Enphase Energy has begun shipping its IQ microinverter system. Introduced at Solar Power International in September 2016, the sixth generation of Enphase microinverters builds on more than ten years of innovation to offer unmatched simplicity, reliability and ease of installation.
“Enphase continues to be the innovation leader in solar with the delivery of our IQ Microinverter System which dramatically simplifies the solar installation,” said Paul Nahi, president and CEO of Enphase Energy. “Our IQ technology will also enable the introduction of Enphase Energized AC Modules which will be the ultimate game changer for the residential solar industry.”
Like all previous generations of their technology, the Enphase IQ System is a complete AC solution that uses no high voltage DC, providing the safest possible solar solution for homeowners. The system is also designed and manufactured for reliability, assured by over one million hours of power-on testing.
Lighter and easier to install, IQ microinverters use a unique double insulated, non-corroding polymeric enclosure that contributes to a design that is 30 percent lighter than Enphase S-Series microinverters. The new two-wire Q Cable that is part of the IQ Microinverter System uses half the copper and is 50 percent lighter than the previous generation of Enphase trunk cables.
IQ Microinverters meet or exceed regulatory requirements set by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and individual states. For example, Enphase is certified compliant with NEC 2014 and 2017 rapid shutdown requirements. Unlike string inverters, this capability is built-in, with no additional equipment necessary. In addition, Enphase IQ microinverters comply with requirements for distributed solar on utility networks included in Rule 21 in California and Hawaiian Electric Company Rule 14H, such as power factor, voltage and frequency ride-through requirements.
Addressing the growing market demand for high-powered modules, the Enphase IQ 6+ Micro supports both 60- and 72-cell modules up to 400 W DC and is now shipping in the U.S. Solar installers should contact an Enphase Authorized Distributor for details. The Enphase IQ 6 Micro which pairs with modules up to 330 W DC will become available in the U.S. this summer.
Also coming to market this summer, IQ Microinverters will be integrated into Enphase Energized AC Modules with IQ from LG, SolarWorld and Jinko Solar. AC modules will further simplify residential solar installations by streamlining the supply chain, reducing capital costs, and expediting the design and installation processes.
News item from Enphase