Are you ready for the biggest shift happening in utility-scale solar right now?
The transition from central to string inverters is revolutionizing how we build and operate massive solar farms across America. In this eye-opening episode, Luke Schlichte, Utility Sales Representative at CPS America (Chint Power Systems), breaks down why this technological shift is happening and what it means for the future of utility solar.
Luke reveals the stark reality of underperformance plaguing utility-scale solar in the US, where some 200MW projects have experienced as low as 14% uptime after their first year. The culprit? Central inverters creating catastrophic single points of failure that can take entire megawatt blocks offline for weeks or even months at a time.
Key topics covered in this episode:
Why string inverters eliminate catastrophic downtime risks
The financial impact of inverter choice on long-term asset performance
How CPS's 350kW string inverter (the world's most powerful) is changing the game
Distributed vs. skidded design approaches for utility solar
Maintenance and servicing advantages that save time and money
Why specialized technician shortages make string inverters essential
Real-world case studies of projects switching from central to string
Luke explains how modern high-power string inverters like CPS's 350kW unit offer the modularity benefits of string technology while matching the economics of central inverters. With features like 15 MPPTs per inverter and full power output up to 45°C, these aren't your typical rooftop string inverters.
Whether you're an asset owner, EPC contractor, or anyone involved in utility-scale solar development, this episode provides crucial insights into technology choices that can make or break project profitability. Luke shares how CPS's unique approach of studying returned inverters in their labs drives continuous innovation and why they view themselves as partners for the entire project lifecycle.
Don't miss this deep dive into the technology revolution that's reshaping how we build gigawatt-scale solar farms. Hit play now to discover why the future of utility solar is decidedly string-powered.
Connect with Luke Schlichte
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-schlichte-315931125
Website: https://www.chintpowersystems.com/
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The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 10GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 350kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. CPS America has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. Learn more at https://www.chintpowersystems.com/
00:00 Introduction
02:26 Guest Introduction: Luke Schlechty
02:41 The Shift from Central to String Inverters
04:03 Advantages of String Inverters
07:14 Design Approaches: Distributed vs. Skidded
09:25 Financial Impact of Inverter Choices
14:15 Innovations in String Inverters
16:58 Maintenance and Servicing Differences
19:05 Case Study: Apex Solar Project
20:01 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
