APsystems upgrades EMA monitoring website with more data and improved interface

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEATTLE, JIAXING, LYON– APsystems today announced the launch of a new, redesigned version of its Energy Monitoring & Analysis (EMA) website APsystemsEMA.com.

The web-based platform, available for free on any connected device, monitors and reports module-level energy production of solar arrays which utilize APsystems inverters and provides that information to homeowners and end users in a convenient and user-friendly format.

emaThe site also enables APsystems-registered solar installers and contractors to lower their maintenance costs by creating and managing their customers’ PV installation accounts remotely. Key features of the new EMA site include a more attractive design and a more engaging user experience with an enhanced system dashboard, system management tools and improved reporting functions.

The new EMA website is active and available now, the result of a seamless transition from the previous site to the new interface. The added functionality addresses the high demand for detailed data and enhanced capability in a more user-friendly experience for the growing and competitive solar industry.

“We are excited to re-launch our very popular EMA website.” said Wesley Tong, APsystems chief marketing officer. “The site already hosts tens of thousands of homeowners and end users all over the world who view their APsystems solar array performance online and through the APsystems EMA App. These new design improvements now give them an even more in-depth view of their system energy production, improved reporting and additional historical data in a clean, comprehensive and dynamic user interface.”

Users can view their solar array performance using the same URL and log-in information as before at APsystemsEMA.com, through the APsystems EMA App or by visiting the APsystems website at APsystems.com and clicking “EMA Login” at the top right portion of the homepage.

 

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APsystems introduces YC500i microinverter with EnergyMax™ designed for high-output PV modules

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEATTLE – APsystems extends its advanced microinverter line with the new YC500i with EnergyMax™ power handling and integrated ground, now available in North America.

EnergyMax™ technology allows the dual-module unit to produce 274 watts peak output per side (548W total), an almost 10 percent increase in peak power output over conventional microinverters to harvest the power of today’s high-output PV modules.

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“The new generation of solar modules demand a microinverter built to handle dramatic increases in power and output,” said Andrew Nichols, senior vice president of sales, APsystems USA. “With EnergyMax™ technology, we’re able to match the advances in module output capacity and offer higher rates of energy production to customers.”

The YC500i microinverter builds on the same advanced, FPGA chip-based platform as the popular YC500A flagship model. EnergyMax™ technology developed by APsystems maximizes the inverter’s power output for higher energy harvest across the solar array.

The YC500i utilizes a trunk cable, offering installers an alternative to the daisy-chain design of APsystems YC500A microinverters. This provides a solution for installers who favor trunk cable architecture as well as markets where regulatory bodies prefer an integrated ground.

apsystems-YC500I-1-768x512APsystems customers with a cabling preference can now choose—daisy-chain connection with the YC500A or trunk cable connection with the new YC500i with EnergyMax™.

“APsystems has always endeavored to provide flexibility and choice to our installers,” said Chris Barrett, director of engineering and technical services. “Some of our installers have experience utilizing a trunk cable architecture and the YC500i gives them that option in addition to our very popular daisy chain design.”

The YC500i is now available for order through APsystems U.S. distribution channels. Email sales@APsystems.com for ordering information.

Information on the complete APsystems solar microinverter line can be found at www.APsystems.com.

APsystems builds up EMEA sales and support team

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APsystems has solidified its strong market position in the Europe, Middle East a region with key appointments in sales and support.

Cathia Younsi has been named Sales Regional Director Western/South, expanding the APsystems footprint in residential and commercial segments with specific focus on the France, Switzerland, Italy and Portugal markets. She brings over 15 years of sales management experience in global energy and industrial groups including Engie, Suez and Siemens before joining the solar industry with Unisolar other leaders of the industry.

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Aymeric Chollet joins as Sales Manager Western, to focus on channel development with T1 installers in France and Switzerland. Jean Christophe Homar, bringing senior technical sales expertise from 20 years at Schneider Electric, remains Sales Manager Middle East/Africa, focusing on opportunities in South Africa, Morocco, Turkey and Jordan.

Reda Kaismoune has been named Product Trainer West/South and regional technical advisor. Kaismoune brings strong training program design and delivery experience from solar companies such as Sunpower corporation, where he spent seven years.

Chris Pitts starts as Sales Manager Benelux and UK. Chris comes from Bosch Inverter where he was UK Sales Manager for the solar division.

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“Under the leadership of Olivier Jacques, Senior VP and MD for the EMEA region, our team will continue to build to cover the dynamic EMEA region and bring top class expertise for APsystems in the market,” said Maxime Boiron, senior marketing director for the APsystems EMEA regions “We are establishing a sustainable organization in the EMEA region and have currently several open positions in customer support, training and sales to provide our growing customer base the best possible services.”

