42 teams from around the world took off at the start line at State Square in Darwin, Australia on October 18, to compete in the 2015 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge! Cruising in spectacular solar cars, the teams raced 3000km south to be the first to reach the official finish line in Adelaide.

Photo credits: World Solar Challenge

The City of Adelaide Finish Line event took place at Victoria Square with free activities that included:
·    Line up and display of all competing vehicles
·    Model solar car and solar boat finals
·    Schools program
·    Build your own model solar car
·    Tesla Cruiser class judging
·    Imagination playground
·    World Solar Challenge street parade
·    Interactive displays

Schneider Electric was also present at the main event village with an exciting competition for a chance to win a $10,000 solar system, featuring the Conext SW inverter/charger.

We were proud to sponsor the 2015 Challenger Class again this year! Congratulations to Nuon Solar Team for their first place win, and all the teams that participated in this year’s challenge!

Check out some of the highlights from this year’s memorable event:

It’s been neck and neck on Day 2 of the @WorldSolarChlg, as the race nears Alice springs on its journey to Adelaide. http://t.co/x7VIAPcrkh

— 7 News Adelaide (@7NewsAdelaide) October 19, 2015

Update from the Cruiser Class, with @SolarEHV aiming for a solar record today – 1,500kms on a single charge. #WSC15 pic.twitter.com/FdElnM9Pvz — World SolarChallenge (@WorldSolarChlg) October 20, 2015

Welcome to #Adelaide our 5th place Schneider Electric Challenger Class team, @solarteam_be. Congratulations! #WSC15 pic.twitter.com/fmSLESxIQY

— World SolarChallenge (@WorldSolarChlg) October 22, 2015

Kids learn all things #solarcars with @teamarrowracing in #VicSquare #WSC15 pic.twitter.com/58sYgleeX1 — World SolarChallenge (@WorldSolarChlg) October 23, 2015

The Canadians have arrived after their maiden #WSC15 adventure, congratulations @blueskysolar77! pic.twitter.com/882p3Tk4So

— World SolarChallenge (@WorldSolarChlg) October 23, 2015

Welcome to #Adelaide, from Japan, NIT Solar Car team in the Schneider Electric Challenger Class #WSC15 pic.twitter.com/yncYGRnM8T — World SolarChallenge (@WorldSolarChlg) October 23, 2015

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Burnaby, Canada, November 2, 2015 — Schneider Electric™ Solar Business, a global leader in solutions for the solar industry, is pleased to announce that the Conext XW+ 6848NA meets Hawaiian Electric Companies’ (HECO) rigorous “ultra-fast trip” Transient Over-Voltage (TrOV-2) and Frequency and Voltage Ride-Through (FVRT) requirements and is approved for both grid-tied net metered PV systems and grid connected zero export (self-consumption) PV systems.

The Conext XW+ 6848NA battery-based inverter/charger is now listed on HECO’s qualified inverter manufacturer and equipment list.

”Hawaii has the highest concentration of solar in the United States and is the model for what we are likely going to adopt in the rest of the United States in the not so distant future,” said David Norman, Director of Business Development, North America. “PV systems with energy storage are the present and the future in Hawaii. Schneider Electric has over 25 years of experience developing cutting edge inverter solutions that utilize energy storage, and our Conext XW+ system is the most advanced and easy to use hybrid system on the market. We are very pleased that we are certified by HECO for use in Hawaii and excited to play our part in improving the reliability of the utility grid and helping Hawaii reach their goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045.”

To learn more about Schneider Electric’s solar products and solutions, visit http://solar.schneider-electric.com.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is the global specialist in energy management and automation. With revenues of €25 billion in FY2014, our 170,000 employees serve customers in over 100 countries, helping them to manage their energy and process in ways that are safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable. From the simplest of switches to complex operational systems, our technology, software and services improve the way our customers manage and automate their operations. Our connected technologies will reshape industries, transform cities and enrich lives.

At Schneider Electric, we call this Life Is On. www.schneider-electric.com

Schneider Electric, the Schneider Electric logo and Conext are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Schneider Electric group of companies.

The post Schneider Electric’s Conext XW+ 6848NA Meets HECO’s TrOV-2 and Frequency and Voltage Ride-Through Requirements appeared first on SE Solar.

In several countries such as Australia and Spain, residential homeowners are either not allowed or not incentivized to export excess PV energy generated from their rooftop grid-tie PV installations back to the grid. The new “Zero Export Support” feature of Conext ComBox will enable homeowners to still benefit from the self-consumption of PV energy generated from their rooftop installations while ensuring that the excess PV energy generated, if any, will be curtailed to avoid any export to the grid.

Conext ComBox firmware: Version: 03.01 Build 746 is now available

The new firmware release for Conext ComBox has been upgraded with zero export support along with extended fault reporting. The Conext ComBox is now compatible with even more energy meters and multiple BMS/SCADA systems. Here are some of the new major features:

Support for multiple Modbus TCP clients
Conext ComBox can now support up to ten Modbus TCP clients simultaneously. This feature allows multiple systems (e.g. BMS and SCADA) to query the ComBox simultaneously for information on performance of the installation.

