story, and indeed the world itself, for the better.

APsystems Introduces the DS3, the World’s Most Powerful Dual-Module Microinverter series

APsystems unveils the DS3 series, a dual-module, single phase microinverter product line for residential and commercial solar applications at the Solar Solutions International trade show in The Netherlands.

A new, groundbreaking design for APsystems, the DS3 series is launching with multiple power offerings in several major global markets, with outputs up to 960VA—making it the most powerful dual-module microinverter in the world and reflecting APsystems’ commitment to powerful innovation with global capability.

The new platform architecture, built from the ground up by the power electronics design experts comprising APsystems’ engineering and R&D teams, employs the latest breakthroughs in power inversion circuitry, semiconductor device technology, high-speed communication and intelligent control.

The DS3 series is designed to be paired with virtually any choice of PV module type and size, including 60 and 72-cell modules, 120 and 144 split-cell modules, as well as bi-facial modules. With multiple output ranges available, installers can capably find an optimal DS3 microinverter model to match their choice of PV module type, size and capacity to maximize the power output and increase energy harvest. The new product line is also fully compatible with APsystems’ existing QS1 and YC600 microinverters as well as ECU-R, ECU-C and ECU-B gateway devices.

DS3 Series microinverters offer the following features and benefits:

  • Maximized power output for each application to harness today’s high-capacity PV modules
  • High 97% efficiency
  • Reactive Power Control, meeting interconnection requirements
  • A wide range of power outputs ideal for all major solar markets
  • More intelligent, streamlined architecture
  • Future-proof with remote upgradeability
  • 20% fewer components for increased reliability
  • Encrypted Zigbee wireless for faster communication speed and enhanced system security

The DS3 Series will launch in most regions in Q4 of this year with the following models available by market:

  • EMEA: DS3-L at 730VA, DS3 at 880VA
  • USA & CANADA: DS3-S at 640VA, DS3-L at 768VA & DS3 at 880VA
  • AUSTRALIA: DS3-S at 625VA, DS3-L at 750VA and DS3 at 880VA

The DS3 series continues to build on the successful APsystems line of multi-module microinverters, offering reduced logistics costs, faster installation, improved communication and connection features, and a wide MPPT voltage range for greater energy harvest during low light conditions.

DS3 series microinverters will be on display at the APsystems stand #C9.1 at the Solar Solutions International, the largest trade show for solar energy in Northwest Europe, September 28-30 at the Expo Haarlemmermeer in The Netherlands.

APsystems at SNEC 15th Conference & Exhibition, Booth#: E7-550, June 3-5, 2021, Shanghai, China

Don’t miss the opportunity to get updated on the latest APsystems innovations to come in 2021.

Following a very special period for everyone, the whole APsystems team is now more than ever delighted and excited to present you a full range of innovations ranging from a complete new multi-module microinverters platform to future-oriented advanced rapid shutdown solutions and sneak preview on our upcoming module AC storage solution.

Highlights of day 1.

Celebrate live certification on APsystems booth!

APsystems booth has hold the on-site certification ceremony for the new generation of dual-core Rapid shutdown products. CSA Group leaders have visited APsystems booth of and issued relevant product certificates on site in presence of our co-founder, CEO and Chairman, Dr Zhi Min Ling.

Solar professionals upgrade their skills with live training on MLPE solutions.

Every day at 11 am and 14.30 PM, APsystems technical experts share best installation practices, system introduction and case studies analysis on the latest microinverters, rapid shutdown products and energy storage solutions onsite

Still 1 day to go! Register and visit us, booth E7 550.

Thanks for visiting APsystems on Prosun Solar booth @ Smart Energy Conference & Exhibition in Sydney May12, 13

APsystems Launches EMA Manager App, an all-in-one application for solar professionals

Included in the new app are installer-specific statistics, including total number of customers, inverters installed, and total energy produced which provides installers with valuable information as well as a unique selling tool to showcase their environmental impact.

The new app is being introduced as APsystems has recently surpassed 100,000 registered installations in more than 120 countries on its EMA platform. As APsystems’ footprint continues to grow worldwide, this app redefines ease of solar inverter installation just as APsystems has redefined simplicity and convenience in its easy-to-install inverter platform.

APsystems looks ahead after a record 2020

New APsystems dual microinverter, the DS3

Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the solar industry and the global economy overall, 2020 was a banner year for APsystems, which continues to advance its leadership in multi-module microinverter solutions.