APsystems EMEA maintains offices in Rotterdam, Netherlands, and in Lyon, France.

APsystems microinverter line joins Mosaic solar financing platform

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEATTLE – APsystems microinverters have been added to the dynamic Mosaic solar financing platform, pairing two leading innovators in the global solar industry. The agreement brings APsystems advanced microinverter products to the nation’s leading residential solar lending platform, extending the line’s market reach as Mosaic helps homeowners benefit from clean energy by owning their own solar systems.

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“It’s rare to find two companies so thoroughly committed to market innovation, so this arrangement is a natural fit,” said Andrew Nichols, senior vice president of sales, APsystems USA. “Mosaic adding APsystems to its approved vendor list brings outstanding new value to installers and customers of both companies.”

Founded in 2011 in Oakland, Calif., Mosaic offers a dynamic, no-money-down loan program for consumer-level solar financing. The company has been honored by Fast Company as a Top Ten Most Innovative Company in Energy for two consecutive years. It is a U.S. Department of Energy SunShot award recipient, a Sierra Club Trailblazer Company of the year, and was the Sustainability category winner of Verizon’s Powerful Answers Award.

“As the leader in solar marketplace lending, we’re committed to bringing the best value to our consumers in both financing and products,” said James Robinson, Mosaic vice president of marketing. “APsystems is all about value, with high-quality microinverter products that will satisfy installers and end users alike.”

APsystems was founded in Silicon Valley in 2009, and is the 2nd largest manufacturer of microinverters and the third largest provider of MLPE systems in the world. APsystems leads the multi-module microinverter market with the YC500, its flagship dual-module microinverter, and the highly popular YC1000 true 3-phase 480V or 208V, four-module microinverter designed for commercial applications.

APsystems microinverters are built around smart, FPGA-chip topologies, allowing the company to manufacture and market its product line highly efficiently and at installer and consumer-friendly price points. Because the FPGA chip does so much of the work, APsystems microinverters have about 30 percent fewer components than competing brands, leading to higher reliability and lower costs at every point in the production and distribution chain.

 

For more information on Mosaic solar financing, see http://joinmosaic.com.
Information on APsystems solar microinverter products can be found at www.APsystems.com.

 

 

APsystems welcomed into CALSEIA, nation’s largest solar trade association

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APsystems, a global leader in solar microinverter technology, has joined the nation’s largest state solar power trade group, the California Solar Energy Industries Association (CALSEIA).
apsystems-calseiaAPsystems earned CALSEIA certification after being carefully vetted and approved through the association’s application process, which ensures member companies adhere to industry best practices.
“We are proud to have APsystems join CALSEIA to support its mission of expanding the use of clean, solar technologies throughout the state,” said Bernadette Del Chiaro, Executive Director of CALSEIA. “CALSEIA members are recognized as being true leaders in the California market as they promote high standards within the industry and advocate fair policies for solar consumers. We look forward to working closely with APsystems in continuing this work.”
APsystems was founded in California’s Silicon Valley in 2009, and maintains a strong market position in the state with its advanced microinverter line available through leading California distributors.
California solar projects and their installers have twice earned APsystems “Project of the Year” recognition: the Bauer agricultural installation in Los Molinos (RR Lane Solar Distributing, 2014) and the Fort Washington Country Club in Fresno (Valley Unique Electric/Solar Universe, 2015).
“California is a special solar market for us, and we’re honored to be welcomed into the CALSEIA membership,” said Jason Higginson, Director of Marketing, APsystems USA. “The state’s solar industry will continue to thrive thanks to the work of this strong trade association and its members.”

Nichols Joins APsystems as Senior VP, USA Sales

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEATTLE – Solar industry veteran Andrew Nichols has joined APsystems as Senior Vice President of Sales, USA.

apsystems-andrew-nicolsAndrew comes to APsystems with over 30 years in high technology and alternative energy sales. He most recently served as Vice President of Worldwide Sales for SolarBridge Technologies through its successful acquisition by SunPower Corporation.

Prior to this he served as Vice President of Sales and Customer Support for Enphase Energy, as it went from zero revenue to over $200 million in annual sales and an eventual IPO.

He also ran North American Renewable Energy Sales for Xantrex Technology (acquired by Schneider Electric). He began his career at IBM/ROLM and held positions of increasing responsibility at Apple before committing the last 11-plus years to the renewable energy industry.

He holds a BA in social sciences from the University of California, Berkeley.

“APsystems is the emergent front-runner in solar microinverter technology, and I’m honored to join their team,” Nichols said.