Compatibility with more energy meters
In addition to the PM8xx series, you now have the flexibility to choose any one of the EM35xx, iEM32xx and PM5xxx series of meters from Schneider Electric to measure your system’s performance.

In addition, this firmware release brings new upgrades for Conext RL system owners. The new Zero Export Support feature is designed to work in installations using a single Conext RL inverter in either of two applications:

1) Residential grid-tie and
2) Residential grid-tie with AC coupling using Conext XW+

Ground fault reporting for the Conext RL is now available
To comply with regulations in Australia, now you can configure your Conext ComBox to initiate an alarm when a ground fault occurs on your inverter. Conext ComBox supports two mechanisms to initiate an alarm:

– send an e-mail notification every 30/60/72 minutes until the ground fault is cleared
– activate the dry contact relay on ComBox when ground fault occurs

Visit the Conext ComBox product page to download this release.

The post Enabling homeowners to reap the benefits of their rooftop installation appeared first on SE Solar.

In rural and underserviced areas throughout Southern Africa, where there is no access to the grid, solar powered containerised systems have proved to be a turning point in community improvement and increasing quality of life. These modular systems include solar schools, medical and dental clinics, and mobile police stations.

Top left to right: Exterior view of a solar powered containerised school; interior view of a solar school with adult education taking place
Bottom left to right: Classroom education taking place inside a large solar school; Conext XW+ system fully integrated within Telenetix’s containerised solution

The modular infrastructure of these systems are based upon shipping containers, and they are engineered into impressive community spaces that provide electricity and immediate access to technology. The impact of bringing containerised systems into local communities is tremendous. It acts as an enabler of positive social change such as community safety, providing comfortable learning environments, and convenience to local services.

Twenty five solar schools have already been deployed, and twenty one mobile police stations are expected to be deployed by the end of 2016.

Read our full case study to learn more about this project, and how Schneider Electric’s Conext XW+ off-grid DC-coupled system is fully integrated within Telenetix’s highly sophisticated containerised systems.

The post Connecting and illuminating communities for the future appeared first on SE Solar.

Schneider Electric will be discontinuing the production of its 600V DC product line GT250-480/600 and GT500-480/600. We would like to offer existing customers the opportunity to make one last purchase from this product line. Orders will be filled on a first‐come basis.

Please download the PDF below for complete details on the discontinuation and final offer:

End of Life Announcement-GT250_GT500

The post Time to Say Goodbye appeared first on SE Solar.

In 2014, the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and the state government of Lagos joined forces to bring forth an ambitious project, Lagos Solar, to power public institutions by means of solar PV systems. Under the DFID tender and Lagos Solar, hundreds of schools along with almost a dozen Primary HealthCare Centers (PHC) throughout rural Lagos will be electrified by solar.

Nigeria is well-known for its vulnerabilities to widespread grid outages and unstable power. With a population of close to 175 million, the alarming reality of mass genset dependency or the sheer lack of access to the grid mean that tens of millions are far from a clean and stable source of power. The state of Lagos is the second most populous city in Nigeria, and is still rapidly growing. Many people reside in rural areas, and do not have any power supply at all. These populations suffer from a higher risk of poor health, whilst paying a large part of their livelihood for harmful and polluting energy.

To bring this electrification initiative into fruition, African Energy brought on highly trained local Nigerian partners to lead this project with the Lagos State Electricity Board (LSEB) throughout 170 sites. Schneider Electric’s Conext family of solar and battery-based inverter/charger system with online monitoring was selected as the most reliable technology for this initiative.

FStudents enjoying the shade under a solar powered containerised system that houses a solar and storage solution

Read our full case study to discover how Lagos is setting an electrifying example of how sustainable solar power is changing lives at this very moment. Reliable access to clean power is no longer a dream, and this project has paved the way towards a model of sustainability for the rest of Africa to follow.

The post Nigeria’s blueprint for a brighter tomorrow appeared first on SE Solar.

This time last year, we announced that we were working with Krinner and Eiffage on the largest PV power plant in Europe, developed by Neoen. We are excited to announce that the power plant is now fully complete, and connected to the grid. The project was completed 5 weeks ahead of schedule. The site spans 250 hectares, and is located near Bordeaux. The power plant will produce a total peak capacity of 300 MW, enough energy to supply the daytime consumption of Bordeaux’s entire population.

Schneider Electric was responsible for the entire electrical conversion chain, and installed and commissioned 200 PV Box RT units, each containing two Conext Core XC central inverters, turnkey high voltage substation, and monitoring and control using Conext Control (with a dedicated Power Plant Controller). Schneider Electric is also providing a long term service contract. Thanks to everyone involved who made the installation and commissioning a success!

The post Largest power plant in Europe now connected to the grid! appeared first on SE Solar.