The international company celebrated its 10th anniversary, surpassed 1 GW in microinverter shipments, marked a one-day delivery milestone, and further strengthened its relationships with partner companies, particularly in the emerging Latin American (LATAM) market.

The beginning

APsystems was founded in Silicon Valley in 2010 and has become a global leader in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of module-level power electronics (MLPE) products based on its solar technology.

The company’s co-founders, President and CEO Dr. Zhi-Min Ling and Chief Technology Officer Dr. Yuhao Luo, both have experience in the semiconductor and photovoltaics industries, having served in leading roles at Xilinx and Solaria Corp.

Within about two years, APsystems launched its first single and duo microinverter products. Later, the company launched the YC1000, the first native three-phase quad microinverter, then the dual microinverter YC600 with RPC function, and the QS1 microinverter.

In 2016, Olivier Jacques joined APsystems as vice president. With experience across many high-tech industries, including executive-level positions at Enphase Energy and Samsung Electronics, Jacques played an important role in increasing revenues, developing sales channels, launching a new product platform, and repositioning the company as a value-added solutions provider.

Alvin Xianyu, APsystems LATAM director

Today, APsystems has grown to encompass several global subsidiaries with warehouses, sales, marketing, and technical support teams around the world, including LatAm, Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific, serving customers in more than 120 countries.

Main products include both AC-side microinverters and DC-side rapid shutdown devices for residential and commercial solar installations. The company’s EMA energy monitoring and analysis software also provides customer control over each individual module and microinverter in a solar array.

Alvin Xianyu, LATAM director of APsystems, called the company’s 10-year anniversary a “major landmark,” especially in the evolving inverter industry. “It has been a long and exciting journey,” said Xianyu. “The path we’ve taken to get here has been incredibly fulfilling and has brought a strong sense of accomplishment.”

The company has also been profitable each of the past nine years.

“Staying alive is one thing,” said Xianyu, “but growing profitably when you need to heavily invest in R&D on one side, while keeping enough agility to adapt to an ever-changing emerging market on the other side, is another challenge.”

He added that APsystems’ success is primarily due to the “hard work, determination, and patience of the hundreds of talented and committed people who have joined and believed in this company over the years.”

The milestones

By the end of 2020, APsystems’ global cumulative microinverter shipments surpassed 1 GW, representing more than 3.5 million individual units. They are expected to generate a total 1.24 billion kWh annually and reduce carbon dioxide output by 910,000 tons, equal to the environmental benefits of 45 million trees.

When the impacts of Covid-19 started in early 2020, APsystems adjusted its production and business strategy in a timely manner and achieved growth in several main markets, including the United States, Europe, and LatAm.

APsystems plans to keep concentrating on product and market development. In fact, the company’s next goal is to achieve 1 GW of microinverter shipments annually.

It also reached a one-day delivery milestone last year: On Dec. 1, 2020, the company shipped 22,000 microinverter units totaling over 27 MW. Xianyu said the units were mostly quad microinverters, which offer distributors and installers increased reliability and lower MLPE system costs.

He added the delivery represented a record-setting moment for APsystems and an achievement for any inverter supplier to ship such volume in a single day.

Building long-term partnerships

In 2020, APsystems remained focused on steady growth in the emerging LatAm solar market, especially Brazil. To support that growth, the company also devoted itself to strengthening its relationships with key regional partners.

The company has been in the LatAm market for over eight years, and its products have earned a good reputation among regional installers and other industry stakeholders. Xianyu said the company saw the strong potential of the “fast-growing” LatAm market.

“When you combine sufficient solar irradiance with supportive policies on clean energy from local governments, you obtain strong driving factors which set the foundation for a growing and sustainable solar business in LatAm,” he explained.

Another key to APsystems’ success in LatAm has been close collaboration with leading distributors. The company has been working with Ecori Energia Solar, one of the largest distributed generation (DG) PV system distributors in Brazil, for almost six years. Their partnership has helped increase APsystems’ presence in the promising Brazilian market.

“Both of us have the same view of the MLPE segment, and we treat each other as reliable partners as well as good friends,” said Xianyu.

Leandro Martins, president and founder of Ecori

“With a great sense of professionalism and ethics, together we created this market from scratch,” said Martins. “Our resellers started to migrate their sales from other technologies to APsystems microinverters, and they love it.”