“Their commitment to innovation in module-level electronics is really showing the way forward in this fast-growing segment.”

Andrew Lonseth, APsystems president for U.S. operations, said Nichols’ broad experience in renewable energy brings both strategic and customer-facing value.

“Andrew Nichols knows the domestic and international solar market like few others,” Lonseth said. “Bringing his expertise into play as we grow our product portfolio and market share will serve both APsystems and our customers very well.”

Since its founding in Silicon Valley in 2009, APsystems has emerged as an industry leader through innovative solar products including dual-module microinverters and the first true 3-phase, four-module unit.

APsystems ranked no. 2 in global market share among microinverter suppliers by shipments in 2014 (source: GTM Research).

APsystems USA has offices in Cupertino, Calif., and Seattle, with manufacturing in Washington state.

Olivier Jacques to lead APsystems Europe, Middle East and Africa operations

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Olivier Jacques has joined APsystems as Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Europe, Middle East and Africa. He is based in Lyon, France.

Jacques brings more than 20 years of experience in construction, industrial and high-tech industries. Prior to joining APsystems, he served as Managing Director EMEA for Enphase Energy. There, he developed the microinverter market in Europe from scratch, achieving leading share positions in key European solar regions.

7285e9b5-5431-4cdc-9d18-74b6c5fc9714“European, Middle Eastern and African solar markets open up to APsystems with the addition of Olivier Jacques,” said Dr. Zhi-Min Ling. “His solar industry leadership in these key territories is unmatched, and enhances our position as a global leader in renewable energy technologies.”

APsystems ranked no. 2 in global market share among microinverter suppliers by shipments in 2014 (source: GTM Research, Smart and AC PV Modules 2015 – 2020).

“I am very excited to join APsystems in such a key development phase globally,” Jacques said. “The company is now increasing its presence in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and I am absolutely convinced that AP systems’ portfolio strategy will bring outstanding value to solar professionals in these regions, especially given the current energy management market trends dynamic.”

Jacques previously served as managing director for several international concerns including Norgren (IMI group), a leading industrial automation and fluid control company, where he spurred growth despite an economic recession.

As France Managing Director and HVAC-R Southern Europe Director at Danfoss Drives, he increased revenues, created sales channels, launched a new product platform and repositioned the company as a value-added solutions provider.

He has also held senior executive positions at major companies ranging from WATTS Industries (fluid control and HVAC), Schlumberger (water, gas and thermal energy) and Samsung Electronics (launching of the HVAC business).

Global solar technology leader APS rebrands as APsystems

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SEATTLE – APS, a global leader in solar technology, is now APsystems.

The brand refinement highlights the company’s commitment to powerful alternative energy solutions, and its evolution from a product-oriented portfolio to a whole-systems innovator.

The phrase “Altenergy Power,” a nod to the company’s original legal name, will appear beneath APsystems in the company’s new mark.

“We’ve been asked at times what ‘APS’ stood for, and it was a trade name we fell into largely for simplicity,” said Kelly Samson, APsystems CEO, U.S. operations. “As our company has become prominent in the marketplace, and our range of offerings expands, we want to make our commitment to alternative energy and advanced power systems more explicit. APsystems is who we are and what we’re about.”

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The new positioning follows the company’s strong growth and industry recognition in the U.S. and international solar markets over the past two years.

APsystems is headquartered in Seattle, USA, and Jiaxing, China, with regional offices in Europe and Australia.

The company was founded in Silicon Valley in 2009 with a single product offering, a first-generation microinverter.

An ongoing commitment to research and development, engineering and technology innovation has created a robust module-level power electronics (MLPE) solutions portfolio. The company’s technology is also featured in integrated PV solutions by other solar industry leaders.

More than half of the APsystems workforce is involved in R&D engineering, underscoring the focus on constant product advancement and innovation.

The company’s flagship product, the YC500 microinverter, broke ground among MLPE offerings as the most powerful unit to handle two solar modules simultaneously, simplifying PV system design and significantly lowering installation costs on a per-watt basis.

More recently, the YC1000 microinverter entered the solar market as an innovative, purpose-designed unit for commercial applications. The fourth-generation technology offers true 3-phase (balanced AC) output and handles up to four modules per unit, bringing microinverter technology to the untapped commercial segment for the first time.

The microinverters have been successfully deployed on five continents.

“We’ve been very successful providing an alternative to conventional ‘string’ power inversion, moving the market toward microinverters as the standard for residential and small-scale commercial solar applications,” said Andrew Lonseth, APsystems president, U.S. operations. “As we expand our systems portfolio, we will continue to bring new and innovative technology offerings to the alternative energy market.”

