The utility solar PV market is undergoing a significant transformation as demand grows around the world. With much of this growth driven by continued cost reductions, we are beginning to see a transition to 1,500 volt DC systems. Higher voltage systems minimize balance of systems requirments and contribute to lower overall PV system costs. Similar to the global switch from 600 volt to 1,000 volt PV systems that occured in 2012 and 2013, we expect the transition to occur rapidly as the supply chain scales and the value proposition is proven.
GTM Research expects 1,500 volt systems to make up 9.2 percent of PV installations over 1 megawatt in 2016, accounting for 4.6 gigawatts of demand.This new report describes the value proposition and cost implications for higher voltage PV systems as well as regulations and restrictions. This is the only available research that provides a detailed forecast by geography and outlines the supply chain and vendor landscape for the global 1,500 volt market.
Source:Green Technology