In Singapore, 80% of the population resides in public property developments managed by the Housing and Development Board (HDB). The HDB recently awarded its largest solar leasing tender of 38 MegaWatt-peak (MWp) to date to Sunseap Group Pte Ltd. Under the tender, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems will be installed at approximately 680 HDB residential blocks in four towns as well three HDB-owned commercial and industrial properties. Due to land scarcity, it is a challenge to develop large ground-mounted PV power plants to generate solar energy to power the Lion City. As such, urban rooftops are most ideal for this deployment.

Image Caption: Overlooking a HDB residential rooftop solar PV installation

The launch of this tender demonstrates the government’s commitment to improve sustainability practices and promote smart living, and to achieve 350 MWp of solar by 2020, which is rougly 5% of Singapore’s projected peak energy consumption.

With a commitment to helping our customers secure their PV investments and maximizing ROI, the Conext CL Optimum+ grid-tie inverter proved to be the ideal choice for this decentralized commercial solution for Sunseap, offering maximum flexibility, productivity, and reliability.

Image Caption: Rooftop installation featuring the Conext CL25000E Optimum+ inverter

Read our full case study to learn more about this project, and why the Conext CL Optimum+ grid-tie inverter was chosen for this project.

The post Singapore raises the bar for sustainable living appeared first on SE Solar.

Boulder, CO, USA and Burnaby, BC, Canada, January 12, 2016 — Schneider Electric™, a global leader in solutions for the solar power conversion chain, has designated AlsoEnergy as the preferred monitoring provider to pair with their Conext™ CL series of three-phase string inverters. AlsoEnergy has been selected for their ability to deliver the best user experience with these inverters: seamless integration of technologies, along with proven results for overall system design, deployment, and Operations and Maintenance (O&M).

Schneider Electric relies on strong and competent partners to deliver top performance for integrated power systems. “As a global specialist in energy management, Schneider Electric understands customers choosing Conext CL series inverters expect reliable, high efficiency performance and increased ROI” says David Norman, Director of Business Development for Solar Business, North America. “Recognizing the importance of a robust monitoring solution to achieve our customers’ goals, we confidently recommend AlsoEnergy as our trusted partner to provide superior technology, support, and solar expertise.”

AlsoEnergy is a leader among independent solar monitoring providers, with over 4 GW of power monitored at more than 12,000 independent locations worldwide. “We are honored to be named as a preferred partner by a major industry player such as Schneider Electric” says AlsoEnergy CEO Robert Schaefer. “We are particularly pleased to work with Conext CL tier I inverters, a product line that is optimized for today’s decentralized solar power projects.”
AlsoEnergy serves a wide range of solar power projects with two industry-leading software products for PV performance evaluation (PowerTrack and DECK Monitoring). With a host of customizable display-and-analysis options for aggregated portfolio data, AlsoEnergy solutions are a perfect fit for the large decentralized systems that will choose the Conext CL Series. Together these technologies will help customers optimize yield and reduce maintenance costs, so projects can achieve increased ROI.

Schneider Electric has leveraged 180 years of energy management experience to create the Conext CL Series. Built for decentralized architecture, Conext CL inverters are the ideal solution for commercial buildings, carports, and decentralized power plants. Optimized modular design enables faster installations and easy scaling for systems of all sizes. Users benefit from minimal system downtime due to short replacement lead time and ease of servicing. This line of inverters offers full grid support features and all the system capabilities of the Schneider Electric product line. The Conext CL Series is now available in 18 kW and 20 kW for North America. To learn more about Schneider Electric’s solar products and solutions, visit http://solar.schneider-electric.com.

About AlsoEnergy
AlsoEnergy provides monitoring and SCADA solutions for solar PV and other energy systems. AlsoEnergy empowers the business of renewable energy with software that clarifies the relation between system performance and financial returns, and that streamlines asset management tasks to save time and money. As an independent monitoring provider, AlsoEnergy is uniquely well positioned to provide fully compatible service for diverse portfolios, and to integrate with evolving technology in the years to come. For more information, visit: www.alsoenergy.com

About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is the global specialist in energy management and automation. With revenues of €25 billion in FY2014, our 170,000 employees serve customers in over 100 countries, helping them to manage their energy and process in ways that are safe, reliable, efficient, and sustainable. From the simplest of switches to complex operational systems, our technology, software, and services improve the way our customers manage and automate their operations. Our connected technologies will reshape industries, transform cities, and enrich lives.

At Schneider Electric, we call this Life Is On. www.schneider-electric.com

Schneider Electric, the Schneider Electric logo and Conext are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Schneider Electric group of companies.

The post Schneider Electric Selects AlsoEnergy as Preferred Monitoring Provider for Conext CL Series Power Inverters appeared first on SE Solar.

In January, over a dozen distributors and system integrators gathered for a two-day off-grid workshop, focused on the Conext XW+ and Conext SW.

“There is a huge potential for solar off grid systems in Thailand, whether it is for self-consumption or rural electrification,” said Micko Lee, Sales Application Engineer, Commercial and Residential Line of Business. “Distributors and system integrators in Thailand are keen on learning more about which inverter/charger is right for them, understanding the function of each balance of system (BOS) component, and how to integrate single or three phase systems.”

