Case Studies
The Boost Platform is poised to create higher yields and achieve maximum returns for solar asset owners in the US and beyond.
Customers are moving very rapidly from a small proof-of-concept to large product deployment because the problems are universal, alternative solutions are absent, and the payback is very quick.
Yield improvements with the Boost Platform have already been confirmed at multiple test sites.
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Large Independent Power Producer (IPP)
Underperformance/Repowering
Payback: <3 Years
Problems:
- Uneven terrain/string imbalance
- Inadequate monitoring information
- Multiple maintenance issues
- Broken panels not replaceable due to electrical incompatibility
Solution:
- BOOST Platform corrects string imbalance
- Replace damaged panels, use BOOST Platform to overcome incompatibility
- Provide high resolution monitoring and machine learning diagnostics
Impact:
- 7% energy production improvement through string imbalance correction
- 3-5% energy production improvement through replacing broken panels
- 13% revenue improvement through situational awareness provided by monitoring
- 32% internal rate of return (IRR) on string imbalance correction alone
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Major Solar Asset Owner – 27 MW DC Solar Site in CA Central Valley
Voltage Collapse
Payback: 1 Year
Problems:
- Higher than nominal grid voltage requirements
- Aging panels with low voltage levels
- Underperforming inverters
- High temperatures
- Voltage collapse causing 17% energy loss and 19% revenue loss
Solution:
- BOOST Platform increases string voltage
- BOOST Platform maximizes energy production
- Replace damaged panels, use BOOST Platform to overcome incompatibility
Impact:
- Increased and maintained string voltage to improve production
- Energy production improvement through replacing broken panels
- 43% internal rate of return (IRR)
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Large rice processing plant with distributed generation site
Inverter Replacement
Payback: <1 Year
Problems:
- Failed 600 Volt inverters with no ‘like’ replacements available
- Replacement 1000 Volt inverters incompatible as they require higher string voltage
- String upgrade expensive
- Inadequate monitoring information
Solution:
- BOOST Platform raises operating voltage to be compatible with new inverters
- Replace 600 V inverters with 1000 V inverters
- Restringing not required
- Provide high resolution monitoring and machine learning diagnostics
Impact:
- Energy production improvement through inverter replacement
- Revenue improvement through situational awareness provided by monitoring
- 32% internal rate of return (IRR) on string imbalance correction alone
- Revenue improvement through situational awareness provided by monitoring
CONNECT AND COLLECT
BOOST Platform includes precise string level monitoring that provides uninterrupted, granular, string-level data.
ANALYZE
Solarlytics AI cloud engine utilizes machine learning to analyze the data from the string level monitoring system and provide the precise location of shading, damage, varying voltages, and more to continuously improve PV system performance. The data output can be monitored in real-time from any computer or mobile device.
ACT
Specific, predictive maintenance intel lowers O&M costs and increases PV plant yield.