Eaton Brings Leading Global Inverter Technology to Home Solar Systems

Date: October 17, 2011

PITTSBURGH … Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation today introduced the Eaton Single Phase Grid-Tied Solar Inverter (3.8-7kilowatts) at Solar Power International 2011 in Dallas, Texas. The design of Eaton’s solar inverters maximizes energy harvest and minimizes installation time and cost. The inverters feature an extremely high efficiency and a wide direct current (DC) voltage operating range. The Grid-Tied Solar Inverter will be on display, along with Eaton’s spectrum of solar solutions tailored to the needs of residential, commercial, institutional and utility sites, at booth #807.

These inverters are designed and tested to meet Underwriters Laboratories® (UL) 1741 standards, confirmed to operate at 97 percent efficiency by the California Energy Commission (CEC) and feature a unique transformerless design, which reduces the total weight, size and cost of the product when compared to competing models. Additionally, the unit’s minimized heat dissipation yields increased electronic integrity improving the life of the product. To simplify the design, a four-string DC combiner, DC disconnect switch, alternating current (AC) disconnect switch, and a wire raceway are integrated into the unit providing a cleaner final installation.

“Our single phase solar inverters bring the robust, reliable technology of Eaton’s commercial inverters to home solar systems,” said Jeremy Novotney, product manager, Residential Solar at Eaton. “They are also simple to install, use and maintain.”

The design simplifies service on the unit through a two-piece modular configuration which allows the wiring box to remain connected and mounted if the power module needs to be replaced.

Additionally, the unit’s broad voltage operating range (105-500vDC) contributes to superior performance in low light and high-temperature environments. Available field selectable voltage outputs (208/240/277vAC) enable versatile installation while the product’s vivid liquid crystal display (LCD) allows night-time monitoring.

Users can also connect the inverter to an external data logger via the unit’s RS-485 connection to enable software for graphical interface and third party monitoring. The Eaton Smart Energy Manager (ESEM) will also offer the ability to monitor the solar system using the ESEM monitor, providing a true smart energy solution for production and consumption. 

Eaton, a global leader in inverter technology, provides a complete balance of solar system solutions and is fully engaged in the sustainable energy market. Eaton’s Certified Contractor Network (ECCN) and power system engineering team helps customers connect solar power to the grid and provides national support and service infrastructure for improved maintenance and uptime. Additionally, extended warranties and service contracts are available for long-term maintenance requirements. For more information, visit www.eaton.com/solar.

Eaton’s electrical business is a global leader in power distribution, power quality, control and automation, power monitoring and energy management products and services. Eaton is positioned, through its Cutler-Hammer®, Moeller®, Powerware®,Holec®, MEM®, and Santak® global electrical product series, to answer today’s most critical electrical power management challenges.

Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2010 sales of $13.7 billion. Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2011, Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has approximately 73,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com.

Mark Horner

(412) 893-3590