The workshop delivered theory on day one, and covered topics such as Conext XW+ operating modes, multi-cluster guide, Xanbus network sizing guide, system settings, and more.

Equipped with technical foundation from the first session, attendees applied their knowledge through hands-on training on day two. It was a great way to supplement the knowledge they had gained, and further understand system configurations.

Stay tuned as we announce more training coming in 2016!

The post 2016 off-grid training kicks off in Thailand appeared first on SE Solar.

Burnaby, Canada, April 5, 2016 — Schneider Electric™ Solar Business, a global leader in solutions for the solar and energy storage industry, today announced it has collaborated with Microsoft Corp. in the development of cloud-based solutions for monitoring photovoltaic (PV) power plants.

Schneider Electric will expand its existing work with Microsoft as a Global Independent Software Vendor (ISV) to include Azure IoT technologies that enable innovations in solar monitoring solutions. By utilizing the more secure, remote connectivity of the Microsoft Azure cloud platform, Schneider Electric’s ConextTM Advisor accesses solar power plant performance data and provides high-level analysis via the cloud. Delivering detailed KPIs, Conext Advisor improves visibility into plant performance and enables faster, better-informed decision-making.

Conext Advisor allows plant owners, managers and investors to supervise their solar systems’ operations in real time. Its analytics can be used to monitor performance metrics to identify site factors such as shading, soiling or signs of aging components, and proactively identify maintenance, servicing and refurbishing needs. Conext Advisor is part of Schneider Electric’s comprehensive suite of control supervision, performance analytics, and forecasting modules that help optimize performance, minimize operating expenses and enhance solar energy generation.

Said Arnaud Cantin, VP of the Power Plants line of business for Schneider Electric Solar and Energy Storage. “The key to Conext Advisor is that it is an advisor: it does not stop at data acquisition, display and reporting; through the power of analytics in the cloud, it interprets data and provides recommendations that enable customers to take action and significantly improve the performance of their assets.”

Schneider Electric will continue to accelerate solar innovations with Microsoft and the power of the Internet of Things. To learn more about Schneider Electric’s solar products and solutions, visit http://solar.schneider-electric.com

About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is the global specialist in energy management and automation. With revenues of €25 billion in FY2014, our 170,000 employees serve customers in over 100 countries, helping them to manage their energy and process in ways that are safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable. From the simplest of switches to complex operational systems, our technology, software and services improve the way our customers manage and automate their operations. Our connected technologies will reshape industries, transform cities and enrich lives.

At Schneider Electric, we call this Life Is On. www.schneider-electric.com

Schneider Electric, the Schneider Electric logo and Conext are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Schneider Electric group of companies.

The post Schneider Electric to collaborate with Microsoft on cloud-based monitoring solutions for utility-scale solar power plants appeared first on SE Solar.

Munich, June 22^nd, 2016 — Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management and automation and a global leader in solutions for  solar and energy storage power conversion chain, today announced the launch of a PV Hybrid solution, developed in cooperation with DEIF, a global leader in diesel controllers.

Flexible PV Hybrid solution introduced at Intersolar Europe 2016

Designed for grid-tied and off-grid power generation, the PV Hybrid solution combines efficient, reliable diesel generation with clean, low-cost solar power. This flexible solution enables operators to use energy intelligently—and it can be customized to build cost-effective hybrid power solutions that meet a range of needs.

“The PV Hybrid solution responds to a real, and growing need in the market,” said Xavier Datin, VP of the Commercial and Residential Solar Line of Business, at Schneider Electric. “From remote work sites to commercial institutions, there are many power plants where diesel generators are in operation for primary or backup power—but the operators want to add PV power for its financial and environmental advantages.”

A combination of solar and diesel solution to ensure reliability to the grid while reducing overall carbon footprint

The modular, adaptable PV Hybrid solution can be applied to new and retrofit applications. The combination of diesel and solar power maintains a stable, reliable power grid while reducing fuel dependency and limiting GHG emissions. In some applications, where permitted, operators will be able to earn revenue by selling surplus solar-generated power back to the grid.

The solution features Schneider Electric Conext™ CL inverters, with controllers transducers and accessories from DEIF. Said Datin, “We are proud to bring this to market in cooperation with DEIF. This solution truly represents the best of both worlds: DEIF is renowned for its’ advanced, efficient diesel power control systems, while Schneider Electric is known for innovation and excellence in solar. As both companies have been in the power business for decades, customers can rely on them for global, long-term support.”

To learn more about the PV Hybrid solution, visit the Schneider Electric Solar Business booth: B2.110

To learn more about Schneider Electric solar products and solutions visit solar.schneider-electric.com.

Schneider Electric, the Schneider Electric logo and Conext are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Schneider Electric group of companies

About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is the global specialist in energy management and automation. With revenues of ~€27 billion in FY2015, our 160,000+ employees serve customers in over 100 countries, helping them to manage their energy and process in ways that are safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable. From the simplest of switches to complex operational systems, our technology, software and services improve the way our customers manage and automate their operations. Our connected technologies reshape industries, transform cities and enrich lives. At Schneider Electric, we call this Life Is On.