Xianyu credited Ecori’s large business and service network in Brazil to the company’s “very professional team highly responsible for added value and contribution to this market through consistent best-in-class technical support and training.”

Although Brazil is among LatAm’s largest solar markets, it still has some obstacles to overcome. “Each coin has two sides; opportunity and challenge always coexist,” said Xianyu.

He said APsystems keeps an eye on uncertainties like potential policy change, unstable exchange rates, and other big challenges like the unexpected impact of Covid-19. Xianyu also cited a desire to continually lower system costs so that microinverter solutions gain even more interest in commercial applications.

“The greatest challenge we face here is to ensure the resellers also do a great job on their installations,” said Martins. “We know that education and training are key for newcomers in the market, as many new companies need to acquire the necessary knowledge to guarantee high-quality installation services for residential and commercial system owners. We believe this is improving.”

Martins pointed out that Ecori offers free training, both online and at the company’s center in São Paulo city. He said, “We are always available to make our market more professional.”

Another challenge is the discussion over potential changes to Brazil’s DG rules. Martins said he hopes the country’s politicians will protect the solar industry, noting President Jair Bolsonaro “already gave many speeches in its favor.” Martins said some associations, such as Movimento Solar Livre, are also “doing a great job trying to avoid any kind of taxation.”

Both Martins and Xianyu are pleased and encouraged to see Brazil’s DG market becoming increasingly mature.

According to Brazilian solar association ABSolar, the country recently surpassed the historic mark of 7 GW of operational PV power. DG solar accounted for most of that capacity, with more than 4 GW installed. Brazil’s government also recently set a target of 45% renewables by 2050.

To help expand Brazil’s MLPE use, APsystems and Ecori plan on maintaining their partnership. Martins said the companies’ six-year relationship is “just the beginning of a very long journey together.”

The future

APsystems already has some new solutions under development. Xianyu said the company will launch a new generation of microinverters for both residential and large roofs based on an entirely new architecture in a few months.

New APsystems dual microinverter, the DS3

 

For example, Xianyu mentioned the new APsystems dual microinverter, the DS3. He said this third-generation dual microinverter is the result of unprecedented integration work that has enabled APsystems to reduce the number of components by 20%. It will offer unprecedented power density, delivering 50% more AC output power than the YC600, and will be “fully compatible with our current single-phase dual and quad, the YC600 & QS1, for installation on the same roof.”

After celebrating the company’s 10-year anniversary, reaching milestones, and strengthening key partnerships in emerging markets, APsystems is excited about the future.

“APsystems is now well recognized for its leadership in multi-module microinverter solutions, bringing innovative products to market that are built to last,” said Xianyu. “This is the DNA of the company and will continue to be.”

APsystems Joins Solar and Storage DigiCon conference – Australia live day coming up on Dec 15th !

APsystems is delighted to join the Solar and Storage DigiCon conference : the first digital trade fair with regular live conference program for the solar pv & energy storage industry!
Experience our virtual booth and access the latest products information including datasheets, brochures, videos and more..

 

Register here 

 Join the Australia Live day on December 15.

 Join us live at DigiCon, and listen to some of the key players from Down Under highlight the most promising trends for solar and storage and provide concrete recommendations for players of the sectors today.

Session 1 | The Solar Future Australia – Trends, Opportunities & Emerging Business Models

Forecasts for the Australian solar market are excellent and the country can rely on its very good natural energy resources for a long time to come. In the first session, the latest developments will be reviewed and regional experts will share their perspectives on upcoming trends and challenges.

More information is available HERE

 

“The DS3, a completely new architecture”- Interview from Dr LUO, CTO & co-founder of APsystems

 

APsystems co-founder and CTO, based in Cupertino, Silicon Valley, unveils the technological background of the most powerful microinverter on the market: the NEW dual DS3 (for Dual, Single-phase, 3rd generation) coming in Q1 2021.

Dr. Luo, APsystems is planning to launch its 3rd generation dual Microinverter very soon, how does this product differ from previous generations?

