Nextronex was issued Patent Number 8,963,373 on February 24, 2015, elevating the Nextronex unique solar inverter configuration, Distributed Architecture. This patent issuance, named “Grid Tie Solar System and a Method,” recognizes Nextronex’ innovation and reinforces the uniqueness of its solar inverter system.
The Nextronex inverter system connects multiple inverters, each rated at 160 kW to 300 kW, on a common DC bus. The inverters operate in a master-slave relationship. Each day the Smart Controller selects the master inverter based on cumulative run-time. This inverter comes on first and turns off last. Additional inverters are brought on as warranted by the insolation. This system turns on earlier in the day and shuts off later than other systems. It produces superior low light efficiencies. System availability is virtually 100% because if one inverter is down for any reason the remaining inverters can process the power produced by the entire array. Finally, the inverter lives are extended because they each have less runtime in the master-slave system.
“Distributed Architecture combines the benefits of central and string inverters,” states Jay Troger, Nextronex Chief Executive Officer. “You get the simplicity of a central inverter system with even higher system availability than with string inverters.”
Nextronex systems are available in a factory commissioned, plug-and-play Power Podium, which includes all equipment from the combiner boxes through medium voltage AC interconnection. A full-function internet accessible monitoring system is included with the system.
Troger further noted that, “Nextronex is committed to vigorous ongoing technology development, as evidenced by our two pending patents applications. The first relates to a lower capital cost, higher efficiency integration of PV with battery storage. The second involves a technology that will help displace diesel generators with PV in situations where grid interconnection of the PV is problematical.”