About DEIF
Power in Control
Established in Denmark in 1933, today DEIF is a global supplier of green, safe and reliable control solutions for decentralized power production, marine & offshore, PV Hybrid and wind turbines. The DEIF Group has sales offices, competence centers and training facilities in seventeen key markets in Europe, Asia and the Americas, and distributors in an additional 35 countries and territories.

The post Schneider Electric launches PV Hybrid solution in cooperation with DEIF appeared first on SE Solar.

Munich, June 22, 2016 — Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management and automation and a global leader in solutions for solar solutions and energy storage power conversion chain, today announced the launch of the Conext SmartGen™ 1,500 volt utility-scale power conversion system.

SmartGen is the new paradigm for large-scale renewable power installations. The system provides greater efficiency in power generation with lower short-term and long-term costs, and far longer service life.

The SmartGen solution will be a major feature at the Schneider Electric booth at Intersolar Europe 2016.

Leveraging the Internet of Things

“The SmartGen sits at the convergence of power and communication technologies,” Arnaud Cantin, VP of the Power Plants and Energy Storage Line of Business at Schneider Electric. “The SmartGen records and stores its own operation and service history, has self-diagnostic capabilities and can send proactive service warnings and fault reports through the cloud. It communicates with a suite of solutions that we call the Power EcoSystem™, to provide centralized control, monitoring, analytics and predictive maintenance, for optimal performance and maximum value for your solar investment.”

Weatherproof housing, robust components and internal climate controls

The SmartGen inverter is housed in a water and dust sealed corrosion-proof enclosure, and is designed to deliver up to 2MVA of power for 30 years, even in the world’s most demanding environments. Its wide operation range, combined with higher generation efficiency and unprecedented service life maximize its energy generation lifetime. Its first—and only—major service is not required before 15 years in worst case conditions.

Lower CAPEX, lower OPEX + higher generation efficiency = faster, higher ROI

The SmartGen’s startup capital costs are lower: it’s a 1,500 VDC system, which means more power density, fewer inverter stations (and associated cabling and components) for utility scale power.

The “self-commissioning” functionalities and the “grid simulation” get the system up and online faster, at lower cost.

Operating costs are also lower: self-diagnosing and self-reporting avoid unnecessary service calls, provides data analytics based on the Power Cloud, which enables predictive maintenance such as the ability to trigger maintenance actions only when necessary.

The SmartGen is a True Design for Service™ system, for faster, easier service—most service operations are complete in less than one hour.

The system is also designed to provide maximum revenue: combining a weighted conversion efficiency of 98.4%, and low power consumption, with an unprecedented service life of 30 years, the SmartGen delivers more GWh in all temperature or light conditions.

“For large-scale renewable power, there’s never been a power conversion solution like the SmartGen. With cloud connectivity enabling predictive maintenance and smart diagnostics, it is simply the best and most secure solar investment you can make,” says Cantin.

To learn more about the Conext SmartGen inverter, visit the Schneider Electric Solar Business booth: B2.110

To learn more about Schneider Electric solar products and solutions visit solar.schneider-electric.com.

About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is the global specialist in energy management and automation. With revenues of ~€27 billion in FY2015, our 160,000+ employees serve customers in over 100 countries, helping them to manage their energy and process in ways that are safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable. From the simplest of switches to complex operational systems, our technology, software and services improve the way our customers manage and automate their operations. Our connected technologies reshape industries, transform cities and enrich lives. At Schneider Electric, we call this Life Is On.

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The post Schneider Electric launches Conext SmartGen™: Intelligent, Cloud-Connected Solution for Utility-Scale Renewable Power appeared first on SE Solar.

Munich, June 22^nd, 2016 — Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management and automation and a global leader in solutions for solar solutions and energy storage power conversion chain, is bringing truly game-changing innovations to Intersolar 2016.

New offerings for utility-scale, and commercial, power generation

As well as a comprehensive lineup of solutions for all scales and scopes of global renewable generation, Schneider Electric is launching the Conext SmartGen™ an intelligent, cloud-connected 1500 volt utility scale power conversion system, with a suite of supporting software solutions called the Power EcoSystem™, including the cloud-based monitoring and control solution Conext™ Advisor 2. Also launching is a new PV Hybrid solution, developed in cooperation with DEIF, and the Conext™ CL-60, a 60 kW inverter with the highest power density for the large commercial and utility scale solar market.

“This ground-breaking lineup reflects Schneider Electric’s drive to lead the solar industry at a time of fundamental, transformative change”, says Laurent Bataille, EVP, EcoBuilding and Solar Division, Schneider Electric, “the companies investing in renewable energy are displaying increasingly mature behaviors with a stronger focus on total cost of ownership and an appetite for more secure returns. They expect Schneider Electric to play a key role in bringing them the combination of technology and global capabilities to keep their assets productive over a longer operating life.”