APsystems products are designed around a flexible and powerful Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) integrated circuit, giving the company a significant competitive advantage in design, manufacturing, reliability and cost effectiveness.

The company’s microinverter line is programmable to any grid standard anywhere in the world, and is backed by industry-leading warranties and support.

See APsystems.com for information on the company’s worldwide operations, or usa.APsystems.com for the North American market.

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APsystems is a worldwide leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of alternative energy solutions based on its own proven, leading-edge technology. APsystems is headquartered in Seattle, USA, and Jiaxing, China, with regional offices in Europe and Australia.

A letter to our solar partners: APS becomes APsystems

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It’s been just six years since APS was a Silicon Valley startup – and how far we’ve come in that short time. Founded with the goal of bringing the most advanced microinverter technology to the solar PV market, we’ve passed one milestone after another en route to ranking no. 2 in global market share among top microinverter suppliers by shipments in 2013 (source: GTM Research). Last year was even stronger still.

And we’re not slowing down – demand for our microinverter line is growing month over month in all markets. As we look toward even greater achievements on the horizon, we’re pausing just long enough to reflect on who we are and what we’re about.

With that reflection comes a refinement of our brand: APS will become APsystems.

The new trade name highlights our commitment to powerful alternative energy solutions, and our evolution from a product-oriented portfolio to a whole-systems innovator. The phrase “Altenergy Power,” a nod to the company’s original legal name, will appear beneath APsystems in our new mark.

The new name will launch August 31st. With the brand refinement, we’re also launching a new website, apsystems.com, an online nexus for our worldwide operations with links to offices in each regional market. We hope you’ll visit the site and see the APsystems big picture.

What’s next? Big things. We’re making a strong push into new markets worldwide, and rolling out even more powerful solutions to accommodate new and emerging technologies. Expect more announcements throughout the coming year.

Our name has changed, but our values are the same. We remain passionate about solar power and advancing our clean, renewable energy future. We offer maximum value to customers through excellence of products, pricing and support. Honesty, professionalism and teamwork define our company. Add them up, and we believe an informed customer will always choose APsystems.

We’re excited about this moment, and we want to share the news with our valued solar partners like you. We look forward to a bright future together.

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Kindest regards,

Andrew Lonseth
President, U.S. Operations

Inc. 500/5000-honored solar distributor SimpleRay adds APS microinverter line

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apsystems-simpleraySEATTLE – Three-time Inc. 5000-honored solar distributor SimpleRay has added the APS microinverter line to its product offerings.

Driven by the maxim “We simplify solar,” SimpleRay offers a full range of solar products and services including PV system design (grid tied and battery based), end-to-end project management, and financing.

The St. Paul, Minn.-based company (www.simpleray.com) is a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree, and has ranked No. 318 on the Inc. 500 list of fastest-growing private companies in the USA. It ranked No. 12 among top renewable energy companies as determined by Inc. Magazine, and fifth among all companies in its home state.

SimpleRay was founded by Geoff Stenrick in 2007, with the goal of giving solar installers a better distribution experience. The company serves small and mid-sized installers throughout the Midwest, offering product and system-design expertise and a consultative sales approach.

“We want to make sure we have the best products on hand to match each installer’s projects,” said Stenrick, SimpleRay president and CEO. “APS fits in well with our philosophy by offering low-cost, well established microinverters. They’re easy to design with, and fit our customers’ needs well. They’re a great fit for us overall.”

Thomas Nelson, APS vice president of sales, USA, hailed the extension of the APS brand in the Great Lakes region in a year of strong installer demand nationwide.

“SimpleRay has built their business by providing very high quality service to installers,” Nelson said. “That’s an outstanding match for APS and our own focus on providing the best products and top value for our installation partners.”

APS is currently offering A+ Rewards, an industry-best rebate program for installers. The program offers up to $15 back per microinverter purchased from participating distributors through Sept. 30, 2015, with additional incentives for first-time installers; see www.apsamerica.com for details.

APS flagship products include the YC500, a powerful dual-module microinverter, and the YC1000 true 3-phase unit, purpose-designed for commercial applications and offering an unprecedented 1:4 microinverter-to-module ratio to lower system costs.

Both units will be offered by SimpleRay through its distribution channels.

APS was founded in Silicon Valley in 2009, and is now a global leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of microinverters based on their own proven, leading-edge solar technology. APS’ USA operations are based in Seattle.

APS ranked No. 2 in global market share among top microinverter suppliers by shipment in 2013 (source: GTM Research).

For information on SimpleRay solar distribution, see www.simpleray.com.