Petra Solar Showcases the New SunWave Smart Energy Module (SEM)
The new SunWave™ SEM is a major breakthrough in smart grid renewable power generation systems and sets a new milestone for a more reliable future smart grid
(SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ, Oct. 13, 2010) – Petra Solar Inc., the world pioneer of smart pole mounted solar power systems, has showcased its newest, most innovative, and patent pending SunWave™ Smart Energy Module (SEM) as part of the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Solar Energy Grid Integration Systems “SEGIS II” final project review. Unlike conventional micro inverters, which primarily implement a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm and comply with the UL1741 grid-tie requirements, the new SunWave SEM incorporates many advanced smart grid and microgrid capabilities including smart-tie operation; low voltage ride through (LVRT); programmable voltage and frequency windows; islanding operation; reactive power (VAR) injection; and power derating. These new capabilities and advanced features were made possible through innovations in digital controls along with hierarchical communications and control strategies. With simple integration with a wide range of PV modules, the SEM forms the industry’s first and only complete microgrid ready AC module solution. The SEM is a proven, utility grade solution that has been deployed in volume.
The future smart grid requires intelligent and flexible photovoltaic inverters that can ensure grid availability and reliability. These inverters should have the capability to feed power to the grid during normal operation as well as support the grid during abnormal conditions. The new SunWave SEM incorporates the smart grid flexibility and functionality necessary to operate with and support the future smart utility grid.
In fulfilling the SEGIS vision, the new SEM provides support for islanding operation through voltage regulation and supports multiple modes of operation including stand-alone operation, where the SEM is isolated from the grid and not subject to UL1741; smart-tie operation, where the SEM is connected to the grid but can override UL1741 with proper host controller permission; and legacy-tie operation, where the SEM is connected to the grid and conforms to the UL1741 at point of common coupling (PCC).
“The new Smart Energy Module, or ‘SEM,’ is a major breakthrough in smart grid renewable power generation systems,” said Dr. Shihab Kuran, the company’s CEO and President. “By incorporating advanced microgrid capabilities such as smart-tie operation, islanding operation, and reactive power (VAR) injection, the new SEM sets a new milestone for a more reliable and more available future smart grid.”
“Through our partnership with the DOE, Petra Solar has embraced the DOE’s SEGIS vision to enhance grid stability with the next generation of Smart Energy Modules,” said Joe DeLuca, Vice President of Development and Product Management.
In addition to the new capabilities supported by the new SunWave SEMs, the SEM units feature many unique capabilities for utilities including bidirectional power processing, harmonics and arbitrary waveform generation, easy reconfiguration for various resources, e.g. PV, batteries, and smart loads, as well as advanced telemetry and remote management.
Petra Solar’s SEM is shipping into field trials with utilities world-wide now.
About Petra Solar:
Petra Solar, founded in 2006 by CEO and President, Dr. Kuran, is the pioneer of SunWave systems, a grid-tied, pole-mounted, distributed solar generation system. The SunWave system combines solar energy with smart-grid communications and electric grid enhancement functions to create a comprehensive utility grade solution for utilities. Investors have demonstrated confidence in Petra Solar, providing $54 million in private capital since 2007.
More information about Petra Solar can be found at www.petrasolar.com.
