Interview: Shantanu Sirsath
Technical Head India at Growatt New Energy
Growatt captured over 20 percent market share, particularly in the residential segment
February 29, 2024. By News Bureau
Que: In what ways has Growatt played a significant role in India’s energy transformation, particularly within the realm of solar energy?
Ans: Growatt has been instrumental in the installation of solar energy systems across the country. It has cultivated a strategic presence in the Indian market since its 2012 entry. Over twelve years, we have built a robust local team with over 60 employees and two service centers – a master facility in Hyderabad and a regional center in Ahmedabad – to ensure effective after-sales support.
Our commitment to technology and product advancement has also helped India’s energy transformation. For the past 7 years, Growatt has held the leading position in the Indian rooftop market, capturing over 20 percent market share, particularly in the residential segment. Recognizing the evolving landscape, we introduced the MAX 100KTL3-X LV and MAX 125KTL3-X LV models to target the C&I segment. The warmly received MAX 250KTL3-X HV and MAX 253KTL3-X HV models solidify our position in the utility segment. Plus, Growatt has been actively involved in capacity building and skills transfer in India’s solar industry.
Que: Growatt has a diverse product portfolio, including inverters and battery solutions. Can you highlight some of the key products and innovations that set Growatt apart from competitors?
Ans: Growatt offers tailored solar energy solutions to meet unique needs in the solar energy industry.
The NEO 2000M-X micro-inverter, distinguished by its ability to handle string currents of up to 15 A and an expansive input voltage range of 16-60V, seamlessly integrates with higher-watt peak modules. Boasting an IP67 rating for protection against dust and water, these micro-inverters not only offer shade tolerance but also exhibit characteristics such as low maintenance, a compact design, modularity, and intelligent panel-level monitoring. The NEO 2000M-X micro-inverters are a preferred choice for residential eco-friendly power needs, ensuring ease of installation.
The MID 30-50KTL3-X2 inverter series boasts an impressive 98.8 percent efficiency. With a 16A string current, compatibility with high-powered modules, and the inclusion of 3/4 MPPTs, it’s designed to be a perfect companion for green energy transformation.
For the commercial energy storage solution market, Growatt introduces the innovative WIT 50-100K HU/AU. This forward-thinking series is characterized by a built-in UPS, black start capability, 100 percent unbalanced output, and the ability to sustain 110 percent continuous AC overloading. Specifically designed to seamlessly integrate with the APX Commercial battery, the WIT series empowers businesses to achieve energy independence while maximizing their yields.
Que: What advantages do Growatt’s hybrid series of ‘battery-ready’ inverters offer to consumers, and how have they evolved?
Ans: Growatt’s MIN 2500-6000TL-XH inverters mark a significant leap forward in rooftop PV (Photovoltaic) systems. The series boasts a storage-ready capability. It can be used as an on-grid inverter and provides homeowners with an effortless transition to solar storage integration without additional retrofit costs. Featuring advanced solar power conversion technology, the MIN 2500-6000TL-XH series incorporates two MPP trackers and a 2 DC/AC ratio, efficiently managing solar power, including compatibility with bi-facial modules. With a string current of 13.5 A, it offers versatility and supports various monitoring options like WIFI, 4G, GPRS and RS485 for remote O&M. The inverter also stands out with its top cover design, reducing gaps and eliminating front cover screws for protection against water and dust. Crafted from aerospace-grade materials, it weighs approximately 10.8 kg — 35 percent lighter than previous models. Invisible cable routing and patented inductance technology optimize heat dissipation, ensuring the inverter’s resilience in harsh conditions.
Que: Can you share more details about the specific inverters used in the Supreme Industries project and their impact on efficiency and sustainability?
Ans: This 735 kW solar project was commissioned by installer Kalpa Power and powered by Growatt’s MAX and MAC series inverters. This system boasts an annual generation capacity of 13,03,260 kWh, a remarkable annual saving of 1,005 tonnes of CO2 – equivalent to planting 19,456 trees. The plant itself showcases a strategic blend of inverters: 5 MAX 125KTL3-X LV units paired with 1 MAC 60KTL3-X LV and 1 MAC 50KTL3-X LV. These MAX series excel in compatibility with high-powered and bi-facial modules with multiple MPPTs and a high DC/AC ratio. Supreme Industries’ success story underlines the invaluable role Growatt plays in empowering today’s dynamic industrial landscape.
Que: Can you provide more details on the upgrades and improvements introduced in the MAX Inverter series?
Ans: This upgraded model offers great efficiency and benefits. It boasts 8 MPPTs with a 45A input current capacity per MPPT (22.5A per string), facilitating seamless integration of higher-watt peak and bi-facial panels. Furthermore, the MAX 125KTL3-X2 LV inverter delivers a DC/AC ratio of up to 200 percent, contributing to a lower Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) for PV plants. Its broad MPPT range (180V to 1000V) enables longer operation time, maximizing solar energy harvesting throughout the day. Growatt prioritizes operational safety through Type II SPD on both DC and AC sides, a fuse-free design, an integrated DC switch, IP66 protection, optional AFCI 2.0 and built-in PID recovery.
Anticipating the needs of the Indian market, Growatt is set to launch the MAX 150KTL3-X LV C&I string inverter. This upcoming addition, featuring 10 MPPTs and 24 input compatibility, is poised to significantly lower the LCOE. It is designed to offer a greater degree of control and efficiency. Our product innovations and lineup will be displayed in the coming ‘Smarter E India’ on February 21-23.
please contact: contact@energetica-india.net.