Leveraging cloud connectivity and the Internet of Things to optimize utility-scale generation:  Conext SmartGen™ inverter and the Power EcoSystem™

The flagship product launch is the utility-scale SmartGen™ Power System. The SmartGen™ is the new paradigm for large-scale renewable power installations. It records and stores its own operation and service history, has self-diagnostic capabilities and can send proactive service warnings and reports to the cloud. Housed in a water- and dust-sealed corrosion-proof enclosure, it is designed to deliver up to 2MVA of power for 30 years. Its wide operation range, combined with best-in-class efficiency and unprecedented service life maximize its energy generation lifetime. Says Arnaud Cantin, VP of the Solar Power Plants & Energy Storage Line of Business, “For large-scale renewable power, there’s never been a power conversion solution like the SmartGen™. With cloud connectivity to the Power EcoSystem™, 30-year reliability and best-in-class efficiency, it is simply the best and most secure solar investment you can make.”

The SmartGen™ inverter is the center of the Power EcoSystem™, a suite of software solutions including Conext™ Viewer, the Conext™ Power Cloud, Conext™ Advisor 2, and the Power Plant Controller. Leveraging the power of the Internet of Things, “These solutions empower remote operators, service staff and financial analysts, with centralized control, monitoring, data analytics and predictive maintenance, for optimal performance and maximum ROI,” Cantin stated.

Conext™ Advisor 2 accesses solar power plant performance data, delivers detailed KPIs, provides high-level analysis, and enables faster, better-informed decision making by utilizing Schneider Electric EcoStruxure architecture, powered by Microsoft Azure using the Azure IoT Suite.

In cooperation with DEIF: new green options with PV Hybrid solution

Designed for grid-tied and off-grid power generation, the PV Hybrid solution combines efficient, reliable diesel generation with clean, low-cost solar power. The PV Hybrid solution responds to a real and growing need in the market: from remote work sites to commercial institutions, there are many diesel-based power plants, for primary and backup power, where the operators want to add PV power for its financial and environmental advantages.

Developed in cooperation with DEIF, this solution represents the best of both worlds: DEIF is renowned for advanced, efficient diesel power control systems, while Schneider Electric is known for innovation and excellence in solar power conversion. This flexible solution features Schneider Electric Conext™ CL inverters, with controllers transducers and accessories from DEIF.

Conext™ CL-60 String Inverter: cost-effective, high-efficiency distributed power generation for commercial solar applications

At 60kW, the new Conext™ CL-60 String Inverter is Schneider Electric’s most powerful inverter for commercial applications. It can turn a commercial rooftop or unused land into a profitable source of green, renewable energy. The Conext™ CL-60 is durable, easy to install and service, with an industry-leading maximum efficiency of 98.9%, it’s designed from the ground up to maximize revenue.

Nominated for an Intersolar Award for Innovation 2016

Schneider Electric is proud to announce our nomination for the Intersolar Award for Innovation 2016, in the Outstanding Solar Projects category. This prestigious award recognizes solar energy projects that set a particularly inspiring example of the global energy transformation. Our nominated project brought solar electricity and storage to 172 schools and 11 public health centers in rural Nigeria. We are honored to be recognized for our contribution to education, health and the overall standard of living in Nigeria.

To learn more, visit the Schneider Electric Solar solutions booth: B2.110

To learn more about Schneider Electric solar products and solutions visit solar.schneider-electric.com.

Schneider Electric, the Schneider Electric logo and Conext are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Schneider Electric group of companies

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is the global specialist in energy management and automation. With revenues of ~€27 billion in FY2015, our 160,000+ employees serve customers in over 100 countries, helping them to manage their energy and process in ways that are safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable. From the simplest of switches to complex operational systems, our technology, software and services improve the way our customers manage and automate their operations. Our connected technologies reshape industries, transform cities and enrich lives. At Schneider Electric, we call this Life Is On.

The post Schneider Electric at Intersolar 2016: Innovations in efficiency, cloud connectivity and collaboration lead new solutions lineup appeared first on SE Solar.

Munich, June 22, 2016 – Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management and automation and a global leader in solutions for solar solutions and energy storage power conversion chain, is the proud winner of the Intersolar Award for Innovation 2016, in the Outstanding Solar Projects category. This prestigious award recognizes solar energy projects that set a particularly inspiring example of the global energy transformation.

The winning project brought solar power and storage to 172 schools and 11 public health centers in rural Nigeria

We are honored to be recognized for our contribution to education, health and the overall standard of living in Nigeria.

A collaboration between Schneider Electric and African Energy

The project came about through an initiative of the UK Department for International Development and the state government of Lagos, Nigeria, who joined forces in an ambitious project to power public institutions with solar PV energy.

Nigeria is well known for its widespread grid outages and unstable power. In rural Nigeria, many communities depend on diesel generators, and pay a high price for harmful, polluting, unreliable power. Hospitals are often forced to close when power fails, and when life-support systems shut down, lives are lost.

