miniture sine wave inverter [RE-wrenches]

[Phil Undercuffler]

I spoke at length some time ago with the good folks at Exeltech.  The
advantage of the AC module as they see it is that it eliminates the DC
disconnect and GFP issues of standard grid tied systems.  The inverters are
designed to string multiple AC modules on a single AC circuit; they believe
they can run about 8 150-200w modules on a single 12-2 conductor circuit.
Also, they believe they can get it listed to use UF cable as the wiring
method instead of current "esoteric" PV wiring methods.

The disadvantage of their approach is that UL considers attaching the
inverter to the module as part of the manufacturing process, so it must be
under strict UL control and blessing.  No field installable versions are
planned.  They don't know if they will try to buy modules and install
inverters themselves, or sell the inverters to certain certified/listed
assemblers, or what.  

Also, every new module/inverter combination must undergo the whole listing
process.  They had one instance where the module they were working with
changed the output spec by three watts, and they had to pay full pop to
re-list it.

Phil Undercuffler
Tech Services Manager, ext 238

Conergy, Inc. 

Our World is Full of Energy

888.396.6611 toll free
505.473.3800 phone
505.473.3830 fax
www.conergy.us


-----Original Message-----
From: Christopher Freitas --- OutBack Power 

I am actually glad to see someone offer a product to fill this "nitch".
Exeltech currently has very limited information on their website regarding
this - but the FAQ has the following statements in it:

I've got solar panels already. Can I purchase Exeltech PV AC Module
inverters and attach them to my existing solar panels?

No. Once again, safety regulations require that the Exeltech PV AC Module
inverters be attached to the PV module (solar panel)
by a UL-approved facility.

Will Exeltech PV AC Modules ever be sold separately?

No. They will not be sold separately to end-users. Exeltech PV AC Modules
will be sold as individual units only to
manufacturers, resellers, and others who are authorized by UL (or similar
Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory such as ETL,
TUV, and others) to attach the Exeltech PV AC Modules to the rear of PV
modules for resale to the general public.

This is unfortunate and will limit the success of this approach in my
opinion - in Europe the standards allow field installation and even
"plug-in" installations in some areas.

The ratings are 150 watts AC (I think) maximum and looks like they will
offer a 12vdc and a 24vdc version.  No info on the maximum DC input voltage
however.

Christopher Freitas
OutBack Power Systems
cfreitas at outbackpower.com


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