Shoals and Ampt awarded IEC and UL certification for module-level DC/DC optimizer

USA: Shoals Technologies Group  and Ampt, LLC announced certification of a module-level DC/DC optimizer compatible with the MultiLink Junction Box. Now certified by two of the photovoltaic (PV) industry's leading testing bodies -- the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) -- these DC/DC optimizers in conjunction with Shoals' MultiLink junction boxes are ready to ship for use in commercial and utility scale PV systems.

The UL and IEC certified optimizer uses Ampt's innovative module-level DC/DC power converter. The optimizer connects with Shoals' MultiLink Junction Box to allow a PV module manufacturer to use PV modules powered by Ampt. Ampt's converters lower the PV system costs associated with deployment, balance of system (BOS) and operations and maintenance (O&M), as well as maximize the power generation of every solar module, significantly reducing the levelized cost of energy (LCOE).

"The MultiLink junction box system, truly the 'USB' port for PV modules, has the only universal interface compatible with accessory modules featuring electronics from leading PV electronics manufacturers like Ampt," said Shoals president and CEO Dean Solon.

"PV module companies get their modules certified with the MultiLink junction box and then have the option to connect Ampt's DC/DC converter in the factory or let system integrators plug-and-play in the field. In partnership with Ampt, our customers reap the benefits of collaborative innovation, giving them elite technology that lowers system cost for a distinct competitive advantage."

The DC/DC optimizer powered by Ampt includes patented Ampt Mode and String Stretch technology to lower the cost and increase the efficiency of PV inverters, a key differentiator that in turn lowers the total cost of PV systems. In addition, Ampt increases the lifetime energy output of PV systems with optional communication in each PV module to recapture mismatch losses between modules and strings, as well as enabling the overall system to operate more efficiently than a conventional solar array.