Global Microinverter and DC Optimizer Market to Surpass 5GW in 2017, a Fivefold Increase

BOSTON, Jan. 29, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Microinverters and DC optimizers (collectively known as module-level power electronics, or MLPE) comprise one of the newest and fastest-growing sectors in the solar industry. In a new report, The Microinverter and DC Optimizer Landscape 2014: The Evolution from Market Niche to Market Success, GTM Research forecasts global microinverter and DC optimizer shipments to surpass 5 gigawatts by 2017, up from 1.1 gigawatts in 2013.

FIGURE: Global MLPE Shipments (MW) by Technology, 2012-2017
(http://goo.gl/XIlX8o)
 
According to the report, 2014 marks a transition year as the MLPE category ends its first chapter, in which dozens of startups entered the market promising to increase energy yield, improve system reliability, and provide granular monitoring. By the end of 2013, many of these companies went dormant, bankrupt, or are undergoing significant restructuring, while three leaders emerged; Enphase Energy, SolarEdge Technologies, and Tigo Energy in a distant third. These three companies accounted for 88 percent of capacity shipped in 2013.

In the new chapter of MLPE described by GTM Research, the incumbent firms are executing new strategies to evolve beyond their initial base demand to stay ahead of a new group of well-funded competitors. The product value propositions are shifting to an entirely new set of more nuanced – and more valuable – areas, including installer operational throughput, design flexibility, and cost reduction in labor and electrical balance of systems. 
 
FIGURE: Module-Level Power Electronics Market Taxonomy
 (http://goo.gl/EtpfFu)
 
"The companies of four years ago would not recognize the companies of today," said report author Paul Grana.  "It isn't just that costs have come down dramatically – though that is true.  But more importantly, the companies of today sell a broader and much more compelling value proposition.  And that is why the sector has grown from a small niche to shipping more than a gigawatt per year."

In addition to the increased competition and sophistication among the MLPE suppliers, the promise of fully-integrated AC modules and smart modules are finally entering the market.  These products represent a dramatic strategic shift, as major module manufacturers are becoming players in the MLPE sector.  The success (or failure) of these module manufacturers at selling these value-added products will determine the winners and losers in the MLPE category over the next five years.

According to MJ Shiao, Director of Solar Research at GTM Research, "As the global industry focuses on balance of system costs, microinverters and DC optimizers represent a large, relatively untapped opportunity for installers and investors to reduce overall PV system and operational costs. We see shipments increasing fivefold and revenues from MLPE sales more than doubling by 2017 as markets like the U.S., UK, Germany, and Australia continue to embrace and expand use of microinverters and DC optimizers."

For more information on The Microinverter and DC Optimizer Landscape 2014: The Evolution from Market Niche to Market Success report, please visit http://www.greentechmedia.com/research/report/the-microinverter-and-dc-optimizer-landscape-2014

About GTM Research:

GTM Research, a division of Greentech Media, provides critical and timely market analysis in the form of research reports, data services, advisory services and strategic consulting. GTM Research's analysis also underpins Greentech Media's webinars and live events. Our coverage spans the green energy industry including solar power, grid modernization, energy storage, energy efficiency and wind power sectors.