Enphase introduces new IQ 7 microinverters, almost 50% lighter than previous model

Enphase is continuing to drive microinverter adoption in Australia with its latest generation being introduced this week. The IQ 7 microinverters can be used with 195 – 300 W modules in the standard product and between 235 – 400 W in the IQ 7+ model.

The IQ 7 will replace the S-Series, the S270 being the previous available model, which represented the fifth generation of the Enphase microinverter platform.

Shipments of the IQ 7 began in the U.S. in Q1 2018. The move to the IQ 6 and IQ 7 microinverter units has been attributed to Enphase’s substantial reduction in financial losses in 2018.

The U.S.-based company says that the IQ 7 is the most efficient microinverter on the market at 96.5%, while being significantly lighter – and with lighter cabling – than the previous model. It weighs 1.08kg.

“The IQ platform is ideal for these solar markets [Australia and New Zealand] as it delivers larger system sizes on a smaller footprint thanks to its increased efficiency, creating further value for our customers,” said Nathan Dunn, general manager, Enphase Energy Asia Pacific in a statement.

Enphase claims that the IQ 7 is suitable for both 60 and 72-cell modules. It expects to introduce the IQ 7X Micro to the Australian market in Q4 2018, which can be used on very-large 96-cell modules.

The company says the new IQ 7 microinverters can be retrofitted to existing S or M-Series arrays. The new generation will integrate directly into the Envoy S communications gateway.