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The Intelligent Solar Ecosystem: How APsystems Blends AI with Data Security

Published in: Solar, Digital Blog

The Intelligent Solar Ecosystem: How APsystems Blends AI with Data Security image

As the renewable energy landscape continues its rapid evolution, APsystems has established itself as a global leader in Module-Level Power Electronics (MLPE) technology. With a sharp focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration, the company is redefining how solar energy is generated, stored, and managed, offering intelligent solutions that span from microinverters to comprehensive energy storage systems.

Founded in Silicon Valley in 2010, APsystems is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, marking a milestone of over 7 terawatt-hours of clean energy produced from its 6 GW of systems installed across more than 156 countries. All while ensuring robust data privacy that aligns with international standards like EN18001 and GDPR.

Here's an overview of how AI is shaping the APsystems innovation strategy.

Smarter Conversion: AI at the Module Level

APsystems microinverters, including the popular DS3, EZ1, and QT2 series, are designed to optimize energy conversion for each individual module. These devices are now enhanced with AI algorithms that enable:

  • Real-time performance monitoring.
  • Predictive maintenance.
  • Dynamic load balancing.

AI models analyze data from each panel to detect anomalies, maximize energy output, and reduce potential downtime. The QT2 three-phase microinverter, for example, leverages AI to adjust its power output based on real-time grid conditions and solar irradiance, making it ideal for commercial and industrial applications.

Intelligent Battery Management with APstorage

The APstorage ELS/ELT series works seamlessly with APsystems microinverters, and AI plays a critical role in its management. The BESS AI model, a deep learning algorithm, analyzes historical solar production and consumption patterns to create custom charge and discharge strategies.

This AI considers regional electricity pricing, especially in markets with time-of-use or dynamic tariffs, to achieve the right goal at the right time:

  • Saving excess PV energy.
  • Charging the battery during off-peak pricing periods.
  • Maximizing feed-in revenue by discharging to the grid during peak hours.

This AI Mode requires no additional hardware and can be activated directly by the system owner through the EMA app. It helps users save costs and potentially generate additional income, all while factoring in long-term battery health by avoiding unnecessary charge cycles.

AI-Powered Tools for Design and Support

APsystems extends its AI integration beyond hardware to streamline the entire solar lifecycle.

  • AP Designer: This AI-powered design tool uses satellite imagery, 3D modeling, and image recognition for advanced rooftop and shading analysis. It significantly reduces design time, improves accuracy, and automates the generation of bills of materials (BOM) and simulation reports.
  • APbot: Currently in its testing phase, this AI assistant will transform technical customer support. Powered by large language models, APbot will provide instant answers to installation queries, offer troubleshooting support, and handle post-sales assistance, ensuring a smoother customer journey. It is planned for a worldwide deployment before the end of this year.

A Commitment to Data Privacy and Security

As its digital ecosystem expands, APsystems has made data privacy and security foundational pillars of its strategy. The company adheres to EN18001 principles for information security, as well as GDPR and other global data protection regulations.

Key security measures include:

  • Minimal Data Collection: Only necessary personal data is collected for service provision, such as system monitoring and customer support.
  • Secure Storage: All user data is stored on Amazon Web Services (AWS) servers in Europe, complying with EU data residency requirements.
  • Robust Encryption: Measures include end-to-end encryption of sensitive data, anonymization of stored information, and secure access protocols.
  • Controlled Access: Personal data is not shared with third parties unless required by law, authorized by the user, or necessary for service provision (e.g., with installers). The APsystems API is governed by strict licensing terms, including Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) for international data transfers.

Product Spotlight: The APsystems QS2 Microinverter

Engineered for modern photovoltaic systems using high-power modules, the QS2 microinverter delivers a new level of power, precision, and performance.

  • Quad-Input Power: The QS2 is a single-phase device that supports four high-power PV modules simultaneously, delivering a total output of 2200 VA. This reduces the number of inverters needed, lowering hardware and labor costs.
  • Independent MPPT: Each of the four input channels has its own Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT), allowing the QS2 to optimize the output of each panel independently. This ensures maximum energy harvest, even with partial shading or mismatched panels.
  • Encrypted Wireless Communication: It uses Zigbee mesh networking for faster, more stable, and encrypted wireless communication compared to traditional Power Line Communication (PLC).
  • Advanced Safety: Safety features include low DC input voltage (lt;60V) to reduce risks, an integrated safety relay for rapid shutdown compliance, and multiple grounding options.
  • Rugged Design: The QS2 is built to last with an IP67-rated dust-tight and waterproof enclosure and fully encapsulated electronics to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
  • Availability: Certified for major European countries, including the UK, the QS2 is expected to be available in Q4 of this year. It comes with a 12-year standard warranty, extendable up to 25 years.

By embedding AI across its entire product line and ensuring robust data protection, APsystems is setting a new standard for a smarter, safer energy future.

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