To deliver on the project, the Lagos State Electricity Board (LSEB) engaged trained local Nigerian partners, and selected Schneider Electric’s Conext™ family of solar and battery-based inverter/charger systems with online monitoring. Said Lincoln Dahl, African Energy’s principal, “Conext™ XW+ models were selected for this project by LSEB because of their long-term record of reliability in Nigeria’s rugged market, as well as their patented technology to improve battery life in a solar and storage system.”

“This project is an inspiring example of global energy transformation”, says Xavier Datin, VP of the Commercial and Residential Solar Line of Business, at Schneider Electric. “Through collaboration of four partners we created a successful solution that scaled quickly for 183 sites within eight months.”

This project has benefited every community that has received a solar PV system. Water pumps now run for days; health centers can now deliver babies day and night—they no longer have to refer expecting mothers to more expensive hospitals, and the fuel costs for diesel generators have been eliminated. At schools across Lagos province, science and computer laboratories operate full time. Students can charge their tablets, phones, and personal night-lights, so they can now study into the evening hours.

In Lagos province, this project points the way to a model of sustainability.

To learn more, visit the Schneider Electric Solar solutions booth: B2.110

To learn more about Schneider Electric solar products and solutions visit solar.schneider-electric.com.

Schneider Electric, the Schneider Electric logo and Conext are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Schneider Electric group of companies

About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is the global specialist in energy management and automation. With revenues of ~€27 billion in FY2015, our 160,000+ employees serve customers in over 100 countries, helping them to manage their energy and process in ways that are safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable. From the simplest of switches to complex operational systems, our technology, software and services improve the way our customers manage and automate their operations. Our connected technologies reshape industries, transform cities and enrich lives. At Schneider Electric, we call this Life Is On.

The post Schneider Electric awarded Intersolar Award for Outstanding category 2016 appeared first on SE Solar.

Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management and automation and a global leader in solar solutions and energy storage power conversion chain launched four game-changing solar solutions at Intersolar 2016.

In addition to a comprehensive lineup of solar solutions, Schneider Electric launched the Conext SmartGen™ an intelligent, cloud-connected 1500 volt utility scale power conversion system, with a suite of supporting software solutions called the Power EcoSystem™, including the cloud-based monitoring and control solution Conext™ Advisor 2. Also launched is the Conext™ CL-60, a 60 kW inverter with the highest power density for the large commercial and utility scale solar market and the PV Hybrid solution, developed in cooperation with DEIF.

Conext SmartGen™ inverter and the Power EcoSystem™: leveraging cloud connectivity and the Internet of Things to optimize utility-scale generation.

The SmartGen is the new paradigm for large-scale renewable power installations. The system provides greater efficiency in power generation with lower short-term and long-term costs, and far longer service life. The utility-scale SmartGen™ Power System records and stores its own operation and service history, has self-diagnostic capabilities and can send proactive service warnings and reports to the cloud

Conext™ Advisor 2: cloud-connected monitoring and control for renewable power plants.

The Conext™ Advisor 2 accesses solar power plant performance data, delivers detailed KPIs, provides high-level analysis, and enables faster, better-informed decision making by utilizing Schneider Electric EcoStruxure architecture, powered by Microsoft Azure using the Azure IoT Suite.

Conext™ CL-60 String Inverter: cost-effective, high-efficiency distributed power generation for commercial solar applications.

At 60kW, the new Conext™ CL-60 String Inverter is Schneider Electric’s most powerful inverter for commercial applications. The Conext™ CL-60 is durable, easy to install and service, with an industry-leading maximum efficiency of 98.9%, it’s designed from the ground up to maximize revenue.

PV Hybrid solution in cooperation with DEIF: a combination of solar and diesel solution to ensure reliability to the grid while reducing overall carbon footprint.

Designed for grid-tied and off-grid power generation, the PV Hybrid solution combines efficient, reliable diesel generation with clean, low-cost solar power. This flexible solution enables operators to use energy intelligently—and it can be customized to build cost-effective hybrid power solutions that meet a range of needs.

The post Top highlights of Schneider Electric at Intersolar Europe 2016 appeared first on SE Solar.

This year the Intersolar Award included a new category of Outstanding Solar Projects to recognize projects from around the world that make an exceptional contribution to driving forward the energy transition.

The winning project under the Outstanding category brought solar power and storage to 172 schools and 11 public health centers in the State of Lagos, in rural Nigeria.  We are honored to be recognized for our contribution to education, health and the overall standard of living in rural Nigeria.

What makes this project worthy of an award?

The Intersolar Europe jury was convinced by this project’s immense social impact. Technology, process, competency and fund-sourcing were combined to create a sustainable, plug and play system. It also proves that the technological solution with the Conext™ XW+ battery-based inverter solution pays off, and can stabilize security of supply in rural isolated areas. The technological innovation was to build a solution framework that was scalable, flexible, easy to deploy and maintain in the future.

The Lagos Solar project delivered 4.59 MW of sustainable solar power and the project was completed with the installation of 183 sites in only 8 months. Schneider Electric’s Conext XW+ battery-based inverters with the Conext Insight online monitoring was selected as the most reliable and robust technology for this off-grid project.

