pvMB 1/16/19: Updates on Enphase’s microinverter swap-out, LONGi becomes a Sunnova-approved vendor, Shell installs a solar+storage microgrid, and more!
In today’s pv magazine USA morning brief we take a look at Con Edison choosing Sunverge’s platform for its Smart Home Rate project, California ISO’s reliability coordination services gaining 32 new utility members and other quick hitters.
In case of hurricane, apply Enphase, tighten bolts and mind your wind codes!
FEMA’s recommendations for solar system hurricane preparedness focused on structural engineering, installation competence, plus simply tightening the bolts regularly, along with microinverters to mitigate individual panel damage.
Enphase sold out into 2019, with improved margins
Enphase’s 3rd quarter results saw revenues at $78 million with an estimated $10 million sales shortfall due to a component shortage, as the company shipped 204 MW of inverters. Future speculation saw an international play on the IQ8, the SunPower partnership, and energy storage driving growth.
Solar modules on the floor at Solar Power International 2018
pv magazine walked the floor at SPI 2018 seeing many well known faces, and known products, plus new names bringing new ideas.
25% tariffs on Chinese inverters to start on January 1
The final order from the U.S. Trade Representative includes an interim tariff rate of 10% set to start on September 24.
Flex to manufacture Enphase products in Mexico
The microinverter maker is shifting production to Mexico to avoid the pending Section 301 tariffs on inverters and other products from China.
Enphase boosts confidence, touts technology during analyst day
While the microinverter maker is still the target of an aggressive short, Roth Capital Partners has reiterated its “buy” at $6.50 per share, describing the IQ8 as a “game changer”.
Enphase finalizes purchase of SunPower mincroinverter business
The deal gives SunPower $25 million in cash and 7.5 million shares in Enphase. Enphase also gains access to SunPower microinverter IP, and rights to SunPower’s Equinox AC modules line.
Enphase within striking distance of profitability in Q2 results
The company has brought its operating margin to below -1%, as it fends off component shortages, short sellers and potential tariffs.
Mixed impact of proposed Section 301 tariffs on inverter makers
GTM Research says the 10% tariffs that the Trump Administration is calling for are “significant”, and some companies and sectors will be affected more than others.