“It has now been a decade since we gradually established ourselves as the global benchmark in multi-module microinverters for the solar industry. Our expertise in power electronics allows us to design and manufacture a wide range of MLPE solutions (Module-Level Power Electronics) on top of our well-known range of microinverters. Regarding our dual microinverter range, the 1st generation with the YC500, launched eight years ago, has received a phenomenal reception in the world market and has strongly reinforced our idea that a dual microinverter architecture solution with 2 MPPT connecting two modules makes complete sense. Since then, we have not stopped innovating, year after year, with ever more powerful, integrated and intelligent products. In 2017, we launched the 2nd generation of single-phase dual, the YC600, which, beyond superior AC output power, incorporates Zigbee communications with all the competitive advantages it brings in terms of signal speed, robustness and ease of installation for professionals. The company has also chosen to integrate this communication technology across the entire product range.

 

At this stage, we also needed to make our products interactive with power grids. A feature commonly referred to as RPC (Reactive Power Control) or reactive power factor management, has been increasingly requested by utilities to better manage photovoltaic power spikes in the grid and facilitate its integration. This is a requirement, already in force in countries like Germany, US, Italy or Australia, which is gradually spreading all over the world. The DS3, our 3rd generation dual microinverter planned to be released on the market at the end of Q1 2021, not only brings together all the innovations from previous generations but goes even further.


First, it relies on a completely new architecture that will provide 50% higher power, and higher efficiency. We have also added enhanced communication security leveraging Texas Instruments’ Zigbee module, a global benchmark in this field, onto which we are adding a cybersecurity tool called Karamba to make code programming completely inviolable and all PV production data processed by our customers fully secured. In terms of form factor design and microinverter materials utilized for the casing, we have also opted for an innovative, optimized, compact design combining cast aluminum on the front and rugged polymer on the back making the product lighter while maximizing its power. All components are still encapsulated with silicone to reduce stress on the electronic components, facilitate thermal dissipation, enhance waterproof properties and ensure maximum reliability of the system via rigorous testing methods including 20 000 hours of accelerated life testing and many other procedures which are part of our ISO 9001 certification process. This generation is also a result of unprecedented integration work that has enabled us to reduce the number of components by 20% while delivering 50% more AC output power than the YC600, our current generation. It is a technical achievement and an industry 1st to reach a record 900 W AC power output on a dual microinverter! With 97% efficiency and a wide range of MPPT operating voltage, the DS3 will be able to connect two modules up to 650 Wc each. It supports all utility requirements for remote control and programming. It also has improved remote upgrade functions to ensure any future requirements. The product is currently going through all safety certifications and compliances. The DS3 is a groundbreaking, grid interactive product that will democratize even further the use of microinverters in the residential and multi-residential solar market segments.”

New APsystems project references video available

Did You Know? APsystems products are installed both in residential and C&I , powering the next generation of Zero-Energy Buildings all over the world.  From Europe to Australia, the USA or China, APsystems serves solar professionals in more than 80 countries.

See how APsystems and its installation partners contribute to a more sustainable energy future through solar powered buildings across the world. You can also download our project references PDF overview here.

 

 

Powerful innovations for a sustainable future

World Environment Day  has been celebrated on June 5  to encourage awareness and environmental protection. According to the United Nations, “the celebration of this day provides us with an opportunity to broaden the basis for an enlightened opinion and responsible conduct by individuals, enterprises, and communities in preserving and enhancing the environment.” The day is celebrated by engaging governments, businesses, celebrities and citizens to focus their efforts on a pressing environmental issue and broaden the basis for an enlightened opinion and responsible conduct also for individuals, enterprises and communities in preserving and enhancing the environment.

The theme of World Environment 2020 is ‘celebrating biodiversity’ — a concern that is urgent and existential. The current environmental could be considered of a warning that we must heel collectively or must fundamentally rethink our relationship with the living world, with natural ecosystems and their biodiversity. It is about time to control our lifestyle and contribute to saving the environment by shunning use of plastic, growing trees and using alternative sources of energy. Most of the electricity used by us is generated fossil fuels emits greenhouse gases carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) causing pollution. These harmful gases also contribute depletion of the ozone layer. Therefore we must turn to solar, wind, or geothermal energy. Installing a solar energy system is an incredibly beneficial financial decision for your home or business, it can also contribute substantially to the wellness of the environment and to public health as a whole.

By using solar, you can reduce demand for fossil fuels, limit greenhouse gas emissions, shrink your carbon footprint or decrease the risk of health issues.  APsystems has given a massive push towards renewable energy generation. All over the world, there are over 100.000 installations with APsystems Microinverters having generated more than 1.2 TW of solar energy by now and resulting in more than 226.000 tons of carbon offset.

See how APsystems contributes to a more sustainable and healthy future on the video.