“Conext XW+ models were selected for this project because of their long-term record of reliability in Nigeria’s rugged market, as well their patented technology to improve battery life in a solar and storage system”, Lincoln Dahl – Principal of African Energy, one of our partners involved in the project.

Read our full case study to discover how Lagos is setting an electrifying example of how sustainable solar power is changing lives at this very moment. Reliable access to clean power is no longer a dream, and this project has paved the way towards a model of sustainability for the rest of Africa to follow.

Do you want to learn more about the project?

Watch the Video about Intersolar Award 2016 or learn more from the Press Release.

Video credits “Schneider Electric Makes the future Brighter” – Microsoft Cloud Platform. Read the full story here.

The post Intersolar Award 2016 goes to Schneider Electric solar off-grid project in rural Nigeria appeared first on SE Solar.

Far more than a new inverter, the Conext SmartGen™  is the new paradigm for large-scale renewable power installations. The SmartGen sits at the convergence of power and communication technologies by leveraging cloud connectivity and the Internet of Things to maximize the value of solar investments.

Built-in sensors and intelligence, and connectivity to the entire plant and to the Cloud open new opportunities for optimized performance. It records and stores its own operation and service history, has self-diagnostic capabilities and can send proactive service warnings and reports to the cloud.

The SmartGen communicates with a suite of supporting software applications in the Power EcoSystem™, including the Conext™ Advisor 2 to provide remote control, visibility, and analytics for owners, operators and service staff.  The Power EcoSystem™ utilizes Schneider Electric EcoStruxure architecture, powered by Microsoft Azure using the Azure IoT Suite.

The Conext SmartGen’s intelligence and cloud connectivity result in optimal power generation and faster, better-informed decision making for a secure solar investment.

See the SmartGen at Renewable Energy India Expo on September 7-9 at booth #3.85 Hall 3, and at Solar Power International (SPI) on September 12-15 at booth 2533.

Additional resources:

View Press Release to find out more.

View Data Sheet for technical specifications.

The post Introducing the Conext SmartGen – the cloud-connected inverter for utility-scale renewable power appeared first on SE Solar.

Schneider Electric welcomes a 60 kW solar inverter solution to the trusted Conext™ CL line. The Conext CL-60 offers cost-effective, high-efficiency distributed power generation for commercial and utility-scale solar applications.

This new inverter has several improvements to offer:

1. Powerful: The Conext CL-60 offers 10% more power than existing products in the Conext CL line.
2. Smarter: The inverter has sensors mounted on each string for optional monitoring of string current.
3. Flexible: It can be connected with up to 16 strings, with no separate wiring box required.
4. Cost-effective: Inbuilt DC switch and inbuilt AC switch (in North American model only).
5. Complete solution: The Conext CL-60 offers an all-in-one design, with pre-wired connectors for fast and easy installation. Fuses and mating MC4 type connectors are supplied with the unit. This solution saves you time, money and avoids any incompatibility issues.

At 60kW, the new Conext™ CL-60 String Inverter transforms a commercial rooftop or unused land into a profitable source of green, renewable energy. Durable, easy to install and service, with an industry-leading maximum efficiency of 98.9%, and designed from the ground up to maximize revenue. The Conext CL-60 is the smart business choice for commercial projects or utility-scale developers seeking a solar solution that generates the maximum power, while promoting grid stability.

See the Conext CL-60 at Renewable Energy India Expo on September 7-9 at booth #3.85 Hall 3, and at Solar Power International (SPI) on September 12-15 at booth 2533.

Additional resources:

View Conext CL-60 Data Sheet for technical specifications.

The post Top 5 advantages of the Conext CL-60 solar inverter appeared first on SE Solar.

Schneider Electric launched a PV Hybrid solution, developed in cooperation with DEIF, a global leader in diesel controllers. Stable and secure energy at lower cost with lower emissions, and strong revenue potential.

The PV Hybrid solution responds to a real and growing need in the market: from remote work sites to commercial institutions, there are many diesel-based power plants for primary and backup power, where the operators want to add PV power for its financial and environmental advantages.

Designed for grid-tied and off-grid power generation, the PV Hybrid solution combines efficient, reliable diesel generation with clean, low-cost solar power. This flexible solution enables operators to use energy intelligently—and it can be customized to build cost-effective hybrid power solutions that meet a range of needs.

Schneider Electric PV Hybrid solution is a combination of solar and diesel solution to ensure reliability to the grid while reducing overall carbon footprint. The combination of diesel and solar power maintains a stable, reliable power grid while reducing fuel dependency and limiting GHG emissions. In some applications, where permitted, operators will be able to earn revenue by selling surplus solar-generated power back to the grid.

Developed in cooperation with DEIF, this solution represents the best of both worlds: DEIF is renowned for advanced, efficient diesel power control systems, while Schneider Electric is known for innovation and excellence in solar power conversion. This flexible solution features Schneider Electric Conext™ CL inverters, with controllers transducers and accessories from DEIF.

Additional resources:

View Data Sheet for technical specifications.

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